Thailand's planned 20-baht flat fare for electric trains, originally set for October 1, has been postponed to mid-November due to legislative delays. Deputy PM Suriya Juangroongruangkit apologized for the setback, citing slow progress in passing two key bills in Parliament. An attempt to use emergency funds to launch the policy early was rejected for lacking urgency. The government now aims to fast-track the required laws, including potentially waiving a public hearing to expedite the process. Over 180,000 commuters have already registered for the scheme, which will remain open until the new launch date.

Thai-German actress Marie Broenner was charged with drunk driving after refusing an alcohol test at a Bangkok checkpoint early on August 24. Her companion, businessman Asakon "Boss" Singsikornkun, obstructed police and argued aggressively, claiming connections to high-ranking officers. Broenner repeatedly declined testing despite visible intoxication, leading to additional charges against Boss for insulting and hindering officers. Both were temporarily released on 20,000 baht bail, with Broenner required to appear in court. The incident echoes Boss’s prior scandal involving alleged abuse of his ex-wife, actress Cherreen Horvejkul.

An app-based motorcycle taxi rider in Bangkok fell asleep while driving, causing him to crash into a bridge railing at Ratchayothin Intersection. His female passenger, a Burmese national named Lwin Lwin Aye, was thrown from the bike and landed on a passing car, shattering its windshield and sustaining serious injuries. The rider, identified as Thanaphat, admitted to dozing off and was charged with reckless driving causing injury. He faces up to one month in prison or a 10,000 baht fine, with potential for more severe charges if the victim’s condition worsens. This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns with app-based motorcycle taxi services.

Thailand has approved a landmark five-year deal to host the world-renowned Tomorrowland music festival, marking its debut in Asia at Chonburi’s Wisdom Valley starting in late 2026. The government will allocate 10 million euros annually from its central fund to support the event, with a total budget of 2 billion baht endorsed for the initiative. This partnership, managed by the joint venture VR One World (Thailand), is projected to attract over a million tourists and generate more than 12 billion baht in economic impact. The festival received cross-ministerial support, including from the Ministry of Public Health and the Eastern Economic Corridor. Tomorrowland’s arrival positions Thailand as a premier global destination for major international events.

Phetchaburi province is proposing to permit alcohol sales on Cha-am beach during five major Buddhist holidays to stimulate tourism and local commerce. The plan, announced by Deputy Governor Wanpen Mungsri, would apply to Visakha Bucha, Asarnha Bucha, Makha Bucha, Buddhist Lent, and its end day, covering areas from the beach westward to Phetkasem Road. A public forum will gather feedback from residents and businesses before finalizing the decision. This initiative aligns with recent national easing of alcohol restrictions on religious holidays, though local officials will enforce measures to prevent public disturbances and youth access. The move aims to balance economic benefits with social responsibility.

Thai SmartLynx Airlines has received its first aircraft, an Airbus A320, marking its formal entry into Thailand’s aviation market. The 13-year-old jet arrived at Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport and is now registered under Thai ownership. The airline plans to specialize in ACMI leasing and charter flights, pending final regulatory approval. As part of the global SmartLynx group, it aims to support regional carriers with seasonal capacity needs. This move capitalizes on Thailand’s post-pandemic travel recovery and growing demand for flexible air services.

Pattaya is rapidly shifting from a carefree expat haven to a digitally regulated city, enforcing cashless payments, stricter visa rules, and heightened surveillance. Retirees and long-term foreigners struggle to adapt as loopholes for visa renewals and under-the-table transactions close. Banking has become more restrictive, with even basic services like opening accounts or obtaining driver’s licenses facing new hurdles. Critics attribute these changes to global pressures pushing Thailand toward a tech-driven surveillance model. The city’s transformation raises questions about whether its classic expat community can survive in this new, less forgiving digital landscape.

Thailand has declared martial law in the Ban Nong Chan area of Sa Kaeo province near the Cambodian border following disturbances instigated by Cambodian citizens. The military-established peacekeeping zone aims to protect national sovereignty and ensure public safety. Strict measures prohibit weapons, roadblocks, photography of operations, fighting, alcohol, and unauthorized loudspeakers. The move responds to escalating tensions and unauthorized incursions into Thai territory. Security forces are now fully deployed to enforce order in the designated zone.

The death toll from the Pang Ung landslide in Mae Chaem has risen to six after two more victims were recovered from the mud and debris. Rescue teams used excavators and chainsaws to retrieve the bodies of a 47-year-old woman and a 29-year-old man trapped under heavy logs. Three people remain missing as search efforts continue despite challenging conditions and thick mud. The village has been declared a disaster zone, with over eight homes destroyed and nearly 100 damaged. A local resident described the event as the worst natural disaster in the area in over 70 years.

Bangkok’s historic Sanam Luang has been temporarily closed for major renovations from August 25 to November 15. The Phra Nakhon District Office cited significant wear to the lawn and parking areas as the reason for the essential repairs. The refurbishment aims to prepare the iconic site for upcoming year-end events, including Father’s Day and New Year celebrations. While the lawn is closed immediately, the parking area will shut on September 16. Officials promise updated plans for public use will be shared once finalized.

Thailand’s Constitutional Court has ousted Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, ruling that her leaked audio call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen violated ethical standards. The court found her remarks about the Thai military and deference to Cambodian demands constituted a "grave breach of ethics," leading to her immediate removal. Two judges dissented, arguing the case lacked full evidence, but the majority upheld the decision. Paetongtarn is now barred from office, and parliament must swiftly select a successor. This ruling reignites political tensions and continues a pattern of judicial interventions against Shinawatra-linked leaders.

Robin Hood, Pattaya - Enjoy the best food & drink Pattaya has to offer at the fully airconditioned restaurant on the 2nd road - View the Robin Hood HERE

Scruffy Murphys, Bangkok - A traditional Irish pub in the center of Bangkok, yes please, there’s always a warm welcome, great food & a fantastic menu. Take a look at Scruffy Murphys HERE

Amba Sauna, Koh Samui - There’s something steamy going on just on the outskirts of Chaweng, enjoy a red hot sauna, healthy steam room or take the plubge in their ice plunge. PS did we mention their delicious menu? See what you’re missing out on HERE

4 - 8 Sept 2025
Mae Sai District

Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Akha people at the annual Swing Festivals in Mae Sai District this September! From September 4–8, Ban Phahee village hosts its lively celebration featuring the “Akha Cup” football tournament, sacred swing-building rituals, cultural performances, and local food contests, while Ban Pha Mee (September 6–8) offers an authentic highland experience with community-led ceremonies and swing ceremonies set against breathtaking natural scenery. These festivals provide a rare glimpse into Akha heritage, inviting visitors to witness rhythmic dances, taste traditional dishes, and participate in games that have united these communities for generations.

28 August - 7 Sept 2025
Sanehanusorn District, Hat Yai, Songkhla

Dive into the heart of Sanehanusorn District at the C’MON SANEHA Festival, where history, art, and community converge across three immersive layers and one iconic highlight. Explore interactive exhibitions and performances at Odean Department Store, wander through vibrant street installations along Sanehanusorn Road, and discover underground creativity with projection mapping and workshops at Lee Gardens Plaza. Don’t miss the revitalized Kimyong Market, where local vendors showcase refreshed branding and packaging designs—blending tradition with innovation for an unforgettable cultural experience.