Thailand’s Department of Land Transport (DLT) has partnered with Krungthai Bank to enable annual vehicle tax payments through the Pao Tang app, eliminating in-person visits. The service delivers tax marks by mail while allowing a 15-day digital temporary permit, streamlining the process for over 40 million app users. This follows the success of the app’s international driving permit feature, which processed 51,000 requests since December. Future plans include online license renewals by 2026 and digital health check integration. The move aligns with Thailand’s Open Digital Platform strategy to modernize public services.

A popular Prachachuen nightclub was raided early August 10 after reports of illegal operations and drug use, startling over 300 patrons. During the surprise inspection, attendees scrambled to discard drugs, with 16 testing positive for substances. The venue, already under scrutiny for its owner’s ties to another controversial bar, was found operating past legal hours and charging extra for late entry. Officials detained the positive-testing patrons and management, proposing a five-year closure for violating operating hours and permitting drugs. The raid aligns with a national crackdown on illicit nightlife activities.

A Bangkok-bound express train derailed early this morning near Kui Buri station in Prachuap Khiri Khan, detaching three sleeper carriages and injuring 10 passengers, though none critically. Emergency teams evacuated passengers from unaffected carriages and arranged alternate transport while officials worked to clear the tracks. The incident caused temporary delays for northbound services, though southbound trains continued operating normally. Authorities are investigating the cause, with initial focus on potential track or mechanical failures. The State Railway of Thailand emphasized passenger safety as their top priority amid ongoing recovery efforts.

Bereaved families honored the 520 victims of Japan Airlines' 1985 Osutaka Ridge crash by floating handmade lanterns on the Kanna River, marking 39 years since the tragedy. Asato Kawaguchi, 24, paid tribute to his grandfather Hirotsugu, who died at 52, leaving behind a will that read, "I had a happy life." Kawaguchi vowed to live meaningfully, reflecting on his grandfather’s words while emphasizing aviation safety’s unseen sacrifices. The ceremony blended silent prayers with messages of remembrance, underscoring the enduring grief of Japan’s deadliest air disaster. Survivors and relatives urged the public never to forget the lives lost—or the lessons learned.

A rare black panther made a stunning appearance for wildlife tourists at Kui Burri National Park on August 12, showcasing Thailand's thriving biodiversity. The protected big cat, part of the UNESCO-listed Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex, delighted visitors while highlighting successful conservation efforts. Park officials reminded guests to observe wildlife responsibly by keeping quiet and maintaining distance. This encounter underscores the park's ecological richness and the importance of sustainable eco-tourism. For rangers and conservationists, such sightings validate years of preservation work.

Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC) has issued a warning after a venomous blue sea slug—commonly called a "blue dragon"—was found washed ashore at Karon Beach in Phuket. The creature stores potent stinging cells from its prey, making its venom more dangerous than jellyfish stings. Authorities advised swimmers to wear protective clothing and heed warning signs, especially after rain. If stung, victims should rinse with vinegar, avoid scratching, and seek urgent medical help. The DDC emphasized the risk to allergy sufferers and urged caution along coastal areas.

Princess Bajrakitiyabha remains under intensive care at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital after collapsing from a heart condition in December 2022. Her treatment has included lung and kidney support, with recurring infections managed by antibiotics since August 2025. Doctors recently diagnosed a severe bloodstream infection, requiring aggressive antibiotic therapy and blood pressure stabilization. The royal medical team is closely monitoring her condition while providing comprehensive care. The Bureau of the Royal Household confirmed these updates in its fourth health statement.

Phuket is pursuing special administrative area status to solve critical infrastructure and environmental issues like water shortages, waste management, and road safety, with Governor Sophon Suwannarat citing budget limitations (170M baht) as a key hurdle. Key projects include the Patong Tunnel (targeting 2030 completion), a long-distance water pipeline from Surat Thani, and a new 1,200-tonne waste incinerator. Old Town revitalization plans aim to boost tourism through traffic solutions, heritage protection, and branded souvenirs like the ‘Chartered Bear’. The province is also partnering with tourism groups to promote Phuket as a food destination and bury overhead cables. These efforts seek to transform Phuket’s sustainability while avoiding tax hikes.

Thailand is leading diplomats to Si Sa Ket to document evidence of newly planted Cambodian PMN-2 mines along the border, violating the Ottawa Convention. The move follows multiple Thai soldier injuries, with Bangkok asserting the devices are recent deployments—not legacy mines. Officials briefed 41 nations and four international bodies, urging Cambodia to cease mine use and cooperate on clearance. Thailand has escalated protests through UN channels and plans to raise the issue at upcoming Regional Border Committee talks. The findings from this weekend’s fact-finding trip will bolster Thailand’s case for international action.

Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has lifted its temporary drone ban from August 16-31, 2025, permitting flights under strict conditions. Drones remain prohibited in border provinces, military zones, near airports, and Sattahip/Rayong districts, with operations limited to daylight hours (6 AM–6 PM). Operators must submit flight plans 3 days in advance via the UAS Portal and notify police. CAAT cited improved security but emphasized compliance to balance safety and economic needs. Agricultural drone users are urged to register ahead of upcoming regulatory updates.

A Thai grocery store owner in Pathum Thani shared a TikTok video of her husband calmly watching a Burmese man steal snacks, sparking amusement online. The footage showed the thief brazenly filling a bucket while the husband passively questioned him, prompting netizens to praise his restraint. Later, the husband chased and recovered the snacks, discovering the thief likely had mental health issues. The couple chose not to involve police, opting for compassion instead. The viral clip highlighted both humor and humanity in an unexpected theft.

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

20 -23 August 2025
Hall 1-4, G Floor, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Bangkok

Food & Hospitality Thailand (FHT) 2025 marks its 31st edition as a cornerstone of Thai Tourism & Hospitality Week, uniting global leaders under the theme "Connecting Excellence in Food & Hospitality." This premier event spotlights cutting-edge innovations, from culinary tech to sustainable hospitality solutions, while fostering partnerships that elevate Thailand’s tourism landscape. Attendees gain access to trendsetting exhibitors, knowledge-sharing forums, and hands-on demonstrations—all designed to inspire growth and redefine industry standards. Whether you’re a chef, hotelier, or entrepreneur, FHT 2025 is the ultimate catalyst for business transformation in Asia’s vibrant food and hospitality scene.

22 -24 August 2025
Prachinburi National Museum, Prachinburi

Prachinburi Night at the Museum 2025 transforms the Prachinburi National Museum into a magical after-dark cultural hub from August 22–24, blending history with modern festivities. Visitors can explore illuminated nighttime tours, witness sacred rituals honoring Thailand’s 1,400-year-old Ganesha statue, and enjoy four captivating light-and-sound performances tracing the region’s journey from the Dvaravati to Rattanakosin eras. The event also features live music by local students, a bustling market of handmade crafts, and over 30 food stalls serving authentic Prachinburi flavors—all under the stars for an unforgettable fusion of heritage and celebration.