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Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reveals that travel trends of Chinese tourists have shifted, no longer visiting Thailand in large tour groups. Data from the TAT and ATTA roadshow to China 2023 revealed a seismic shift towards independent and small-group travel, with groups of six to eight stealing the show. Nonglux Yooyendee, the director of TAT’s Shanghai office disclosed that Chinese tourists are no longer settling for mundane sightseeing. Instead, they’re craving high-quality tours tailored for the young, families, luxury enthusiasts, and those yearning for an authentic local experience. “Chinese tourists were also focusing on in-depth tours to experience Thai life firsthand instead of just sightseeing.” This paradigm shift is driven by the young generation’s hunger for unique experiences. Chinese tourists demand villas with ample bedrooms for their entourage and Instagram-worthy hotels that scream selfie central. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Invest Bangkok Property Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-10 - 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

Discover Khao Tham Tao: Thailand’s monastery with Buddha’s footprint by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Sanook Khao Tham Tao Monastery, located in Huai Sai, Khorat, has become a unique tourist attraction in Thailand, holding the awe of visitors with its peculiar massive rock formations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316672-discover-khao-tham-tao-thailand’s-monastery-with-buddha’s-footprint/

Khao Tham Tao Monastery, located in Huai Sai, Khorat, has become a unique tourist attraction in Thailand, holding the awe of visitors with its peculiar massive rock formations. Among these is a giant boulder weighing several hundred tonnes that has braved the elements for centuries, bearing an uncanny resemblance to a colossal turtle. Beneath this boulder hides a small cave, leading locals to name the site Khao Tham Tao. The monastery was later established and named after this location. However, the wonder doesn’t stop there. Upon further exploration of the surrounding area, a rock surface with a one-foot deep hole resembling a large human footprint over 2 metres long has been discovered, leading some to believe it could be the footprint of Buddha. by Samantha Rose Photo courtesy of Sanook Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-10 - 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

Son-in-law sparks house fire after abhorrent act in Phetchaburi by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Khao Sod Today in Phetchaburi, a troubling incident unfolded as a heartless son-in-law, Yuranan Pranprai, also known as Yu, triggered a house fire at his home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316670-son-in-law-sparks-house-fire-after-abhorrent-act-in-phetchaburi/

Today in Phetchaburi, a troubling incident unfolded as a heartless son-in-law, Yuranan Pranprai, also known as Yu, triggered a house fire at his home. Local law enforcement, under the leadership of Police Lieutenant Krittapas Montri, and the fire department swiftly responded to the scene to bring the situation under control. The incident took place in a single-storey house and a nearby cattle pen, which suffered minor damage. The fire was eventually subdued by the local fire department from the Phusawan sub-district. The suspect, Yu, allegedly used a gun to coerce his 56 year old mother-in-law, Janya Deeden, into an abhorrent act of sexual violation by an acquaintance, reported KhaoSod. The incident began on the morning of January 9, when Yu and an unidentified man arrived at Janya’s home in a pickup truck. He threatened her with a gun and forced her into the vehicle, driving her to a rented house near Wat Thasik in Thakhoi district, Phetchaburi. Once there, she was forced to stay in a room. An hour later, Chaiwat Aumboot, a man familiar to Janya, entered the room and assaulted her. During a moment of negligence when Chaiwat fell asleep, she managed to steal his phone and attempted to call her daughter for help. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Khao Sod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-10 - 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

Chumphon police launch investigation into missing man and suspected homicide by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Khao Sod In Chumphon, police have invited the mother and relatives of a missing man for questioning in relation to a suspected homicide. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316668-chumphon-police-launch-investigation-into-missing-man-and-suspected-homicide/

In Chumphon, police have invited the mother and relatives of a missing man for questioning in relation to a suspected homicide. The case involves a corpse which was abandoned and is believed to be the same missing person. Authorities are hastening to examine fingerprints and conduct DNA checks on bone fragments for identification. On January 10, Sakritchaya Sukkanit, the Deputy Investigation Chief of Chumphon Police Station, summoned 55 year old Suwannee Sriphichit, along with her daughter and other relatives to provide initial statements for the ongoing investigation. The inquiry was initiated after Suwannee reported on January 8, that her 36 year old son, Jirasak Triyuang, went missing from home on January 3, around 6pm. He disappeared along with a white Toyota Yaris car, registration number 6515 Chumphon, and a white Toyota pickup truck, the registration number of which is unknown. Since then, he has been unreachable, reported Khao Sod. Around the same time, a murder victim was found abandoned in a forest near a canal-side road in Nong Yai, Chumphon. After Suwannee provided her statement to the Chumphon Police Station, she met with Shinawut Silpasawat, the Investigation Chief of Chumphon Police Station, who is leading the homicide investigation. The meeting lasted over two hours before Suwannee left without making any comments to the press. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Khao Sod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-10 - 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

New cold wave to hit Northern Thailand with thunderstorms and temperature drop by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock The Meteorological Department has issued a warning today about a new wave of cold weather that is expected to hit the Northern Thailand region. Residents are advised to prepare for thunderstorms, which are predicted to occur before a decrease in temperature between January 12 and 15. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316667-new-cold-wave-to-hit-northern-thailand-with-thunderstorms-and-temperature-drop/

The Meteorological Department has issued a warning today about a new wave of cold weather that is expected to hit the Northern Thailand region. Residents are advised to prepare for thunderstorms, which are predicted to occur before a decrease in temperature between January 12 and 15. The high-pressure area or cold mass that covers the northeast and the South China Sea is weakening. As a result, the temperature in upper Thailand and the upper south has increased. However, the cool weather persists with morning fog. In the mountainous areas of the north, the weather is cold to very cold, and some places have frost. The lowest temperature is between 6-13 degrees Celsius. In the hilltops of the northeast, the weather is cool to cold, with the lowest temperature between 12-17 degrees Celsius. Residents in these areas are advised to take care of their health due to the cold weather in the morning and to be cautious while traveling through areas of fog. Meanwhile, the northeastern monsoon that covers the Gulf of Thailand and the south is starting to weaken. This leads to a decrease in rainfall in the lower south but thunderstorms still occur in some places. Notably, during the period of January 12-15 , a moderate high-pressure area or another wave of cold air from China will cover the northeast of Thailand and the South China Sea. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-10 - 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

Sirilapas Kongtrakarn: The beauty queen who battled depression to become Thailand’s mental health champion File photo : Move Forward MP Sirilapas Kongtrakarn Move Forward MP Sirilapas Kongtrakarn has never hidden her personal struggles while forging a political career dedicated to improving access to Thailand’s mental health services. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316663-sirilapas-kongtrakarn-the-beauty-queen-who-battled-depression-to-become-thailand’s-mental-health-champion/

Move Forward MP Sirilapas Kongtrakarn has never hidden her personal struggles while forging a political career dedicated to improving access to Thailand’s mental health services. True to form, the 36-year-old politician talked movingly about her fight with depression as she demanded more public funding for mental healthcare during a parliamentary debate on the budget bill last Friday. “I speak for people who have battled depression and other mental disorders, including mothers with postpartum depression and the elderly. Please pay attention and help us. Let’s ensure they receive proper treatment,” Sirilapas said, with tears welling in her eyes. Depression survivor Sirilapas, nicknamed Mew, regularly shares her experiences of struggling with depression for years, trusting that her stories may give fellow sufferers the courage to endure and one day overcome the condition. “I hope my stories can offer lessons to others. It [depression] is not something you have to be ashamed of. Such conditions can be treated. We can get over depression and move ahead,” she said. She counts herself as a prime example of how getting treatment can help sufferers live a quality life and even contribute to society. Beauty in showbiz Sirilapas is accustomed to the pressure of the public spotlight, having entered showbiz while she was still a teenager. She stepped into the limelight at the tender age of 16 when she was named second runner-up at Miss Teen Thailand 2003. By Thai PBS World’s General Desk Top File photo : Move Forward MP Sirilapas Kongtrakarn Full story: Thai PBS 2024-01-10 - 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

Shocking discovery: Man found dead in road pipe in Pathum Thani, friend flees scene by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Khao Sod The Tanyaburi Police Station in Pathum Thani province has reported the discovery of a man found dead, submerged in a communication pipe in the middle of the road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316662-shocking-discovery-man-found-dead-in-road-pipe-in-pathum-thani-friend-flees-scene/

The Tanyaburi Police Station in Pathum Thani province has reported the discovery of a man found dead, submerged in a communication pipe in the middle of the road. A dispute with a friend who had fled the scene was confirmed, prompting an urgent investigation into the mysterious death. On January 10, Lt. Col. Puttipong Yokchom, an investigative officer from Tanyaburi Police Station, received notification of a deceased individual found within a communication pipe in the middle of the road, adjacent to Klong Ha, in front of the Social Development and Welfare Centre, Pathum Thani province. Upon receiving the report, the police accompanied by an officer from the Pathum Thani Provincial Rescue Volunteer Foundation and officials from the Social Development and Welfare Centre, arrived at the scene. The communication pipe was located in the centre of the road, where road construction had been taking place. The officers found debris including broken bricks, gloves, water bottles and traffic cones scattered around. Upon inspection inside the communication pipe, the team discovered the deceased man lying face down in the water, dressed in a reflective green shirt. The officials feared an electrical current may have been present within the pipe, so they coordinated with the local electricity authority to cut off the power before retrieving the body. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Khao Sod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-10 - 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

Tragic Accident Claims Life of Pregnant Woman in Modified Pickup Truck 9 January, at around 11:00 AM, Lt. Col. Nattakarn Piyachoti, Deputy Superintendent (Investigation) of Chai Nat Police Station, received a report of a fatal accident involving a modified pickup truck by the side of the road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316659-tragic-accident-claims-life-of-pregnant-woman-in-modified-pickup-truck/

Vietnamese Nationals Apprehended in Bangkok Wildlife Smuggling Bust Bangkok -- Authorities, including the National Parks Department, CIB police, and the Wildlife Suppression Task Force, nabbed three Vietnamese individuals involved in the illegal trade of protected fauna. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316656-vietnamese-nationals-apprehended-in-bangkok-wildlife-smuggling-bust/

Police Successfully Subdue Intoxicated Man Wielding Knife Using Batons and TASER Picture: Siam Rath On January 9, the Thonglor Police Station responded swiftly to a distress call regarding an intoxicated man causing a disturbance with a knife near the Maileennart Building on Rama IV Road, Khlong Tan sub-district, Khlong Toei district, Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316657-police-successfully-subdue-intoxicated-man-wielding-knife-using-batons-and-taser/

Mysterious mass death at Chiang Mai Night Safari shocks Thailand by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Khao Sod Chiang Mai Night Safari, a popular tourist attraction in Thailand, has faced a mysterious mass death of 13 endangered animals, a significant blow to the country’s wildlife. The casualties include a valuable white tiger, with veterinarians attributing the deaths to various causes, including natural ageing and diseases. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316661-mysterious-mass-death-at-chiang-mai-night-safari-shocks-thailand/

Chiang Mai Night Safari, a popular tourist attraction in Thailand, has faced a mysterious mass death of 13 endangered animals, a significant blow to the country’s wildlife. The casualties include a valuable white tiger, with veterinarians attributing the deaths to various causes, including natural ageing and diseases. Visitors to the Chiang Mai Night Safari had expressed disappointment, reporting that the number of rare and expensive animals was significantly reduced. They lamented that the entrance fee did not justify the experience, considering the scarcity of unique wildlife. The management of Chiang Mai Night Safari and the Office of Natural Resources and Environment, the supervising authority, convened a meeting to discuss the alarming situation. The veterinary team reported that in December 2023, 13 animals, including a large white tiger, had died. They attributed the tiger’s death to ageing and stated that another white tiger cub had died earlier, at less than ten months due to weak health and infection. Several other animals had also died or disappeared, allegedly due to predation by pythons, preventing the recovery of their remains. This situation has prompted a call for the prime minister and responsible ministers to investigate the matter urgently. If left unresolved, the dwindling wildlife population could tarnish the reputation of Chiang Mai Night Safari, renowned as one of the world’s top tourist attractions. The Safari currently attracts no less than 2,000 visitors each day. Full story: [source name + source link] 2024-01-10 - 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 by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of Khao Sod

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 10 January 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316660-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-10-january-2024/

The government insists its 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme will be rolled out in May as planned. The Council of State yesterday submitted its report which recommended that the government seek opinions from all parties to ensure a consensus on the matter before launch. Prime Minister Srettha said.. "We stand by the original timeframe," Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet will visit Thailand on 7th February to hold talks to resolve a dispute over a 26,000-square-kilometer energy-rich area in the Gulf of Thailand claimed by both countries. Several rounds of talks have been held previously that paved the way for the latest meeting. Thailand looks set to become a regional EV manufacturing center, The PM said the BOI board of investment has already approved investment privileges to 16 EV manufacturers with a combined investment value of over 1 billion dollars, plus battery makers and related industries that can establish charging stations. The local authority in bangkok the BMA says 68 areas suffered severe air pollution yesterday, some areas recorded twice the safety limit of PM2.5 particles. The BMA says it has already introduced electric busses, improved train services and other measures in an attempt to reduce traffic levels and reduce the amount of air polluton. Around The Region Taiwan issued a national emergency alert yesterday as China launched a satellite that flew over the island, triggering phones across the country to alert citizens to be aware of safety. This, just days before Taiwan holds a crucial presidential election that has heightened concerns over security. Chiang Mai and the north: sunny 32C Bangkok: Sunny partly cloudy 35 Pattaya: Sunny, partly cloudy 33 Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy, isolated shower 32C ‘Hua Hin: Sunny, 32 AQI moderate to high Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-01-10 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 - 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

9 January, at around 11:00 AM, Lt. Col. Nattakarn Piyachoti, Deputy Superintendent (Investigation) of Chai Nat Police Station, received a report of a fatal accident involving a modified pickup truck by the side of the road. The incident occurred near a tire shop along Highway 1, Phahonyothin Road, Kilometer 288, Moo 3, Thammamul, Mueang Chai Nat. Authorities, along with volunteers from the Chai Nat Provincial Moral and Community Service Foundation and on-duty doctors from Chai Nat Hospital, rushed to the scene, reported Sanook. Upon arrival, they discovered a green Chevrolet Chevrolet modified pickup truck with the registration 1ฒม4846 Bangkok overturned with its wheels pointing towards the sky, having collided with a parked pickup truck in front of the tire shop. The lifeless body of Ms. Kurahana, 21 years old and six months pregnant, was found with a broken neck and legs. Additionally, Mr. Saroj, 35 years old, displayed multiple fractures and signs of shock. Immediate cardiac resuscitation was administered, and both victims were rushed to Chai Nat Hospital in critical condition. During the inspection inside the vehicle, authorities found 135 ecstasy pills, 0.55 grams of crystal methamphetamine, and a 9mm CZ pistol with one chambered round. These items were collected as evidence to further investigate and prosecute those involved. Preliminary statements from the driver of the other vehicle, Mr. Ekkaphong, 33 years old, suggested that the deceased had engaged in reckless driving behavior before the collision. Investigators are now gathering witness statements and evidence to determine if the deceased was associated with drug trafficking and if the firearm was legally possessed. Further interviews with involved parties will be conducted to pursue legal action. Picture: Sanook - ASEAN NOW 2024-01-10 - 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 your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

On January 9, the Thonglor Police Station responded swiftly to a distress call regarding an intoxicated man causing a disturbance with a knife near the Maileennart Building on Rama IV Road, Khlong Tan sub-district, Khlong Toei district, Bangkok. Pol. Lt. Col. Kittichet Chetthakrit, the investigating officer, along with his team, arrived at the scene to find Mr. Isara Alek, a 33-year-old man of tall stature and dark-red complexion, wielding a knife, reported Siam Rath. Mr. Isara, acting erratically and resisting negotiations, prompted Pol. Lt. Col. Natkittik Jokkoksoong, Deputy Chief of Thonglor Police Station, to make a strategic decision. Picture: Siam Rath Employing non-lethal measures, the police used batons and a TASER to subdue the individual. Upon apprehension, a black knife, measuring 11.5 inches, was found in Mr. Isara's right hand. He claimed to carry it for self-defense, leading to charges of "carrying a knife in a public place without reasonable cause." Emphasizing the need for ongoing training, Pol. Lt. Col. Natkittik highlighted the importance of law enforcement officers being well-prepared to handle such situations. Picture: Siam Rath This ensures the safety of both the public and the police during apprehensions. The incident showcased the effective use of batons and TASERs as tools to restrain individuals, ensuring a secure environment for everyone involved. Top Picture: Siam Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-01-10 - 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 your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok -- Authorities, including the National Parks Department, CIB police, and the Wildlife Suppression Task Force, nabbed three Vietnamese individuals involved in the illegal trade of protected fauna. The implicated trio, identified as Mr. Nguyen Din Dai (38), Mr. Nguyen Tien Thanh (39), and Mr. Nguyen Duy Quy (40), are now facing charges related to violations of wildlife protection statutes. A collaborative effort between the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division (NRECSD) and the Wildlife Suppression Task Force led to the apprehension of these three foreign nationals. Their possession of 21 helmeted hornbills, cleverly hidden within a modified Isuzu pickup truck, was uncovered, as well as their utilization of a cross-border passenger van adorned with Laotian lettering, reported 77kaoded. Picture: 77kaoded The charges include "illegally possessing protected wildlife" under the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act of 2019, Article 17 and 92, coupled with charges under the Criminal Code Article 83. Seized items include 21 helmeted hornbills, an Isuzu pickup truck, and a Lao-registered Hyundai passenger van. The arrests followed an investigation revealing a covert operation smuggling protected wildlife along with various goods in the modified cross-border passenger van. The suspects were intercepted in a parking lot in Ramintra Soi, Chorakhe Bua, Ladprao District, Bangkok. Upon inspection, officials found hidden compartments in the pickup truck carrying wildlife and arrested the three individuals. All confiscated items and wildlife, determined to be controlled species, were seized. Top Picture: 77kaoded -- ASEAN NOW 2024-01-10 - 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 your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email [email protected] for more information Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man murders father and sister in shocking drowning tragedy by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สมาคมหน่วยกู้ภัยสว่างพังโคน จ.สกลนคร 攀 空 善 堂 An unhinged Thai man confessed to murdering his father and older sister by convincing them to lie in a metal box, locking them inside, and subsequently dumping them in a pond in the Isaan province of Sakon Nakhon. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1316655-thai-man-murders-father-and-sister-in-shocking-drowning-tragedy/

An unhinged Thai man confessed to murdering his father and older sister by convincing them to lie in a metal box, locking them inside, and subsequently dumping them in a pond in the Isaan province of Sakon Nakhon. Locals in the Phang Khon district of Sakon Nakhon spotted two suspicious metal boxes in Nong Lum Hin pond at 12.40am today, January 9, and reported the discovery to a rescue team and officers from the Phang Khon Police Station. The rescuers retrieved the boxes from the pond and found that each box was locked and tied with thick chains. They cut off the chains and the lock and discovered two dead bodies. They were later identified as a 33 year old woman named Piangpen Datephumee and her 68 year old father named Prayat Datephumee. Officers reported that Piangpen and Prayat were thrown into the water while they were still alive. The initial autopsy showed that they died from lack of oxygen. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สมาคมหน่วยกู้ภัยสว่างพังโคน จ.สกลนคร 攀 空 善 堂 Full story: The Thaiger 2024-01-10 - 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