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In a tale of love, resilience, and an unexpected proposal, a British couple from Durham, in the northeast of England, found themselves thrust into the spotlight after a near-fatal motorbike crash during what was supposed to be a dreamy 28-day Thai vacation. As their love story unfolds amidst the wreckage, a community rallies to support the engaged couple, fighting against not only life-threatening injuries but also mounting medical bills. Chiang Mai, what began as a dreamy holiday for 31 year old Dale Goundry, an electrical engineer, and his 27 year old fiancée, Sophie Redpath, a production operator, turned into a nightmare of unimaginable proportions. The couple from Newton Aycliffe in County Durham, embarked on a lavish getaway to Thailand, filled with anticipation and plans for a marriage proposal. However, fate took a cruel turn on January 22 when the pair collided with the central reservation of a motorway in Chiang Mai, hurtling through the air in a terrifying motorbike crash. The accident left Dale with a collapsed lung, ten broken ribs, and a shoulder so severely injured that his arm became detached. Amid this harrowing ordeal, Dale, fearing the worst, made a poignant call to his mother, uttering a heartbreaking goodbye. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Northern Echo Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand deports dissident Russian rockers to Israel Human rights advocates warned against sending Bi-2 to Russia where they could be persecuted for opposing Ukraine war. Thailand has deported members of a dissident Russian-Belarusian rock band critical of Moscow’s war in Ukraine to Israel after they were detained for performing without a permit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318672-thailand-deports-dissident-russian-rockers-to-israel/

Human rights advocates warned against sending Bi-2 to Russia where they could be persecuted for opposing Ukraine war. Thailand has deported members of a dissident Russian-Belarusian rock band critical of Moscow’s war in Ukraine to Israel after they were detained for performing without a permit. Members of Bi-2 left “safely” for Tel Aviv on Wednesday night, they said on their Facebook page. Human rights advocates had warned the group would face severe persecution for speaking out against Russia’s war in Ukraine if they were sent back to Russia. Thai authorities had detained the members of Bi-2 for working at the resort island of Phuket without a permit. The fate of the band provoked an international outcry, leading Thai immigration officials to give the band the choice of being deported to another destination if they felt unsafe to return to Russia. Thailand’s National Security Council, chaired by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, took charge of the case on Wednesday. Full story: AL JAZEERA 2024-02-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand –A British teacher who allegedly took away a minor from her guardians and molested her in Phuket many years ago was arrested in Chiang Mai. The Immigration Bureau told the Phuket Express that this week they arrested Mr. Taylor (alias), 38, a British national in the Mueang Chiang Mai district. The arrest warrant had been issued by the Phuket Provincial Court last month on January 12th. He is being accused of taking away a minor aged more than 15-years-old but not more than 18-years-old from her parents or guardian without proper reason for obscene purposes. He was taken back to the Chalong Police Station in Phuket. The arrest came after a period in 2014 -2015 when Mr. Taylor, who lived in Thailand, worked as a teacher at an international school in Phuket. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-02-02 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 2 February 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1318670-thailand-live-friday-2-february-2024/

Indian Man Found Dead Floating in Sea Near Pattaya Walking Street A male tourist, believed to be of Indian nationality, was found floating dead off the coast of Pattaya’s Walking Street on Thursday morning, February 1st. The discovery was made around 10:30 AM near Soi 14, prompting a swift response from local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318644-indian-man-found-dead-floating-in-sea-near-pattaya-walking-street/

PHUKET, (TNA) — Phuket police investigators are questioning four Russian suspects involving in the kidnapping case of a Russian couple, demanding crypto currency worth some 30 million baht as ransom. Phuket Police Investigate Russian Suspects in Kidnapping Case Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318642-phuket-police-investigate-russian-suspects-in-kidnapping-case/

Cannabis culture in Thailand: A new high in lifestyle by Konain Asif Photo taken by Washarapol D BinYo Jundang Cannabis has woven its way through the fabric of Thai culture for centuries, intertwining with both the spiritual and the everyday. It’s been a journey of highs and lows, from sacred ceremonies in the lush hills of the North to the shadowy corners of prohibition. But you’re stepping into a story far from over; it’s a narrative that’s just finding its second wind. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318617-cannabis-culture-in-thailand-a-new-high-in-lifestyle/

Cannabis has woven its way through the fabric of Thai culture for centuries, intertwining with both the spiritual and the everyday. It’s been a journey of highs and lows, from sacred ceremonies in the lush hills of the North to the shadowy corners of prohibition. But you’re stepping into a story far from over; it’s a narrative that’s just finding its second wind. Imagine a Thailand where cannabis isn’t just a plant but a pivotal part of life. From the ancient rituals of indigenous tribes to the bustling streets of Bangkok, cannabis has shaped traditions, medicine, and even cuisine. Now, as the tides of legislation turn, Thailand is on the cusp of rekindling its long-lost green flame, merging age-old customs with the new wave of cannabis culture. Rise of cannabis tourism In recent years, Thailand has emerged as a significant destination for tourists with a keen interest in the cannabis culture. This transition stems from pivotal legal adjustments and the burgeoning presence of cannabis businesses catering specifically to enthusiasts. Let’s delve into how these changes are shaping the landscape for both locals and tourists. Photo taken by Alesia Kozik When did Thailand legalize cannabis? The landmark moment came on June 9, 2022, when Thailand made history by removing cannabis from the Category 5 narcotics list, making it the first country in Asia to do so. This bold step allowed for the cultivation and personal use of cannabis, thus paving the way for a new era in Thai society. The government’s move, aimed at medical purposes, inadvertently stimulated a thriving culture around cannabis, influencing both the local lifestyle and the tourism sector. Is marijuana legal for foreigners in Thailand? If you’re a foreign visitor intrigued by the cannabis landscape in Thailand, you’re in luck. The decriminalization encompasses both locals and tourists, permitting the legal purchase and consumption of cannabis within the country. However, it’s crucial to be aware of specific cannabis regulations. For instance, individuals under 20, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers are prohibited from using cannabis. Additionally, the sale of cannabis through vending machines or online platforms is not allowed. For a seamless experience, ensuring compliance with these regulations is paramount. Are there weed coffee shops in Thailand? Yes, following the decriminalization, there has been a noticeable surge in cannabis-themed establishments, particularly cannabis shops and cafes. These trendy spots offer a wide array of cannabis-infused products, from beverages to baked goods, aligning with Thailand’s reputation for culinary innovation. It’s important to note that while these establishments provide a unique cultural experience, they must operate under strict cannabis regulations. Owners of such establishments must obtain a cannabis license, ensuring that their business practices adhere to the legal framework set by the Thai government. This measure is designed to regulate the industry and safeguard consumer interests while allowing the blossoming of a cannabis-infused gastronomy scene. In navigating this evolving landscape, tourists are presented with an unparalleled opportunity to explore the integration of cannabis into Thailand’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether it’s through the lens of medical use, culinary exploration, or simply experiencing the local lifestyle, Thailand’s cannabis culture offers a diverse array of experiences awaiting discovery. by Konain Asif Photo taken by Washarapol D BinYo Jundang Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Burmese magnate Tun Min Latt walks free from drug trafficking trial by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail The Criminal Court acquitted Myanmar magnate Tun Min Latt and Senator Upakit Pacharirangkun’s son-in-law, Dean Young Gultula, of drug trafficking charges. The ruling cited insufficient evidence, leaving jaws dropping in disbelief. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318614-burmese-magnate-tun-min-latt-walks-free-from-drug-trafficking-trial/

The Criminal Court acquitted Myanmar magnate Tun Min Latt and Senator Upakit Pacharirangkun’s son-in-law, Dean Young Gultula, of drug trafficking charges. The ruling cited insufficient evidence, leaving jaws dropping in disbelief. The charges were filed against Tun Min Latt, the Myanmar businessman, and Gultula, along with two others and the Allure Group (P&E) Co., Ltd., an electricity supply business. The allegations suggested involvement in a criminal organisation, engaging in serious drug offences between February 22 and May 10, 2019. The accused supposedly conspired to procure methamphetamine, listed as narcotics (Category 1). Roles were assigned to the accused, managing money transactions and dealing drugs through the company’s accounts. The entire operation was cunningly disguised as payment for electricity bills to the Provincial Electricity Authority in Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district. Shockingly, funds allegedly gained from drug trafficking were funnelled into goods categorised as electricity supplies, and exported to Myanmar. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand weather forecast: Cool morning, fog, warming, light rain by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock A sharp temperature drop and sporadic rain are expected in parts of Thailand today, according to the Thai weather forecast by the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318611-thailand-weather-forecast-cool-morning-fog-warming-light-rain/

A sharp temperature drop and sporadic rain are expected in parts of Thailand today, according to the Thai weather forecast by the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD). In Bangkok, light showers are anticipated, while the south faces stormy conditions due to the prevailing monsoon, with waves exceeding 1 metre in some areas. The country’s northern region is bracing for a cool to cold spell, with temperatures forecasted to dip by 1-2 degrees Celsius. Residents waking up to a chilly morning may also encounter fog, adding a layer of complexity to the already brisk environment. The public is advised to take care of their health amidst these changing conditions and to exercise caution when travelling through foggy areas, reported KhaoSod. The northern region has cool to cold weather along with morning fog and the temperatures drop by 1-2 degrees Celsius. The lower areas get cool mornings with some fog, and occasional light rain, night temperatures might be in the realm of 14-21 to 32-36 degrees Celsius during the day. Cool temperatures ranging from 4-12 degrees Celsius and some frost should be expected around mountain tops. The westerly wind will blow at 5-15 km/h. The northeastern region will experience a cool morning with fog, giving way to slight warming as temperatures start picking accompanied by light rain in a few places. During the night, temperatures range from 20-23 degrees Celsius and during the day, they reach 33-36 degrees Celsius. On top of mountains, it cools to cold with night temperatures ranging between 12-16 degrees Celsius. The wind is blowing from the eastern direction at a speed of 10-15 km/h. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Move Forward and Pita face uncertain future in Thailand - Tim Newton Today - Feb 1 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318610-move-forward-and-pita-face-uncertain-future-in-thailand-tim-newton-today-feb-1/

Thailand news - The Constitutional Court has handed down a finding saying that the Move Forward Party and Pita were involved in a campaign that threatened the Thai Monarchy. But they didn't impose any specific punishment, leaving the matter hanging in the air. An update on the fate of the members of the dissident rebel Russian rock band members, land prices in Bangkok are on a roll, and the Thai military asked to hand back some of its lucrative parcels of land around Thailand, including the golf course in the middle of the Don Meuang Airport. And a British teacher at an international school in Phuket has been arrested 10 years after crimes of sexual assault on a minor. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

4 year old boy falls to his death from 23rd floor of Bangkok condo by Petch Petpailin Photo via SiamRath Tragedy struck the Jomthong district of Bangkok yesterday when a four year old boy fell to his death from the balcony of a 23rd-floor condominium on Rama II Road. The family had only just moved into the condo on the day of the heartbreaking incident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318609-4-year-old-boy-falls-to-his-death-from-23rd-floor-of-bangkok-condo/

Tragedy struck the Jomthong district of Bangkok yesterday when a four year old boy fell to his death from the balcony of a 23rd-floor condominium on Rama II Road. The family had only just moved into the condo on the day of the heartbreaking incident. Bangmod Police Station officers visited the 26-storey condo at about 4pm yesterday after receiving reports of the fall. Officers discovered the lifeless body of the boy, Witsanuwat “Java” Kittaratakarn, outside the condo. His aunt, 31 year old Thaksana Manowatcharakorn, was seen crying near his body. Java was seen lying face-up on the footpath within the condo premises. He was wearing a brown short-sleeved shirt and dark blue shorts. His body was dark and bruised from the impact of falling from a high balcony. Java’s body was transferred to the Siriraj Hospital for an autopsy. Thaksana kept crying and could not provide any details of the incident to officers. Police and the rescuers had to calm Thaksana down until she could tell the officers what had happened before the fall. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Student Loan Fund recalculates debt repayment to reduce 100 billion baht bad debts by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of iStock With a staggering 100 billion baht (US$2.8 billion) in bad debts, the Student Loan Fund (SLF) is set to see a decline in its debt pile following the implementation of a new debt repayment calculation method, according to SLF manager, Chainarong Kajchapanan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318606-student-loan-fund-recalculates-debt-repayment-to-reduce-100-billion-baht-bad-debts/

With a staggering 100 billion baht (US$2.8 billion) in bad debts, the Student Loan Fund (SLF) is set to see a decline in its debt pile following the implementation of a new debt repayment calculation method, according to SLF manager, Chainarong Kajchapanan. This change is a result of the recent amendment of the Student Loan Fund Act (No.2) 2023, which came into effect last year on March 20. Previously, repayments made by debtors after a default were primarily directed towards offsetting default charges, followed by overdue interest and principal payments. This system often resulted in minimal payments towards the principal debt. The new calculation method, however, prioritises loan principal repayments, followed by overdue interest and default charges. This significant shift in payment structure is further augmented by changes in the interest rate and default charge. The interest rate has been altered from a fixed 1% per year to a fluctuating rate capped at 1% annually. Simultaneously, the default charge has seen a drastic reduction from 7.5% to 0.5%, reported Bangkok Post. Chainarong believes that these recalculations will substantially lessen the debt burden on borrowers, thus encouraging more repayments. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, 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 repeated thefts at house of well-known celebrity manager by Petch Petpailin Photo via Instagram/ @a_supachai1 and Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB A well-known Thai celebrity manager filed a complaint against a local man for repeatedly stealing designer brand products from her home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318604-thai-man-arrested-for-repeated-thefts-at-house-of-well-known-celebrity-manager/

A well-known Thai celebrity manager filed a complaint against a local man for repeatedly stealing designer brand products from her home. The transwoman celebrity manager, Suppachai “A” Srivijit, filed a theft report with the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Police Bureau (IDMB) in mid-January after designer brand items worth about 2 million baht were stolen. Officers investigated the matter and found that a stolen luxury brand jacket had been listed for sale on social media. The rare jacket not commonly owned by Thais prompted officers to pose as potential customers to gather information about the jacket and the seller. This intelligence ultimately led the police to identify the culprit as 29 year old Tanandorn “Flight” Rammasute. Flight had previously faced charges for theft from A’s residence in February of the preceding year, bolstering officers’ confidence in his involvement in this latest case. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Instagram/ @a_supachai1 and Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man dies in high-speed motorcycle crash on Phuket road by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic motorcycle accident claimed the life of a 33 year old man in Phuket early this morning after he lost control of his vehicle and crashed. Police and emergency services rushed to the scene, where they discovered the victim had suffered fatal head injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318603-man-dies-in-high-speed-motorcycle-crash-on-phuket-road/

A tragic motorcycle accident claimed the life of a 33 year old man in Phuket early this morning after he lost control of his vehicle and crashed. Police and emergency services rushed to the scene, where they discovered the victim had suffered fatal head injuries. Before dawn today, a sharp curve on a road in Phuket turned into the scene of a fatal accident when a motorcyclist, identified as Sutthisak (last name withheld), crashed his Honda Wave I motorcycle. The incident occurred around 5am near Wat Khatu in the Khatu district of Phuket province. Upon their arrival at the site, police and rescue volunteers found Sutthisak’s lifeless body lying in the middle of the road, with a severely fractured skull and profuse bleeding. The motorcycle was found approximately 50 metres away, lying on its side with significant damage. Early findings suggest that the rider was travelling at high speed and failed to navigate the curve, leading to the devastating crash, reported KhaoSod. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai transport ministry announces 652 billion baht for infrastructure projects by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost The Thai Transport Ministry has recently announced a substantial investment of 652 billion baht (US$ 18,345,526,120). The funds are earmarked for around 150 transport projects to be initiated this year and the next, in a bid to bolster the country’s infrastructure. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1318600-thai-transport-ministry-announces-652-billion-baht-for-infrastructure-projects/

The Thai Transport Ministry has recently announced a substantial investment of 652 billion baht (US$ 18,345,526,120). The funds are earmarked for around 150 transport projects to be initiated this year and the next, in a bid to bolster the country’s infrastructure. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit detailed the plans following a policy seminar held yesterday, February 1. According to him, 64 projects, with a combined budget of 389 billion baht (US$ 10,944,489,715), are slated to kick off this year, with an additional 31 lined up. In the following year, the Ministry will commence 57 new projects, collectively worth 263 billion baht (US$ 7,399,696,990). This year’s motorway projects include 18 initiatives, such as Motorway No 81 (Bang Yai-Kanchanaburi) and Motorway No 6 (Bang Pa-in-Nakhon Ratchasima). The construction of the 5th Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge in Bueng Kan is also set to begin in 2024, reported Bangkok Post. Moreover, 13 new projects, with a total investment of 254 billion baht (US$ 7,146,475,420), will commence construction before the end of the year. These include Motorway No 9 (the Western Ring Road of Bangkok), an extension of Motorway No 7 connecting to U-tapao airport, and an expansion of Motorway No 5 to Bang Pa-in. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-01 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe