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Thailand's Visa-Free Policy Draws Record Tourist Numbers from Taiwan, India Picture courtesy: Positioning Thailand anticipates a record influx of tourists from Taiwan and India this year, thanks to its recent visa-free policy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333790-thailands-visa-free-policy-draws-record-tourist-numbers-from-taiwan-india/

Thailand anticipates a record influx of tourists from Taiwan and India this year, thanks to its recent visa-free policy. The visa exemption, initiated in late 2023, now allows Taiwanese and Indian tourists an extended stay of 60 days in Thailand, lasting until November 11. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has revealed plans for a reciprocal annual visa-exemption programme with Taiwan and India, set to launch shortly. TAT Taipei office director Sarima Chindamat expressed optimism, estimating Taiwanese visitor numbers could reach one million this year, surpassing the base-case scenario of 700,000. This would exceed the 2019 visitor count of 781,674. "During the first half of 2024, the visa policy resulted in 533,000 Taiwanese visitors, a 34% increase compared to the same period in 2019, which saw 396,000 arrivals," Chindamat stated. An estimated 18 million Taiwanese are expected to travel abroad this year, surpassing the 17 million who did so in 2019. Popular destinations for Taiwanese tourists include Thailand, Japan, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Vietnam. Chindamat noted lucrative market segments such as LGBTQ tourists, active seniors, families, young people, and golfers, with average spending per Taiwanese visitor around 40,000 Baht (US$1,100) per trip. Flight capacity between Taiwan and Thailand has returned to 2019 levels, offering 1.5 million seats. TAT aims to draw over two million Indian tourists this year, supported by a subsidy for Indian meeting and incentive groups visiting during the low season from July to September. TAT Mumbai office director Isada Saovaros reported that tour operators receive 200 Indian Rupees (86 Baht or US$2) per guest for groups of 100 to 1,000 guests staying over four days and three nights. "In the first half of the year, Thailand welcomed 1.04 million Indian tourists, with average spending of 38,000 Baht (US$1,000) per trip," Saovaros added. With an expected 29 million trips by Indian tourists by 2025, TAT New Delhi office offers a similar incentive programme for meeting groups exceeding 100 participants. Siriges-a-nong Trirattanasongpol, TAT New Delhi office director, estimated flight capacity for Indian travellers this year to recover to 90% of 2019 levels. "Besides major destinations like Bangkok and Phuket, we encourage airlines to consider new routes to Krabi and Chiang Mai," she added, targeting Indian tourists from second-tier cities. As Thailand enhances its tourist attractions and accessibility, it aims to solidify its position as a premier travel destination in Asia. Picture courtesy: Positioning -- 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 25 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333788-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-25-july-2024/

The Constitutional Court announced it will decide on a case to strip Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of his status on August 14. The case involves securing a ministerial position for a colleague. A petition, filed by 40 former senators, argues that Srettha should have known Mr. Phichit was unqualified to be a minister due to a six-month jail sentence for contempt of court. Mr. Phichit resigned shortly after the petition was filed. The Court also stated that Srettha has until July 31 to submit his written closing statement. The Chinese Ambassador Han Zhiqiang yesterday assured Bangkok authorities that Beijing supports cracking down on shady Chinese businesses in Thailand, and aims to boost bilateral trade and relations. Han noted that over 2,400 Chinese companies operate here, mainly in manufacturing and construction, with about 14 hundred under Board of Investment status. Around the region. Typhoon Gaemi slammed into the eastern coast of Taiwan overnight bringing fierce winds and heavy rain in what was forecast to be the most powerful storm to hit the island in eight years. Early reports say At least 3 people have been killed and hundreds injured. Schools and businesses were shut, more than 500 flights were canceled and military drills were scrapped. At least 13 people lost their lives in the Philippines yesterday due to the typhoon,, forcing authorities to shut schools, offices, cancel flights and declare a state of calamity. Video showed people wading in water up to their chests, Nepal, Eighteen people were killed when a small Saurya Airlines passenger plane crashed and caught fire while taking off from the capital Kathmandu. The planes captain was the only survivor. The plane, carrying two crew members and 17 technicians had been due to arrive at a new airport for regular maintenance. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Thunderstorms 31C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy with showers 31 Pattaya: cloudy with showers 30 Phuket and the south: Thundershowers 31 Hua Hin: Cloudy with isolated light showers 30 Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-07-25 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fire at Pathum Thani warehouse spreads to seven others by Nattapong Westwood Fire at Pathum Thani warehouse spreads to seven others. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A fire broke out at a furniture manufacturing company’s warehouse, spreading to seven adjacent warehouses. The incident, occurring yesterday, is suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit as workers had left for the day. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333785-fire-at-pathum-thani-warehouse-spreads-to-seven-others/

A fire broke out at a furniture manufacturing company’s warehouse, spreading to seven adjacent warehouses. The incident, occurring yesterday, is suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit as workers had left for the day. Police Lieutenant Thassana Udomporn from Lam Luk Ka Police Station received a report about the fire at a rental warehouse in Moo 12, Bueng Kham Phroi Subdistrict, Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani Province. Upon receiving the alert, he informed his superiors and rushed to the scene with Deputy Superintendent Prakot Nakyai and over 20 fire engines. The fire started in warehouse B41, owned by a furniture manufacturing company, and rapidly spread to four warehouses on the left and three on the right, engulfing a total of seven warehouses. The full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed. Initial efforts by the fire department succeeded in containing the blaze within a limited area. Paiboon, a 64 year old security guard, reported that the fire likely resulted from an electrical short circuit originating in warehouse B41. At the time, he was patrolling the area and noticed the flames inside the locked warehouse, which prevented him from accessing the interior. The affected warehouse stored flammable materials such as wood and thinner. Fortunately, no workers were present as the company had closed for the day at around 5pm. However, neighbouring companies were still operating, which contributed to the fire spreading to several adjoining warehouses, reported KhaoSod. First responders have documented the scene and taken photographs as evidence. Witnesses will be summoned for questioning to determine the origin and cause of the fire. Additionally, forensic officers will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the precise cause of the blaze. In related news, a fire broke out at the Pak Kret Police Station, in Nonthaburi on July 16, prompting a swift response from local police, firefighters, and volunteers. The blaze was quickly contained, preventing major damage and resulting in no injuries. by Nattapong Westwood Fire at Pathum Thani warehouse spreads to seven others. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Is Anutin Thailand's Prospective Next Prime Minister? Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy. Bhumjaithai Thailand’s political scene is crackling with anticipation as the Constitutional Court gets ready to rule on Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s qualifications next month. The court’s decision, due on August 14, could potentially reshape the country’s leadership, with Srettha possibly being removed from office. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333784-is-anutin-thailands-prospective-next-prime-minister/

Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy. Bhumjaithai Thailand’s political scene is crackling with anticipation as the Constitutional Court gets ready to rule on Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s qualifications next month. The court’s decision, due on August 14, could potentially reshape the country’s leadership, with Srettha possibly being removed from office. Current political dynamics, including secret and public gatherings, indicate a frenzied effort among key players to position themselves favourably for any upheaval. Deputy Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul stands out, active on the political front and possibly positioned as a strong candidate to step in. Notably, Anutin has been seen mingling with significant political and business figures, including hosting former PM Thaksin Shinawatra at the Rancho Charnvee Resort in Khao Yai. His active engagement has not gone unnoticed, presenting him as a potentially unifying figure for various factions. Should Srettha be disqualified, the selection of a new PM would be from the existing pool of candidates cleared by the Election Commission. These include Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Chaikasem Nitisiri from the Pheu Thai Party, General Prawit Wongsuwan of the Palang Pracharath Party, Pirapan Salirathavibhaga from the United Thai Nation Party, and, crucially, Anutin himself. Paetongtarn’s immediate assumption of the PM role seems unlikely, given the political turmoil. Chaikasem, meanwhile, faces health challenges. This potentially opens the door for Anutin, especially given his robust relationship with the influential Thaksin despite past frictions within their circles. Anutin’s reputation also extends to his handling of significant national issues, such as the divisive cannabis policy, showcasing his political acumen. His connections, particularly within military ranks, further bolster his prospects. This includes alliances with influential figures like General Sanitchanok Sangkhachan and General Charoenchai Hinthao. With General Prawit also vying for influence, the political chessboard is complex and fluid. However, Anutin’s rising prominence and strategic alliances make him a significant contender, positioning him as a potential stabilising force in Thailand’s political future. As the court’s ruling approaches, Thailand waits with bated breath, watching to see if Anutin Charnvirakul will indeed emerge as the next Prime Minister. RELATED TOPIC: Thai PM Faces Judgment Day Over Minister Nomination on Aug. 14 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333769-thai-pm-faces-judgment-day-over-minister-nomination-on-aug-14/ -- 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Politics in play: Golf outing sparks denials of secret deals by Thai parties by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Maynatchira Instagram account Pheu Thai Party and coalition partner Bhumjaithai Party have refuted claims of any secret agreements after former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul were seen playing golf together at a resort in Nakhon Ratchasima over the weekend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333782-politics-in-play-golf-outing-sparks-denials-of-secret-deals-by-thai-parties/

Pheu Thai Party and coalition partner Bhumjaithai Party have refuted claims of any secret agreements after former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul were seen playing golf together at a resort in Nakhon Ratchasima over the weekend. Anutin, who holds the positions of Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, clarified that Thaksin and his family stayed at a different hotel. He asserted that no political discussions took place with Thaksin, who is widely considered to be Pheu Thai’s unofficial leader. Anutin also dismissed allegations that he sought Thaksin’s help to resolve the ongoing conflict between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai regarding the government’s plan to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic. “It has nothing to do with Thaksin. The Narcotics Control Board (NCB) will make a decision on the matter.” Observers have noted a growing dispute between Bhumjaithai, which has championed the decriminalisation of cannabis, and Pheu Thai, which aims to reverse this policy. A health committee responsible for controlling illegal drugs voted on July 5 to reclassify cannabis and hemp as narcotics, effective from January 1, 2025. This committee will present its findings to the NCB for review this month. Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai also denied any secret deals between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai. “They went to play golf, sang songs and had dinner together.” However, sources indicated that the golf outing between Anutin and Thaksin at the Khao Yai resort was intended to address the cannabis dispute between the two parties. These sources suggested that a potential resolution could involve the NCB returning the relisting proposal to the health committee for further review and the government advocating for a cannabis law with stricter controls on its use. In exchange, Bhumjaithai is anticipated to fully support Pheu Thai’s digital wallet scheme, according to the sources. Deputy PM Anutin Charnvirakul joins Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, in a sing-along. Picture courtesy of Maynatchira Instagram by Bob Scott TOP Picture courtesy of Maynatchira Instagram account Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man arrested for raping his Thai-British half-sister by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Police in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen arrested a Thai man who raped his younger half-sister in February last year. He subsequently went into hiding, evading arrest, after the despicable deed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333781-thai-man-arrested-for-raping-his-thai-british-half-sister/

Police in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen arrested a Thai man who raped his younger half-sister in February last year. He subsequently went into hiding, evading arrest, after the despicable deed. Banped Police Station officers arrested the 29 year old rapist, Manop, and temporarily detained him at the police station to prevent him from fleeing again. He was arrested for sexually assaulting his half-sister, who was born to his mother’s British ex-husband. Police Lieutenant Colonel Suphon Loyda told Channel 7 that Manop’s mother, 47 year old Ko, accompanied her daughter Gift to the police station in February last year to file a rape complaint. Ko explained that her daughter lived with her older sister, the girl’s aunt, in Khon Kaen. Manop later moved into the same house after losing his job at a construction site. Manop raped his half-sister, who was 12 at the time, and the girl asked her mother and her aunt to help her file a complaint against the rapist. Manop then escaped arrest and has not contacted the family since. Manop was charged under Section 277 of the Penal Code: sexual assault of a minor under the age of 13. The penalty is seven to 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of 140,000 to 400,000 baht, or life imprisonment. Sadly, several reports of sexual assault by family members have hit the headlines. Last week, a half-Thai, half-German man was sentenced to 25 years and six months in prison for sexually assaulting his biological daughter and distributing explicit videos online. Two weeks ago, police in Phuket arrested a Thai man for raping his nine year old stepdaughter and 11 year old niece. Phuket Hotnews reported that his wife allegedly knew about the sexual assaults for a long time but urged the victims not to take legal action against her husband. Another Thai man was arrested in January for raping both his biological daughter and stepdaughter for over 10 years. His biological daughter later became pregnant, prompting another victim to seek police help to save her sister and the baby. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

2 Thai men wanted for dumping body of infant at Bangkok temple by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ นสพ.นินจาบางกอก Police are searching for two Thai men who left a foam box containing the frozen body of an infant girl at Phai Liang Temple in Soi Petchkasem 101 in the Nong Khaem district of Bangkok yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333780-2-thai-men-wanted-for-dumping-body-of-infant-at-bangkok-temple/

Police are searching for two Thai men who left a foam box containing the frozen body of an infant girl at Phai Liang Temple in Soi Petchkasem 101 in the Nong Khaem district of Bangkok yesterday. A Thai man yesterday, July 23, called Nongkangplu Police Station and rescuers to the Phai Liang Temple after the two men abandoned the baby. The man explained that he witnessed two Thai men arrive at the temple with the white foam box yesterday morning. They placed the box at the temple and told the staff that they would return to hold a funeral for the baby after they lodged a complaint with the police. However, they never returned as they claimed. Police reported that the body was stuffed in the box with a large amount of ice. The baby girl was wrapped in cloth and put in a black bin bag. Rescuers speculated that the baby girl was delivered prematurely and died. Officers did not report whether the baby bore any wounds or bruises. The body was transferred to Siriraj Hospital for an autopsy. Police are now checking security cameras inside and near the temple to identify the two men. A similar discovery of dead newborn babies was reported at the beginning of July. A garbage collector found the bodies of twin boys at the rear of his garbage truck. The mother of the twins was later identified as a Burmese woman who lived in a rented room in Soi Phahonyothin 13 in Bangkok. She confessed to taking medication to kill her babies. Another newborn girl was found in a rubbish bin in Soi Inthamara 22 in Bangkok on July 18. The person who abandoned the girl remains unidentified. In another related report, a Thai woman and her child stumbled upon a cardboard box containing a baby boy on the roadside in the eastern province of Rayong. Luckily, the baby was still alive and was safely rescued. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ นสพ.นินจาบางกอก Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hong Kong model stabbed to death in Bangkok apartment by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Handout via South China Morning Post A 24 year old Eurasian model from Hong Kong was found brutally stabbed to death in her Bangkok apartment. Thai media reports indicate that the young woman, who held a Swiss passport, was discovered last Thursday evening, July 18, after neighbours reported hearing screams around 6.15pm. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333779-hong-kong-model-stabbed-to-death-in-bangkok-apartment/

A 24 year old Eurasian model from Hong Kong was found brutally stabbed to death in her Bangkok apartment. Thai media reports indicate that the young woman, who held a Swiss passport, was discovered last Thursday evening, July 18, after neighbours reported hearing screams around 6.15pm. CCTV footage captured the harrowing moment when the model, Gwendoline Cretton, was carried out of her apartment by her Hong Kong boyfriend, Wai, and two other men. The police have since arrested Wai, who claims that Cretton took her own life. However, the circumstances surrounding her death are clouded with suspicion. Surveillance footage shows Wai’s yellow car lingering near Cretton’s apartment just before the incident, and she was last seen walking her dog around 5.30pm on July 18. The Thai Immigration Department has yet to receive any requests for assistance but is in close contact with the Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy in Thailand to monitor the situation. Cretton’s tragic end has sent shockwaves through the modelling community. She was reportedly represented by CalCarries International Management, the same agency that counts famous names like Gaile Lok and Danielle Graham among its talents. The agency confirmed that Cretton had worked with them for a long time until her contract ended this year. However, they were unable to contact her for confirmation as she was no longer on their roster. Cretton’s career included a recent photo shoot for an Italian fashion brand, with images posted on social media in late January. She also collaborated with various make-up artists for shoots, with her modelling career dating back to 2018. Additionally, she maintained a YouTube channel under the name Gwen Sun, although it reportedly had no content. The Swiss embassy in Bangkok and the consulate in Hong Kong have been contacted for comments, but no statements have been issued, reported South China Morning Post. Picture courtesy of CalCarries by Puntid Tantivangphaisal TOP Photo courtesy of Handout via South China Morning Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Koh Panyi vendors slammed for fleecing South Korean YouTubers by Petch Petpailin Photo via YouTube/ 컬렌 Cullen HateBerry Thai netizens condemned local vendors on Koh Panyi, an island in the southern province of Phang Nga, for overcharging two South Korean YouTubers. Some netizens claimed that the island locals also overcharged domestic tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333778-koh-panyi-vendors-slammed-for-fleecing-south-korean-youtubers/

by Petch Petpailin Thai netizens condemned local vendors on Koh Panyi, an island in the southern province of Phang Nga, for overcharging two South Korean YouTubers. Some netizens claimed that the island locals also overcharged domestic tourists. The drama emerged after the YouTube channel Cullen HateBerry released a video in which Paek Ki Deuk, better known as Cullen, and his friend Jung visited Koh Panyi. Netizens and YouTubers’ fans pointed out their expenses: 1,000 baht for a boat trip and another 1,000 baht for souvenirs. Some netizens guessed that the boat trip was expensive because they booked a private trip without other tourists on the same boat. However, others were still curious about the price of the souvenirs. Cullen and Jung bought a pearl shell for 500 baht and a necklace for 300 baht. The total price was 800 baht, and Jung paid with a 1,000-baht bill. Jung asked the seller for a discount. The seller did not give them a discount but suggested a necklace for free. However, the seller actually charged them 200 baht for the necklace, so the total cost they paid was 1,000 baht instead of 800 baht. Many netizens stated that the prices were too expensive while others felt that the souvenir seller took advantage of the two YouTubers by tricking them into buying another necklace at 200 baht. The criticism later escalated into religious discrimination, as some netizens stereotyped Muslim people as being tricky. Some pointed out that these South Korean YouTubers were cheated once before when they bought fried chicken from a Muslim stall in the Hat Yai district in Songkhla province. Deputy mayor Many netizens claimed that they were overcharged despite being a domestic tourist. They shared their negative experiences on the island of X, formerly Twitter. “My friend and I went to Koh Panyi a few years ago. We ordered fried sea bass with fish sauce, and it cost us 1,600 baht. My friend and I were in shock!” “I visited this island once, and it’s enough. Let it be an abandoned island.” “Can I say it? But this happens everywhere. They overcharge tourists, especially foreigners. If foreigners are willing to pay, it’s fine. But sometimes those vendors pressure them to buy. My foreign friend once did not dare to say no but now he has to.” Locals on the island and some netizens defended the prices as suitable for a tourist destination, stating that not everything on the island is expensive. The Deputy Mayor of Koh Panyee Sub-district Office, Prasit Haemin, also came forward to defend locals in Koh Panyi. Prasit explained that the boat fare of 1,000 baht was not expensive at all because the boat driver had to take about 30 minutes to send the tourists to the island, return to the mainland, and pick them up the next morning. Prasit also clarified that he already talked to the souvenir seller in the video. She revealed that the two YouTubers asked for a free product, so she gave them three pieces of souvenirs for 1,000 baht, down from the original price of 1,100 baht. However, many fans of the YouTubers responded to the deputy mayor that the two asked for a discount, not free items. They added that Jung had never asked for a discount from any sellers before, which meant that these souvenirs were costly. Prasit added in the interview with MGR Online that he and locals on the island were willing to take criticism and recommendations but they could not accept discrimination based on their religion. He urged netizens to refrain from criticising Muslim people and threatened legal action against those who did. by Petch Petpailin Photo via YouTube/ 컬렌 Cullen HateBerry Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man loses 125K gold necklace to woman on dating app by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon A Thai man lost a gold necklace worth over 125,000 baht to a woman he met on a dating app after meeting her at a hotel in the Isaan province of Udon Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333777-thai-man-loses-125k-gold-necklace-to-woman-on-dating-app/

A Thai man lost a gold necklace worth over 125,000 baht to a woman he met on a dating app after meeting her at a hotel in the Isaan province of Udon Thani. The victim, 18 year old Ditdanai Takhamhor, filed a complaint against his former date, identified only as Zia at Mueang Udon Thani Police Station. Ditdanai explained that he moved from Roi Et to Udon Thani to work at a construction site with his uncle. He was alone there without family, so he used a dating app, hoping to find a soulmate. Ditdanai met Zia on the app. She told him that she was a nurse at a hospital in Khon Kaen province. They talked to each other online for a month before arranging a face-to-face meeting at a hotel in Udon Thani on July 11. Zia booked three rooms at the hotel, saying she came with her mother and younger brother. Unlike other cases, Ditdanai said Zia was as beautiful as her profile on the application. After talking for a while, Zia excused herself, saying she had to go on a personal errand with her mother and brother, so Ditdanai waited for her in the hotel room. Ditdanai said he later came out to enjoy the outdoor atmosphere but carried the wrong hotel key. It was the key to Zia’s brother’s room. He informed Zia about the issue, and she contacted the hotel staff to open the room for him. However, the staff would not come until the next day, so Zia asked Ditdanai to wait in her brother’s room. Ditdanai woke up at 4am the next day and found that everyone had disappeared, including his valuables, the 125,000-baht gold necklace. He contacted Zia to ask about his belongings. Zia said she would keep them and return them to him but she never did. Ditdanai contacted Zia’s mother to request his gold but she explained that Zia had been seriously injured in a car accident. Ditdanai patiently waited for her recovery, but even after she recuperated, the family did not return his gold necklace. Consequently, he chose to pursue legal action against Zia. The police assured him they would summon Zia to the station to retrieve and return the gold to Ditdanai. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sky-high tourism boom: Thai-Chinese flights to double by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co Ltd (Aerothai) announced a dramatic increase in flights between Thailand and China. The number of annual flights is expected to double from under 100,000 to a staggering 200,000, thanks to a new mutual permanent visa waiver policy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333776-sky-high-tourism-boom-thai-chinese-flights-to-double/

Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co Ltd (Aerothai) announced a dramatic increase in flights between Thailand and China. The number of annual flights is expected to double from under 100,000 to a staggering 200,000, thanks to a new mutual permanent visa waiver policy. The policy, which began in March, allows Chinese and Thai passport holders to enjoy visa-free holidays and transits for up to 30 days. Aerothai president Nopasit Chakpitak revealed that four major routes: Macao-Hong Kong, Hainan-eastern China, Laos-Vietnam-China, and Yunnan-western China are responsible for 60% of all flights to China and currently constitute 20% of Thailand’s international flights. Nopasit estimated that the total flights to China this year will reach around 86,150, marking a 126% year-on-year increase. “As passenger airlines and the air logistics industry recover from the Covid-19 crisis, more operators are restoring routes to China and applying to open new ones to economically important destinations.” Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, is particularly popular, with 5,896 flights from Thailand in the past eight months. “We estimate flights to Chengdu will exceed 8,850 this year, a 265% year-on-year jump.” To address congestion, Aerothai is discussing with authorities in China and Laos to open parallel aviation routes. This aims to ease the bottleneck on the current flight path set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in northwestern Laos, reported The Nation. “These routes will accommodate more flights from Thailand to Chinese economic cities such as Chengdu, Tianfu, Kunming, Guiyang, Chongqing, and Xi’an. We expect them to open by 2026 to support up to 200,000 flights per year.” In related news, the majority of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand in the second quarter of this year were lured by the country’s delectable cuisine and exotic fruits, according to the Tourism Council of Thailand. The Council’s report, published on July 4, surveyed 205 Chinese nationals. The participants included 44% from Mainland China, 24% from Hong Kong, 18% from Taiwan, and 14% from Singapore. It unveiled intriguing insights into their spending habits and preferences. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok in top 30 most dangerous cities for tourists by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Bangkok has been named the 30th most dangerous city for tourists, according to a recent Forbes Advisor article. The article, 12 Best Travel Insurance Companies of July 2024, compared 60 international cities across seven key risk metrics. The cities were evaluated on travel safety, crime risk, personal security risk, health security risk, infrastructure security risk, natural disaster risk, and digital security risk. Topping the list as the riskiest city was Caracas, Venezuela, with a perfect risk score of 100 out of 100. Karachi followed closely with a score of 93.12, and Yangon ranked third with 91.67. Lagos in Nigeria and Manila also made the top five, scoring 91.54 and 91.49 respectively. Bangkok received a risk score of 53.34, placing it 30th overall. The Thai capital’s highest risk scores were in the crime and health security categories, both at 39. Infrastructure risk scored 22, digital security risk 17, and personal security risk was relatively low at 5. On the flip side, Singapore was named the safest city for tourists, boasting a risk score of zero. Tokyo, Toronto, Sydney, and Zurich rounded out the top five safest cities, with scores of 10.72, 13.6, 22.28, and 22.97, respectively. When compared to other Southeast Asian cities, Bangkok emerged as the second safest after Singapore. Kuala Lumpur followed in third place with a score of 55.36, Ho Chi Minh City came next with 61.83, and Jakarta trailed with a high-risk score of 81.98, reported The Nation. Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Cannabis Controversy: Is Thailand Ready to Recriminalize Marijuana? Anutin Charnvirakul supports the legalisation of Cannabis in Thailand. (FILE PHOTO) A hundred years ago, cannabis was completely legal in Thailand and was widely used in food, medicine, and for making hemp fiber. Today, it is also legal, but this might change soon. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333775-cannabis-controversy-is-thailand-ready-to-recriminalize-marijuana/

Anutin Charnvirakul supports the legalisation of Cannabis in Thailand. (FILE PHOTO) A hundred years ago, cannabis was completely legal in Thailand and was widely used in food, medicine, and for making hemp fiber. Today, it is also legal, but this might change soon. Recently, there have been signs that cannabis, known locally as ganja, might be classified as a narcotic again, like it was for most of the last century. **Herb with History** Humans have been using cannabis for thousands of years. It is believed that cannabis arrived in Thailand from India, where it is used in religious ceremonies and traditional medicine, reported Thai PBS. Over the centuries, Thais have used ganja for various purposes, such as soothing tired muscles and relieving pain. However, concerns about its intoxicating effects led to the banning of cannabis possession, sale, and use in 1934. Thailand's stance on cannabis became stricter over time, especially after signing three United Nations conventions: the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, and the 1988 Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. In 1975, Thailand issued a law on psychotropic substances that included cannabis. In 1982, the country reinforced its stance with the Narcotics Act, imposing jail terms and fines on those caught using, possessing, or trafficking cannabis. When Thailand decriminalized marijuana in June 2022, 4,075 prisoners convicted of cannabis-related offenses were released. **Journey to Legalization** Five years ago, few imagined that marijuana would become legal in Thailand again. Decha Siriphat, director of the Khao Kwan Foundation for sustainable agriculture, faced trouble for giving cannabis oil to cancer patients in palliative care. Decha studied the benefits of cannabis after seeing his mother suffer from cancer. Hope grew that Decha would avoid jail after the Bhumjaithai Party made marijuana legalization a key election policy. The policy allowed each household to grow up to six cannabis plants to help with pain and poverty. After the 2019 election, Bhumjaithai joined the coalition government, and its leader, Anutin Charnvirakul, became the public health minister. Under his leadership, cannabis for medical use was legalized before the end of 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed the Marijuana and Hemp Act, but cannabis was finally decriminalized on December 9, 2021. Anutin also removed ganja from the narcotics list, making it fully legal. The cannabis market boomed, with shops and dispensaries opening nationwide, and the herb being used in everything from food to cosmetics. **Returning to the Narcotics List?** However, the unregulated use of recreational marijuana caused concern. Several medical groups warned about rising cannabis consumption and abuse. In response, the Public Health Ministry banned smoking cannabis in public and restricted the sale of cannabis buds, the plant's psychoactive part. The ruling Pheu Thai Party has long opposed marijuana legalization. In May, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin instructed the Public Health Ministry to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic and limit its use to medical purposes only. On July 5, the National Narcotics Committee decided to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic. The National Narcotics Control Board will soon meet to discuss this issue. If the board agrees, cannabis will become illegal again. However, Anutin, now a deputy prime minister and interior minister, is trying to prevent this. Meanwhile, the status of cannabis in Thailand remains uncertain. -- 2024-07-25 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe