The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (Narit) and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) have teamed up to promote “astronomical tourism” by designating 18 stargazing locations as dark sky reserves in 2023. These locations, free from artificial light, provide a perfect setting for stargazers and photographers alike.
The Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, commonly known as Tourism Malaysia, plans to promote lesserknown tourist destinations within the country to attract more Thai travelers. Currently, the most popular Malaysian destinations among Thai tourists are Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Pahang, and Malacca.
Nine underprivileged schools in Thailand have been placed under royal patronage by His Majesty the King, according to Education Minister Trinuch Thienthong. These schools, previously named “Sueksa Songkhro” Schools, will be renamed “Rajaprajanugroh” Schools after being adopted by the Rajaprajanugroh Foundation Under Royal Patronage.
In a nationwide operation targeting illegal firearms and criminal activities, Thai police have seized a significant number of illegal guns, ammunition, and drugs while arresting over 900 suspects. The monthlong crackdown began on July 1 and is supervised by multiple law enforcement agencies.
As Thailand’s political landscape continues to evolve, Pheu Thai, the primary opposition party, has grown impatient with the Move Forward Party (MFP) and its leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s efforts to secure the prime minister position. Pheu Thai deputy leader Phumtham Wechayachai expressed his concerns about the economic problems facing the nation, which cannot wait for the MFP to keep nominating Pita. He highlighted that Pheu Thai has three prime ministerial candidates ready for the job.
Tropical storm Talim, currently over Vietnam, is predicted to bring heavy rainfall to Thailand from July 16 to 20 due to its interaction with local monsoons. The Meteorological Department issued a weather forecast early on July 16, warning citizens to be vigilant and prepared for the potential impacts of the storm. The storm is expected to impact various regions throughout the country, and local authorities are urging residents to take precautions against flash floods and overflows, especially in areas near waterways and lowlands.
A bus accident in Si Sa Ket, Thailand, took the lives of four individuals and left 34 others injured when it veered off a mountain road and overturned in Phu Sing district. The accident occurred on July 10th, 2023, during the Suranaree Trail Running competition. According to the police, the bus was carrying participants back to the starting point after finishing the race when it lost its balance on a trip down Phanom Dongrak mountain.
Four hotels in Thailand have been recognized as some of the world’s best by La Liste, a reputable French hotel and restaurant rating guide. The hotels that have made it into the top 10 include Capella Bangkok, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Amanpuri in Phuket, and Six Senses Yao Noi in Phangnga. This achievement has been hailed by Prime Minister Prayut Chanocha as a sign of a strong tourism sector in the country.
The Marine Department of Thailand has proposed a plan to construct a 7.4billionbaht cruise port in Pattaya, which would be the first dedicated cruise port in the nation. The project is intended to accommodate two largesized cruise liners simultaneously. The new cabinet will need to approve this plan for it to proceed.
As the conflict between the military and ethnic groups in Myanmar rages on, nearly 4,800 Myanmar nationals have sought refuge in the Mae Hong Son border districts in Thailand. The fighting has been particularly intense along the ThaiMyanmar border opposite tambon Sao Hin of Mae Sariang district and tambon Mae Ngao of Khun Yuam district.