Author

Greg Jorgensen

Creator of the award-winning travel blog Siam Stories and host of Thai Tourism Board official podcast (2008-2024). Former Lonely Planet contributor and author of three bestselling guidebooks on Thailand. Relocated from Portland to Bangkok in 2003 and never looked back.

708 articles

Jul 3, 2025

Hey there, it's Richard. Been up since the crack of dawn, watching the tide roll in over Maenam Beach. There's something about mornings here that Bukowski would've loved - raw, unfiltered, with a hint of melancholy mixed with pure, unadulterated beauty.

Just finished my morning coffee from the little street vendor down the lane. His brew is like liquid poetry - strong enough to wake the ghosts of a thousand hangovers, smooth enough to make you forget whatever demons were chasing you yesterday.

Jan 28, 2025

Understanding Flood Disaster Relief in 2024

🚨🌧️ Flood Relief Update for 2024! If you're affected by the recent floods, check your relief status online at the official portal and call for personalized assistance. Stay safe! 💪💙 FloodRelief 2024DisasterSupport StaySafe CommunitySupport DisasterResponse HelpIsHere

Jan 27, 2025

Navigating the Voting Rights Notification Process in Surat Thani

🌟 Hey Surat Thani! If you can't make it to the polls, use the Smart Vote platform to share your absence and make your voice heard from anywhere! 💪🗳️ SuratThaniVotes SmartVote DemocracyInAction VoteFromAnywhere YourVoiceMatters ThailandElections CivicEngagement Empowerment StayConnected

Jan 24, 2025

Understanding Your Voting Rights in Surat Thani

Surat Thani, it's time to make your voice count in the Provincial Administrative Organization Council elections on February 1, 2025! If you can't vote in person, remember to notify the authorities and check out the Smart Vote app for assistance!

Jan 21, 2025

Exercise Your Right to Vote in Koh Samui

🗳️ Koh Samui, it's time to make your voice heard! Join us on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 08:00 to 17:00 to vote and help shape the future of Thailand! 🇹🇭💪 KohSamui Vote2025 ThailandElections MakeADifference ExploreThailand IslandLife TravelGoals TourismThailand

Jan 14, 2025

Celebrating a Momentous Royal Milestone

✨ On January 14, 2015, the Koh Samui community gathered at Wat Plai Laem to honor His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej in a heartfelt ceremony led by Vice Mayor Pakorn Kanjanopas. 🌅 This significant day celebrated 26,469 days of the King's remarkable legacy! 🇹🇭

Jan 14, 2025

A Day of Significance

Join us on January 14, 2025, as we celebrate a historic day in Thailand when His Majesty the King reaches 26,469 days old, matching the legacy of King Rama I! The people of Koh Samui are filled with joy and pride, honoring our rich history with heartfelt shouts of "Long live the King!" 👑💖

Jan 13, 2025

Essential Registration for Home-Based Workers

Attention homebased workers! From December 16, 2024, to January 15, 2025, you can register to elect representatives for the Home Workers' Protection Committee and make your voice heard. Let's unite to advocate for our rights! 💪 HomeWorkers Empowerment LabourRights Advocacy SupportLocal WorkersUnited MakeADifference

Jan 10, 2025

Celebrating a Royal Legacy: Coronation Anniversary Event

🌟 Join us on January 14, 2025, at 7 AM to honor His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn and celebrate the 70th anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great at Wat Laem Suwannaram! 🇹🇭✨ Come dressed in traditional Thai attire or shades of yellow to pay your respects and partake in sacred chants and a grand ceremony. 🙏💛

Jan 9, 2025

Inspection of Public Service Vehicle Parking on Chaweng Beach Road

Experience the nighttime magic on Chaweng Beach Road as local officials work tirelessly to enhance parking for tourists! 🌟✨ Thanks to their dedication, Koh Samui continues to shine as a premier destination for all! KohSamui ChawengBeach Tourism IslandParadise ExploreSamui Nightlife TravelGoals VisitThailand

Dec 21, 2024

Koh Samui Welcomes Tourists with Open Arms

Koh Samui warmly welcomed 2,200 international guests from the AIDASTELLA cruise ship, showcasing its cultural richness and stunning beauty. From traditional exchanges to unforgettable adventures, the island continues to shine as a premier travel destination! 🌴✨

Dec 19, 2024

Elevating Public Transportation: Koh Samui's Initiative for 2025

Exciting times for Koh Samui as it launches a public transportation training program on December 19, 2024! This initiative aims to boost safety and efficiency while paving the way for sustainable tourism on the island. 🌴✨ KohSamui SustainableTourism PublicTransport ExploreParadise TravelThailand IslandLife CommunityEmpowerment EcoFriendlyTravel

Dec 13, 2024

Empowering the Next Generation: Democracy Seedling Youth Workshop

Just concluded the inspiring "Democracy Seedling Youth" workshop at Koh Samui Vocational College, where young minds engaged with insightful leaders and explored the essence of democratic values. 🌱✨ Huge thanks to all participants for becoming our young democracy seedlings, ready to lead change in the future! 💪💚

Dec 5, 2024

Celebrating a Day of Dual Significance: National Day and Father's Day

🇹🇭✨ December 5 is a momentous occasion in Thailand, celebrating National Day and Father's Day in honor of King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great. Join the Koh Samui community as we embrace the spirit of gratitude, love, and unity on this unforgettable day! 💖

Dec 2, 2024

Traffic Management Initiative on Chaweng Beach Road

Exciting changes are on the horizon for Chaweng Beach Road! Starting December 5, 2024, a new traffic management initiative will enhance the journey and accessibility around Koh Samui.

Nov 27, 2024

Chaweng Beach Road Traffic Management Initiative

Exciting changes are coming to Ko Samui! Starting December 5, 2024, Chaweng Beach Road will feature a new traffic management system, making your visit even more enjoyable! 🌴✨ KoSamui ChawengBeach TrafficManagement IslandParadise TravelThailand ExploreSamui VisitThailand BeachLife TropicalGetaway

Nov 25, 2024

Introduction to e-Learning on Child Health Safety

🌟 Great news for parents and educators! The Department of Disease Control is proud to launch an eLearning course on Child Health Safety, featuring essential topics on preventing communicable diseases and claiming your ECertificate. 🧒💖 ChildHealth eLearning StaySafe HealthEducation Parents Educators ProtectChildren OnlineLearning CommitmentToHealth InnovativeTraining

Nov 22, 2024

Welcoming the World: Koh Samui's Embrace of Cruise Travelers

Koh Samui, Thailand, rolled out the red carpet for over 1,200 cruise travelers on November 9, 2024, showcasing its stunning nature and rich heritage! With a vibrant welcome from local leaders and a taste of delicious local cuisine, this stop added a magical touch to their journey. 🌊🌴✨

Nov 19, 2024

New Labeling Requirements for Gas Products

Exciting updates in gas product safety for Thailand! Starting November 24, 2024, new labeling requirements for LPG and portable gas stoves will ensure consumers are informed about their products. Thailand GasSafety LPG TravelThailand SafetyFirst ThaiNews ExploreThailand IncredibleThailand Sustainability ConsumerAwareness