Bangkok, 3 April 2024 – Prime Minister and Finance Minister, H.E. Mr. Srettha Thavisin, outlined his vision to ‘Ignite Tourism Thailand’ in 2025 with a multifaceted approach to establish the country as a tourism hub.- TAT Newsroom

 PM Srettha Thavisin outlines vision to 'Ignite Tourism Thailand'

Highlighting five strategies to ignite the country's tourism potential to secure a tourism hub status in 2025.

TAT Newsroom

Bangkok, 3 April 2024 – Prime Minister and Finance Minister, H.E. Mr. Srettha Thavisin, outlined his vision to 'Ignite Tourism Thailand' in 2025 with a multifaceted approach to establish the country as a tourism hub.

Prime Minister Srettha reiterated the government's commitment to boosting Thailand as a tourism hub to drive the economy and bring prosperity to the country. "The goal is to establish Thailand as a leading destination for tourists from around the world."

He stated that the government's target of 3.5 trillion Baht in tourism revenue this year, with an aim to earn much more in the coming years, would be achieved through five strategies.  

Conceptualised at the "Ignite Thailand's Tourism Workshop" held in Bangkok on 15 March 2024 with participation from public and private agencies, the strategies include elevating the tourist experience, promoting must-do activities, raising awareness of hidden-gem destinations, developing intra-regional travel linkage with neighbouring countries, and hosting more world-class events.

Tourism and Sports Minister, Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol said the five strategies aligned with the government's policy to make Thailand a global aviation hub, handling more than 150 million air travellers annually by 2030.

"In 2025, Thailand's tourism is set to experience growth on an unprecedented scale. The new 'Up Level, Add Story, Create Value' concept will enhance every step of the tourist journey across all touchpoints,"Minister Sudawan said.

Outlines for the five strategies include:

1: Elevating tourist experience

Steps will be taken to promote Thailand's tourism information and promotion to allow tourists to plan an informed trip to the country.

Existing measures will be strictly enforced to ensure tourist safety and convenience, including accessible 'Tourism for All', one-stop Tourist Police Hotline 1155, and universal coverage for emergency patients.

Travel facilitation will be further enhanced in the next three months. This includes improving queue management in airports, raising hotel standards, extending visa-free entry to more countries, enhancing tourist safety and security measures, and ensuring good maintenance and hygiene in public restrooms.

In the next six months, the government plans to push for the amendment of related tourism laws, including hotel regulations, alcohol restrictions, import duties on mega-event equipment, and VAT refund requirements.

2: Five must-do activities

Must Beat (Muay Thai) highlights four unique styles of ancient Thai boxing and presents the sport as a form of cardio exercise.

Must Eat (Thai food) promotes Thai kitchen to the world with 77 local dishes and 77 local desserts.

Must Seek (Thai culture) tells the story of a faith-based journey, cultural superstitions, and folklore culture.

Must Buy (Thai fabric) partners with world-renowned designers to turn Thai fabrics into fashion items.

Must See (Thai shows) showcases impressive traditional and contemporary performances.

3: Travel linkage between major and hidden-gem destinations

Promotion of travel linkage between well-established cities and hidden gems in lesser-known destinations is set to better balance the distribution of tourist arrivals and tourism income between urban and rural areas.

Recommended routes include Lanna Culture (Chiang Mai – Lamphun – Lampang), UNESCO Heritage Trail (Sukhothai – Kamphaeng Phet – Nakhon Ratchasima), NAGA Legacy (Nakhon Phanom – Sakon Nakhon – Bueng Kan), Paradise Islands (Trang – Satun), and The Wonder of Deep South (Pattani – Yala – Narathiwat).

4: Hub of ASEAN

Plans include promoting intra-region travel and helping to enhance the development and promotion of ASEAN as a single tourism destination, introducing the ASEAN Pass in partnership with airlines, and raising awareness of cross-border QR payment.

5: Word Class Event Hub

Incentives will be launched to attract major festivals, concerts, and events to Thailand, thus establishing the country as a centre of world-class events.

Upcoming world-class events include Summer Sonic Bangkok 2024, KAWS Arts, Moto GP, and Volleyball World Championship.

Minister Sudawan said, "These five strategies are planned to ignite Thailand to a tourism hub status to attract more tourists to the country and spending more time and budget, further boosting Thailand as the number one tourist destination."

From 1 January to 1 April 2024, Thailand recorded 9.4 million visitor arrivals, representing a 42 per cent increase over the same period in 2023.





Thailand Weather Forecast: Scorching Heatwave Blankets Country, Temperatures Reach Record Highs. On April 1st, 2024, the Thailand weather forecast publicly revealed a heat map of Thailand using colors to indicate the predicted temperatures from April 2nd to the 6th at 1:00 PM daily. As a result, the heat map showed black colors indicating scorching weather across Thailand.- The Pattaya News

Thailand Weather Forecast: Scorching Heatwave Blankets Country, Temperatures Reach Record Highs

Kittisak PhalaharnWednesday, 3 April 2024, 1:53

National—

On April 1st, 2024, the Thailand weather forecast publicly revealed a heat map of Thailand using colors to indicate the predicted temperatures from April 2nd to the 6th at 1:00 PM daily. As a result, the heat map showed black colors indicating scorching weather across Thailand.

The Thai Meteorological Department forecasted weather in April and revealed that the average temperatures were higher than normal rates. Total rainfall would be about 30 percent less than normal.

In the upper parts of Thailand, there was scorching weather and heat waves in many areas, with the highest temperature ranging from 43.0 to 44.5 degrees Celsius, especially in the northern and northeastern regions, as well as the upper parts of both the central and eastern regions.

However, there would be thunderstorms in many areas periodically, which could alleviate the heat because of the low-pressure areas caused by the hot weather covering the upper part of Thailand intermittently. Additionally, there would be southerly or southeastern winds almost throughout this period.

As for the southern region, there would be hot to scorching weather in many areas, with thunderstorms covering about 20 percent of the area, mostly towards the end of the month.

This was due to the influence of the eastern or southeastern winds covering the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region.

However, towards the end of the month, weather would begin to shift to the southwestern monsoon covering the Andaman Sea and the southern region.

In summary for this month, the average temperature was expected to be higher than normal, and the total rainfall would be lower than usual, approximately 30 percent.

This month tended to have summer storms, strong winds, and the possibility of falling hail in some areas. This could cause damage to buildings, homes, and agricultural areas.

Luckily, with Songkran beginning across Thailand, cold water from water fights would help cool people down in many areas.



PRESS RELEASE: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has reportedly endorsed the idea of establishing entertainment complexes with casinos in Thailand, highlighting the potential to transform illegal gambling operations into regulated entities that contribute to the state’s revenue. - The Pattaya News

Thai Prime Minister Endorsed Idea of Establishing Entertainment Complexes with Casinos

Goongnang SuksawatSaturday, 30 March 2024, 19:24

PRESS RELEASE:

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has reportedly endorsed the idea of establishing entertainment complexes with casinos in Thailand, highlighting the potential to transform illegal gambling operations into regulated entities that contribute to the state's revenue.

The proposal came as the House of Representatives approved a feasibility report on the subject. The prime minister earlier addressed concerns about possible social repercussions, emphasizing that strict regulations and oversight by security agencies, as well as local officials, would mitigate negative effects.

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat detailed the economic advantages identified in the study, such as job creation, tourism enhancement, and the reduction of illicit gambling activities. The recommendation includes legislative support for these complexes, which are planned to include a mix of hotels, shopping malls, and amusement parks, each demanding an investment of at least 100 billion baht. The initial complex is proposed for the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), with the possibility of expansion based on its success.

The committee also explored regulatory frameworks inspired by Singapore and the US to ensure responsible operation. A portion of the revenue would support a fund dedicated to mitigating gambling's adverse effects. The study now moves to the cabinet for further deliberation, with the possibility of broader consultations before any legislative action.

Amidst these developments, civil society networks from 16 provinces have voiced their opposition, citing concerns over social issues such as family disruptions and gambling addiction.

The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.

Chinese flocking here for plastic surgery, infertility treatment. THE VISA-FREE access to Thailand by Chinese tourists has led a large number of them inquiring and then deciding to undergo plastic surgery, infertility treatment as well as general medical examination here, Matichon newspaper said this evening (Mar. 30).- Thai Newsroom

Chinese flocking here for plastic surgery, infertility treatment

March 30, 2024  TNR Staff

THE VISA-FREE access to Thailand by Chinese tourists has led a large number of them inquiring and then deciding to undergo plastic surgery, infertility treatment as well as general medical examination here, Matichon newspaper said this evening (Mar. 30).

Mr. Sitthi Panupattnapong, chairman of Synphaet Co. Lt.'s board of directors, said the visa waiver had turned the foreign medical market more lively with Chinese finding it convenient to fly here for treatment.

However patients from Middle Eastern countries usually come here for more difficult treatments including heart problems, cancer, gastrointestinal problems and knee replacement.

He added that of his company's seven hospitals it is Synphaet Srinakarin that treats foreign patients with most of them being from Taiwan and the Middle East.

He is optimistic and the free-visa scheme which makes it convenient for patients to fly here will increase the number of foreign patients by 10% this year.

Moreover patients usually come with their relatives and stay long with this boosting tourism revenue.

Citizens of other countries too want Thailand to open the door for visa-free entry, Sitthi added.

Thailand and China signed an agreement for a mutual visa-free entry for citizens of both countries on January 28, 2024, which officially came into effect on March 1, 2024.

Thailand previously granted temporary visa exemption for Chinese tourists from  Sept. 25, 2023 to Feb. 29 2024.

The previous temporary visa exemption scheme for Kazakhstani tourists, which started on  September 25, 2023 ended on 29 February 2024, was extended till August 31, 2024.

On October 31, 2023, the visa exemption scheme was extended to India and Taiwan for not more than 30-day stay with this running from Nov. 10, 2023 to May 10, 2024.

CAPTION:

Representative image of Chinese people flocking here for plastic surgery. Photo: Matichon



AOT Opens Grab Taxi Service at Suvarnabhumi Airport to Provide More Convenient, Fast and Safe Travel Options for Passengers. AOT Corporate Communications

 AOT Opens Grab Taxi Service at Suvarnabhumi Airport to Provide More Convenient, Fast and Safe Travel Options for Passengers

Bangkok, Thailand – March 28, 2024 – Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) has partnered with GrabTaxi (Thailand) Co., Ltd. to open a Grab service center at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). The center will provide information, assistance, and a pick-up point for passengers and users of the Grab application.

Dr. Kitipong Kitimanawat, President of AOT, said that the opening of the Grab service center is in line with the government's policy to promote Thailand's airports to be among the top 20 in the world. He said that AOT is committed to providing convenient, fast, and safe transportation options for passengers.

Ms. Methinee Anwarakul, Assistant Managing Director for Passenger Business and Driver Partner Management, Grab Thailand, said that Grab is pleased to partner with AOT to provide its services at Suvarnabhumi Airport. She said that Grab is committed to providing a safe and reliable transportation option for passengers.

The Grab service center is located on the first floor of the passenger terminal, Gate 4. It is open 24 hours a day.

Passengers can use the Grab application to call a Grab taxi, Grab car, or Just Grab. They can then pick up their ride at the designated pick-up point.

AOT plans to expand the Grab service to other airports in its network in the future**.

For more information, please contact:

AOT Corporate Communications

Tel: +66 2 535 5240, +66 2 535 5245

Email: aot_media@airportthai.co.th

Website: www.airportthai.co.th

Bangkok Post - Immigration warns of fake ‘fast-track service’. The Immigration Bureau has warned tourists not to fall victim to online advertisements that offer fast-track immigration service for 2,900 baht per flight at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports.

Immigration warns of fake 'fast-track service'

(Photo: Screen grab from Richcarsbangkok.net) 

The Immigration Bureau has warned tourists not to fall victim to online advertisements that offer fast-track immigration service for 2,900 baht per flight at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports.

Pol Maj Gen Choengron Rimphadee, commander of Immigration Division 2, said a car-rental company called Richcarsbangkok recently posted such advertisements in English on its website.

The English-language ad offered "Fast track arrival-departure 2,900 baht/flight" to entice foreign tourists to use its service without having to queue at immigration counters at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports.

Immigration Division 2 launched an investigation and concluded that the ads were false, said Pol Maj Gen Choengron.

While immigration counters do not provide fast-track services at any airports, he said, passport checking procedures have been improved and shortened to expedite the flow of tourist arrivals and departures in response to recent complaints.

During peak flight arrival and departure periods, he said, waiting times at immigration counters were no more than 15 minutes and it was not necessary for passengers to use fast-track services.

There is a special arrivals lane that gives priority to the disabled with caretakers, children and their parents, the elderly and holders of diplomatic and official passports, holders of Thailand Elite Card, Thai long-stay and Apec cards only, he said.

At the departure level, Airports of Thailand (AoT) has a fast-track lane at Suvarnabhumi airport for business card passengers, smart visa holders, the disabled, the elderly and crew members only, said Pol Maj Gen Choengron.

He warned people not to fall victim to false advertisements. Immigration officers are now checking whether there were other websites or social media pages claiming to provide fast-track immigration services. Legal action would be taken against those involved, he said.



Suvarnabhumi Immigration Adjusts Procedures to Accommodate Foreign Visitors During Summer. On March 25th, Police Lieutenant General Kittirat Ratana, Deputy Director of the Airport Authority, along with other immigration officials, conducted an inspection. They assessed whether the Prime Minister's directives had been implemented and addressed any issues, particularly during peak passenger times, reported Siam Rath. ASEAN NOW 2024-03-26

 

Suvarnabhumi Airport immigration officials inspected readiness as the summer approaches. Following a recent incident on February 24th, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin visited the immigration area unannounced and expressed dissatisfaction with certain operational aspects, particularly immigration processes. He urged immigration authorities to assess peak passenger times and streamline services accordingly.

 

Picture: Siam Rath

 

On March 25th, Police Lieutenant General Kittirat Ratana, Deputy Director of the Airport Authority, along with other immigration officials, conducted an inspection. They assessed whether the Prime Minister's directives had been implemented and addressed any issues, particularly during peak passenger times, reported Siam Rath.

 

Kittirat Ratana reported adjustments in passport inspection processes at immigration counters, reducing entry time from 45 to 30 seconds. Automatic passport scanners now expedite the process in just 20 seconds.

 

Picture: Siam Rath

 

In cases of heavy passenger traffic, additional immigration staff are deployed to assist, ensuring efficient service delivery.

 

Furthermore, infrastructure and biometric systems at immigration checkpoints have been upgraded to prevent system failures.

 

Picture: Siam Rath

 

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed concern about the upcoming influx of foreign visitors in the fourth quarter and emphasized preparedness across all immigration units.

 

Today's inspection reaffirmed the airport's commitment to efficient immigration service provision.

 

-- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-26

"Strictly screen foreigners entering and leaving the Kingdom", Deputy Chief of police. Police now claim that some of the recent cases “pose significant threats to societal order”. So, Pol. Gen. Roy Ingpairoj, Deputy Chief of the Royal Thai Police, is taking decisive action. He has publicly issued a number of public directives to the Commissioner of Immigration, “mandating stricter enforcement of immigration laws”.- phuketGO

"Strictly screen foreigners entering and leaving the Kingdom", Deputy Chief of police

By

Peter Roche 

Monday, March 25, 2024 15:48

As Thailand's tourism industry roars back to full speed, and attracting many new nationalities to the Land of Smiles, there has been a noticeable uptick in cases reported involving foreigners violating the law. Statistically, the rise has not been significant, but the reporting and social media frenzy over recent incidents, is spurring the police and Thai immigration officials into a reactive stance.

Police now claim that some of the recent cases "pose significant threats to societal order". So, Pol. Gen. Roy Ingpairoj, Deputy Chief of the Royal Thai Police, is taking decisive action. He has publicly issued a number of public directives to the Commissioner of Immigration, "mandating stricter enforcement of immigration laws".

Even as turmoil swirls in the upper ranks of Thailand's police force (the Chief of the Royal  Thai Police and one of his high profile deputies are currently transferred to desk duties at the prime minister's office pending an investigation into allegations of corruption involving some online gambling gangs), Pol. Gen. Roy Ingpairoj has issued the orders that will, at the very least, shine a spotlight on some, or many, visa renewals, the issuance of new long-term visas, and greater scrutiny on tourists arriving into the Kingdom.

He says that it has come to light that "certain individuals" from abroad have "unlawfully entered Thailand" with "hidden agendas". These individuals have demonstrated a blatant disregard for Thai laws, and their presence in the country has proven to be detrimental rather than beneficial.

"Their actions have inflicted harm upon Thai society, economy, politics and national security."

In the past, the, then, deputy commissioner of Thai Immigration, Surachate Hakparn, coined the phrase "good guys in, bad guys out". These new directives are a more specific, and aggressive, gesture towards foreigners living in Thailand that have short-circuited the immigration laws or visas.

To curb and prevent instances of foreigners who are granted temporary stay in the Kingdom of Thailand from engaging in criminal activities, causing disruptions, or posing threats to the peace, security, or national interests of the populace, the following instructions (quoted directly from an article by khaosodenglish.com) have been issued…

1. Strictly screen foreigners entering and leaving the Kingdom. This includes the consideration of applications for extensions of stay, visa stamping, and changes in visa status. All relevant laws, regulations, and orders must be strictly follow
2. Investigate and prosecute all crimes committed by foreigners. This includes violations of the Immigration Act, the Alien Employment Act, the Entertainment Places Act, illegal business operations, nominee arrangements where Thai nationals hold shares or real estate ownership on behalf of foreigners to avoid legal compliance. The behavior of foreigners should also be investigated to determine if they have any mafia-like influence. Cooperation with relevant agencies is required for integrated law enforcement.
3. Revoke the stay permits of foreigners who are found to be staying in the Kingdom without a legitimate reason or who have other behaviors that warrant the revocation of their permits. This should be done in accordance with the Immigration Act.



Heavy Rain Causes Terrible Flash Floods in Sri Racha, Chonburi. — Two hours of heavy rainfall triggered devastating flash floods in several areas of Sri Racha district, Chonburi province, on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024. - The Pattaya News

Heavy Rain Causes Terrible Flash Floods in Sri Racha, Chonburi

Aim TanakornWednesday, 20 March 2024, 10:56

Sri Racha, Chonburi —

Two hours of heavy rainfall triggered devastating flash floods in several areas of Sri Racha district, Chonburi province, on Tuesday, March 19th, 2024.

A video of the flooding can be found here.

According to The Pattaya News reporters, the most significant flooding occurred at the intersection under the Nong Yai Bu Bridge in the Nong Kho area of Nong Kham sub-district. Water levels rose to nearly 1 meter, totally blocking small cars and motorcycles from passing.

The Pattaya News reporters observed motorcycles submerged in the floodwaters, forcing motorists to push them through the current. This resulted in significant traffic congestion in the area.

Similar situations unfolded in other parts of Sri Racha. Heavy rain pounded the Pinthong Road area in Mab Aeng, Nong Kham sub-district, terribly flooding the entire road. Water cascaded from nearby hills also added to the devastation, leading to several cars nearly being submerged to the roof.

Flooding was also reported at the entrance of Supalai Park Ville. Due to the low-lying nature of the area, water inundated the road, making passage extremely difficult.

Several provinces of Thailand experienced heavy rainfall this morning, March 20th, as well including Bangkok.



Bangkok Post - More baht depreciation. The baht is expected to slide further after falling below 36 to the US dollar on Tuesday as the Bank of Japan opted to hike the interest rate for the first time in 17 years, which failed to help Asian currencies. The market expects the Federal Reserve to keep US rates unchanged on Thursday, which could strengthen the dollar, said Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).

More baht depreciation

A man walks past a forex kiosk in Bangkok. (File photo: Somchai Poomlard) 

The baht is expected to slide further after falling below 36 to the US dollar on Tuesday as the Bank of Japan opted to hike the interest rate for the first time in 17 years, which failed to help Asian currencies.

The market expects the Federal Reserve to keep US rates unchanged on Thursday, which could strengthen the dollar, said Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research).

The Thai currency was quoted at 36.07 to the greenback Tuesday afternoon after slipping to a two-week low of 36.04 in early morning trade and closing on Monday at 35.98, said Kanjana Chockpisansin, head of the research, banking and financial sector at the think tank.

K-Research now predicts the baht to trade at 36.20-30 to the dollar later this week, she told the Bangkok Post.

The yen dipped Tuesday to below 150 to the dollar after the Bank of Japan raised its key interest rate from -0.1% to a range of 0%-0.1%, the first rise since 2007, following Japan's biggest companies agreeing last Friday to raise wages by 5.28% for 2024.

The hike means there are no countries with negative interest rates.

The central bank also abandoned its radical yield curve control policy for Japanese sovereign bonds and abolished the purchase of high-risk assets such as exchange-traded funds.

However, the regulator said it would keep buying long-term government bonds.

"The Bank of Japan's decision on rates is quite minimal and the market expected this kind of move, so it failed to improve the sentiment for other Asian countries," said Ms Kanjana.

"No additional measures are likely to be launched by the bank at its next meeting late next month."

The Fed is expected to keep the US interest rate unchanged on Thursday, which could make the dollar appreciate further against Asian currencies, according to K-Research.

"The market expects the Fed will delay the first rate cut of the year from June to the second half, with less than three reductions this year," she said.

"The baht could trade at around 36.30 to the dollar by the end of the week, but if the Fed upgrades the US economic growth forecast, hinting rate cuts may be delayed further, then the dollar could strengthen and pressure a deeper baht slide."



Immigration officers told to increase screening of foreigners in Thailand. Foreigners in Thailand can expect increased scrutiny from the authorities in the wake of several high-profile criminal cases. Khaosod English reports that police have been issued new instructions to strictly enforce immigration laws. Following two separate assault cases involving Swiss nationals, and the more recent case of two New Zealanders allegedly assaulting a Phuket police officer, the authorities are promising to ‘get tough’.- phuketGO

Immigration officers told to increase screening of foreigners in Thailand

By

Peter Roche 

Tuesday, March 19, 2024 11:32

Foreigners in Thailand can expect increased scrutiny from the authorities in the wake of several high-profile criminal cases. Khaosod English reports that police have been issued new instructions to strictly enforce immigration laws.

Following two separate assault cases involving Swiss nationals, and the more recent case of two New Zealanders allegedly assaulting a Phuket police officer, the authorities are promising to 'get tough'.

Roy Ingpairoj, deputy chief of the Royal Thai Police, has issued instructions to the Commissioner of Immigration calling for increased scrutiny of foreigners in Thailand. In particular, the authorities are targeting those who have entered the kingdom illegally and who have ulterior motives for being here.

Newly-issued instructions include…

• All foreigners entering and leaving the kingdom to be strictly screened. Enhanced screening will also apply to those seeking extensions of stay, visa stamps, and any change in visa status.

• All crimes committed by foreigners to be investigated and prosecuted, including violations of the Immigration Act, the Alien Employment Act, the Entertainment Places Act, illegal business operations, nominee arrangements where Thai nationals own shares or real estate on behalf of foreigners to avoid legal compliance.

• Foreign residents will be investigated to determine if they have any connection to mafia-like criminals.

• Revoke the visas of foreign nationals found to be in the kingdom without a valid reason or who engage in criminal behaviour, in accordance with the Immigration Act.

In addition, the Immigration Bureau has been told to come up with an action plan and a schedule for comprehensive, ongoing inspections across all areas.

Each arrest made must be further investigated and the results reported by the 10th of every month, beginning April 10.

SOURCE: Khaosod English

PRESS RELEASE: The government has announced plans to make 2025 a landmark year for tourism, aiming to position Thailand as a premier destination with a series of cultural events, concerts, festivals, and an international motor racing series. - The Pattaya News

Government Announced Plans to Make 2025 Landmark Year for Tourism

Goongnang SuksawatSaturday, 16 March 2024, 20:14

PRESS RELEASE:

The government has announced plans to make 2025 a landmark year for tourism, aiming to position Thailand as a premier destination with a series of cultural events, concerts, festivals, and an international motor racing series.

During a recent brainstorming session for the "Ignite Thailand: Tourism" strategy, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin highlighted the nation's ambition to become a global hub across eight sectors, including tourism and the digital economy.

The prime minister emphasized the government's commitment to enhancing the tourism experience, citing the introduction of temporary visa exemptions for visitors from several countries and a reciprocal visa exemption agreement with China as key initiatives. Efforts are also underway to secure visa-free travel arrangements with European Schengen area states, aiming to simplify access for international tourists.

To accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors, the government is focusing on infrastructure improvements and immigration system upgrades. Srettha mentioned that his discussions with Formula E executives during trips to Germany and France have sparked interest in hosting the electric-car racing championship in Thailand, with Chiang Mai province being considered as a potential venue.

Additionally, the central administration is leveraging Thailand's cultural heritage to promote local products and crafts through partnerships with major retail business operators. The initiative, dubbed "Thainess Station: Thai Products Unify Thai Communities," is set to showcase traditional Thai handicrafts in shopping malls and airports, enhancing the visibility of local communities' work.

The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.

In the blistering heat of midday last Friday, March 8, a frenzy of ravenous monkeys cascaded down from Khao Sam Muk, invading Bang Saen Beach in Chon Buri province. With desperation in their eyes, the furry bandits eagerly awaited sustenance from unsuspecting tourists, with some even resorting to car-climbing antics in a desperate bid for food. The Thaiger

Tourists attacked as hungry monkeys swarm Bang Saen Beach

Mitch ConnorPublished: 17:53, 12 March 2024

The official schedule for the "Big Days" of Songkran. Pattaya News

Chonburi and Pattaya officials released the official schedule for the "Big Days" of Songkran for each area of Chonburi today. Wan Lai means day of water. Keep in mind some areas, notably tourist parts of Pattaya, will celebrate for days prior to the big day.

14 April 2024 : Wan Lai at Phanat Nikhom District
15 April 2024 :Wan Lai Phan Thong District
16 April 2024 : Wan Lai Wat Tham
16 April 2024 : Wan Lai Bang Saen
17 April 2024 : Wan Lai Soi Nern-Wat Suthawas
17 April 2024 : Wan Lai Bangsaen
18 April 2024 : Wan Lai Na Kluea
18 April 2024 : Wan Lai Koh Larn
19 April 2024 : Wan Lai Pattaya
20 April 2024 : Wan Lai Bang Saray
21 April 2024 : Wan Lai Map Ta Phut
21 April 2024 : Wan Lai Ban Khai (Wat Phai Lom)
22 April 2024 : Wan Lai Ban Bueng

#Pattaya #WanLai #Chonburi #Bangsaen