Thailand News Today for Tourists

40 Thai Firms Learning How to Export Seahorses

According to the fisheries department, there is high demand for seahorses in Thailand and other overseas countries. In fact, key export markets for seahorses include Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan.

Why is that so?

Some of the amazing seahorse characteristics means they are:

• Used to make souvenirs, such as keychains and decorative pins.
• Kept as aqua tank animals (e.g. in home aquariums).
• Sold as edible products for health benefits - especially in traditional Chinese medicine.

As a consequence of all this, the Department of Fisheries will train forty (40) firms about the techniques and the legal requirements needed for farming seahorses for exportation.

After meeting CITES regulations and acquiring a valid permit to farm seahorses, the aim is to meet some of the global demand and provide a boost income for several Andaman provinces (Krabi, Phang Nga, Phuket, Satun, and Trang).

Pro Tip: Our marine wildlife section contains more information about seahorse reproduction facts and why seahorses are one of the deadliest killers in aquatic environments.

Published: 15/05/2025

Pet Lovers to Get a New Dog Park in Lumpini Park

Following on from the roaring success of Benjakitti Dog Park, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is developing a dog park that will blend Thai cultural charm with serene Japanese garden vibes.

The design of the new dog center at Lumphini Park has designated areas for small and large dogs. It also has a fun exercise playground, a dog washing station, and a convenient waste disposal zone.

Published: 29/03/2025

Thailand's Getting Tougher on E-cigarettes

The strict penalties for anyone caught possessing, selling, importing, or using vapes are the subject of a renewed crackdown on e-cigarettes.

Under the leadership of the Thai Prime Minister, the government reversed its initial stance on legalisation. Instead, it now prioritises public health concerns, especially for teenagers.

As a result, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society blocked thousands of vape-related website URLs and removed multiple online advertisements, to support the nation's latest efforts to curb vaping.

Published: 28/03/2025

Government Targets "Shady" Nuad Thai Massage Services

The integrity of traditional Thai massage (นวดไทย) has once again caught the attention of the authorities. They are targeting "questionable" establishments that appear to be tarnishing the professional image and long-standing reputation.

Reports suggest there is a shortage of some 50,000 skilled practitioners. As a result, the Ministry of Public Health introduced a new initiative to distinguish unadulterated therapists from the "less than reputable" operators.

The aim of the new Skilled Local Massage Practitioner programme resulting in a tiered certification system is to ensure that therapists receive the proper training. A star-rating system should help customers identify services that offer legitimate muscle pain relief and stroke recovery.

Published: 28/03/2025

61% of Thai Population are Using QR Codes

According to global digital insights released by "DataReportal", Thailand took the third spot behind China and Malaysia for monthly QR code usage in 2024.

The majority of "Quick Response" transactions were carried out on smartphones by individuals aged sixteen (16) and older.

Pro Tip: The popularity of scanning this kind of 2D barcode data-storing code stems from its convenience and ease of use. It enables users to access information "quickly" - which can be the download of files or to make cashless payments for goods and services (e.g. at most 7-Eleven stores in Thailand).

Published: 27/03/2025

1,000 Year Old Stupa Excavated in Phayao

A dome-shaped structure with seven tiers unearthed in Phayao province is believed to be more than a thousand years old.

The stupa, excavated from a rice field near the Ban Chedi Ngam community (expropriated for the Den Chai–Chiang Rai–Chiang Khong railway project), appears to be a small section of an ancient temple.

Published: 26/03/2025

63 Heat Stroke Fatalities Reported in 2024

After leading to more than sixty fatalities last year, the deputy spokesperson once again urged people in Thailand to be extra cautious about the dangers of heatstroke (a core body temperature of 40° Celsius).

The highest risks occur around noon and the effects may lead to high body temperature, rapid breathing, dizziness, shock, and irregular heartbeat.

Furthermore, heatstroke can be fatal without prompt medical attention. It is especially a concern for Thai citizens who work outdoors.

According to data released by the Department of Disease Control for 2024, 63 heatstroke-related deaths were recorded (the victims aged 30 to 95 with an average age of 62).

The fatalities occurred across a total of thirty one (31) provinces in Thailand, with Udon Thani recording the highest number with nine (9) cases in 2024. The victims also had a range of chronic conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

Even though alcohol consumption and outdoor work both contributed to the risk, around 70% of deaths occurred during the month of April, when mid-day temperatures in Thailand often exceed 40° Celsius.

Pro Tip: Our scuba diving section contains more information about heat stroke symptoms and treatment and why having an elevated body temperature (thermoregulation failure) is likely to result in a medical emergency.

Published: 25/03/2025

New 24-Hour Online International Driving Permit Service

The Department of Land Transport (DLT) has launched a new 24/7 service that allows Thai citizens to apply for an international driving permit through the mobile app known as "Paotang".

As a result, the digital process totally eliminates the need to visit a DLT office in person. Instead, applicants can complete the application, verify their identity, and make a payment online from their mobile phone.

Pro Tip: The DLT reminds anyone planning a trip overseas during Thai New Year Songkran 2025 about the legal requirement of an international driving permit to drive in other countries. At the time of writing, the application fee is 505 baht with an additional postal delivery charge of sixty (60) baht.

Published: 25/03/2025

Thailand Offers Loan Guarantee to Boost Pickup Sales

A new programme set up to reduce risk and create extra incentives for financial institutions to approve loan applications aims to increase sales of pickup trucks by 6,250 units.

When production slumped to a four-year low in 2024, guaranteeing loans for pickup trucks should provide a welcome boost to sluggish sales in the automobile sector.

In fact, Thailand saw auto shipments decline by almost 9% last year as domestic sales plummeted by 26%. Pickup trucks account for about 33% of domestic auto sales nationwide.

Published: 24/03/2025

Korat Military Airbase Could Become Commercial Airport

The Thai authorities in Nakhon Ratchasima province (Korat) are considering a major conversion for Wing 1 military base. The plan looks set to turn the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) base into a commercial airport.

If it goes ahead, the project would take more than six years to complete and cost around 1.6 billion baht.

It follows similar projects that have already seen the conversion of two other military bases. One is U-Tapao International Airport (UTP) serving the Eastern Seaboard and the other is Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) - often called Bangkok's second airport.

Published: 23/03/2025

Thailand Maintains Number 1 Position for Orchid Exports

Once again, Thailand keeps its crown as the world's top exporter of orchids. The Department of Business Development (DBD) reported that exports of decorative plants were worth more than nine (9) billion baht (2023 to 2024).

The United States, Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam are the major importers of Thai decorative plants. Using superior technology and innovation to increase healthy growth, there are 2,993 flowers, decorative, and perennial plants businesses registered with the DBD in Thailand.

One of the largest Thai orchid farms is Sai Nam Phueng Farm in Chiang Mai province with other significant growers in Ratchaburi province, such as Neo Orchid Flower farm.

Published: 21/03/2025

Dugongs Seen Swimming with Dolphins Near Trat

A large herd of semi-nomadic dugongs (also known as sea cows) were spotted with six mother-calf pairs in the warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand, close to the coastline of Trat province.

The sightings, which took place at the end of February, were noted as marking the first dugong seen in the area for almost seven years.

Pro Tip: So, what's the difference between dugong and manatee? You can find out in our marine mammals section that focuses on the four (4) taxonomic groups that rely on some kind of marine ecosystem for their survival.

Published: 03/03/2025

Butterfly Season Arrives at Kaeng Krachan National Park

Thousands of butterflies gathered early this year searching for mineral-rich soil at the scenic spot of Ban Krang Campsite, Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi province.

This breathtaking event usually starts in March and runs through to the end of May. You can witness the spectacle at several butterfly-watching locations in Thailand.

But, you'll need to be there early if you want to see butterflies when they're most active. The best time to view them is between 8am and 10am (entrance fee 60 baht per person).

Published: 24/02/2025

Pattaya Daily News: International Kite Festival 2025

Kite lovers will be making their way to the holiday resort Pattaya for International Kite on the Beach 2025.

If you want to "fly your kite" you should head to the area that spans for one kilometre along the beach for this annual event from February 26th to March 2nd.

Published: 23/02/2025

First-ever Full Moon Party in Hua Hin

March the 15th 2025 will see the inaugural Full Moon Party taking place on the ochre-coloured "Hua Don Beach" located across from Khao Takiab in Prachuap Khiri Khan province.

Organisers hope to give tourism a boost in Hua Hin district by attracting local and international visitors. The party is set to feature performances by some of the top DJs from overseas. There will be an extensive light and sound system, along with food and drinks available along the beach.

Local police officers will be in attendance to enhance safety and tickets are priced at six hundred and fifty (650) baht per person (available through the Full Moon Party Facebook page)

Published: 21/02/2025

Phra Nakhon Khiri Festival Returns for 2025

This will be the 38th year of celebrating an incredible mix of culture, cuisine, and displays as Phra Nakhon Khiri Fair swings into action again in Phetchaburi town.

Make your way to the historical park from Friday the 21st of February for the annual fair and ten nights of memorable experiences.

The theme for this year's festival is "Viman Fha Phra Nakhon Khiri, the Jewel of Siam".

Anyone visiting the displays should expect to see amazing light installations that illuminate the iconic palace on top of the mountain.

In addition, there will be a packed programme of cultural performances that showcase some of the diverse heritage of western Thailand provinces.

Published: 21/02/2025

Vendors at Chatuchak Market Told to Move

City Hall has given marching orders to 529 stallholders who sell goods near the clock tower at Chatuchak Weekend Market, on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road.

The vendors have been given a deadline of the 30th of April to make way for planned redevelopment at one of the most popular markets in Bangkok.

Published: 20/02/2025

New Bus Service to Pattaya and Hua Hin from Bangkok Airports

March the 8th will see the launch of a new bus service running from two of the busiest Thailand airports (สนามบินในประเทศไทย).

The first-class shuttle service will run from Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports to Pattaya and Hua Hin.

The managing-director of state-run Transport Co announced four (4) round trips per day to Pattaya from Don Mueang airport priced at 155 baht (one way) and two (2) round trips per day between Don Mueang airport and Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan (200 baht each way).

Furthermore, he also said there will be four (4) round trips running from Suvarnabhumi airport to Pattaya. The distance of each two hour trip is about 127 kilometres and the fare would be 122 baht per trip.

Published: 19/02/2025

Meliá Hotels International Opening in Pattaya

The upcoming opening of Meliá Pattaya Hotel will be February the 15th. The 12-storey, 234-room luxurious Pattaya accommodation is located near 2nd road and boasts stunning views to the Gulf of Thailand.

Meliá Pattaya Hotel also has a rooftop restaurant and bar, an executive lounge, and swimming pool with an adjacent bar and event lawn.

Published: 12/02/2025

Prem Pracha Vana Rak Park Opens in Bangkok

Prem Pracha Vana Rak Park in Bangkok was officially opened by Their Majesties King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida on December 10, 2024.

The park is located near the Prem Prachakorn Canal in the district of Lak Si. It was transformed from an unused 10-rai (about 1.6-hectare) area into a public green space.

This new initiative aligns with many of the King's policies that focus on environmental improvement, water source rejuvenation, and the further enhancement and quality of life for Thai citizens.

Pro Tip: Another section lists some of the best parks in Bangkok for foreign visitors, including the Butterfly Garden and Insectarium.

Published: 11/02/2025

Thai Hotel ADR Hits a Record in December

December 2024 was a record high in the average daily rate (ADR) for the reservations of Thai hotels. The surge in demand (prompted by foreign tourists) pushed the rate up to 6,460 baht.

According to the "SiteMinder" database of more than 125 million global bookings, the average ADR through 2024 in Thailand increased from 4,648 baht in 2023 to 5,377 baht.

Pro Tip: Another section contains more information about hotel accommodation in central Bangkok with a wide range of places for expats and foreign visitors to stay.

Published: 25/01/2025

Free Public Transport in Bangkok

The Prime Minister responded to a worsening in air pollution (PM2.5) in the capital city of Thailand with an announcement of one week of free bus and electric train services (e.g. BTS Bangkok Skytrain).

Published: 24/01/2025

Underwater Dragon Dance Impresses Tourists in Bangkok

As Thailand gets ready to celebrate the annual Lunar New Year celebrations in 2025 tourists had a chance to see an underwater dragon dance performed by scuba divers in Bangkok.

Even if you are not a Chinese national, you can still check out your Chinese birthday year animal (e.g. your Thai zodiac year signs).

Published: 17/01/2025

Thailand News for Tourists 2024

Another section contains archives of Thailand Daily News from 2024 and creates a handy online resource for expats and tourists visiting the kingdom.

Thailand News for Tourists 2023

Another section contains archives of Thailand Daily News from 2023 and creates a handy online resource for expats and tourists visiting the kingdom.