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- Hua Hin Municipality prepares for upgrade to city status
On 22 October 2024, a meeting was held at the Hua Hin Municipality Office to continue efforts towards transforming Hua Hin Municipality into a city municipality. The meeting, led by Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul, focused on conducting a SWOT analysis as part of the ongoing research project aimed at restructuring Hua Hin’s local governance […]
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On 22 October 2024, a meeting was held at the Hua Hin Municipality Office to continue efforts towards transforming Hua Hin Municipality into a city municipality. The meeting, led by Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul, focused on conducting a SWOT analysis as part of the ongoing research project aimed at restructuring Hua Hin’s local governance model. The project is being undertaken in partnership with Thammasat University.
Attendees included Professor Dr. Kowit Phuengngam, a consultant and expert in local governance, along with researchers and advisors such as Mr. Suttikiat Angkaburana and Assistant Professor Narong Jandai. Representatives from the municipal administration, public and private sectors, and local community leaders were also present at the session.
Mayor Nopporn Mayor Nopporn explained that the municipality started this research project in collaboration with Thammasat University to evaluate Hua Hin’s current landscape and explore future development opportunities.
The project seeks to identify key trends, challenges, and constraints while formulating strategies to improve local governance and municipal management. The ultimate goal is to transition Hua Hin into a special local government model, positioning it for sustainable development as a tourism hub.
While the official upgrade to a city municipality is expected by March 2025, the mayor clarified that the research project is not directly linked to this status change.
A city municipality, he noted, will retain a governance structure similar to the existing municipal model, with only minor adjustments in responsibilities and organisational scope. However, the new designation alone will not provide the level of authority needed to manage and develop Hua Hin as an international tourist destination.
He also pointed out that even Pattaya, which operates under a special administrative model, faces similar limitations, as its operational responsibilities remain comparable to those of a city municipality.
The mayor said that the research is intended not only to support Hua Hin’s development but also to address governance challenges encountered by other municipalities, including Pattaya.
He explained that the project will compile comprehensive data on development trends while assessing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that could impact Hua Hin’s growth.
He expressed confidence that the findings would shape a practical governance model for Hua Hin, serving as a prototype for other local governments in Thailand.
The mayor added that by emphasising that the transition to a special local government model could lead to more effective development and sustainable local governance.
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22 October 22 2024Hua Hin Newshttps://www.huahintoday.com/?p=69446 - Police launch investigation in Cha-am after son exhumes mother’s body suspecting murder
Police have launched an investigation into the death of a 69-year-old woman after her son exhumed her body for an autopsy, suspecting foul play. The son discovered evidence at the family home that contradicted the initial belief that his mother had died from natural causes. The incident, which took place in Bang Kao Subdistrict, Cha-am […]
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Police have launched an investigation into the death of a 69-year-old woman after her son exhumed her body for an autopsy, suspecting foul play. The son discovered evidence at the family home that contradicted the initial belief that his mother had died from natural causes.
The incident, which took place in Bang Kao Subdistrict, Cha-am District, was first reported to Cha-am Police Station on 17 October. Police Lieutenant Suyumpoo Sittikul, an investigator, responded to the scene where the woman, identified as Mrs. Pranee, was found lying near a staircase in the centre of the house.
Mrs. Pranee, the wife of 70-year-old former village chief Mr. Sanae, was discovered wearing only underwear. Relatives initially believed she had died following a bath, attributing her death to chronic illness. Her body was kept at the family home, where funeral rites took place later that evening.
Discovery of Missing Items Raises Alarm
After the funeral, Mr. Sanae became concerned when he realised that his 9mm gun, which had been stored in a drawer, was missing. He also discovered that other valuables, including a camera, laptop, and wristwatch, were no longer in the house.Further investigation by the deceased’s daughter, Ms. Anchisa, revealed that several drawers and wardrobes in an upstairs bedroom had been left partially open. Male shoe prints were found on the floor, and one of Mrs. Pranee’s bicycles was unaccounted for.
The family say a white shotgun cartridge was also found near the area where Mrs. Pranee’s body had been discovered. The cartridge, which had not been fired, raised the possibility that an intruder may have entered the house, prompting a struggle during which the shell was dropped.
Deputy Commander of the Phetchaburi Provincial Police, Police Colonel Thanya Kruthpueak, has directed investigators from Cha-am Police Station to collect further evidence and review CCTV footage from the area. Authorities hope to establish the circumstances surrounding Mrs. Pranee’s death and determine whether foul play was involved.
As part of the investigation, the missing bicycle was found abandoned in a wooded area approximately 200 metres from the family home. The bicycle has been taken for forensic examination to search for fingerprints or other clues that could assist in identifying a suspect.
The results of the autopsy are pending, with investigators working to uncover the truth behind the incident.
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22 October 22 2024Hua Hin Newshttps://www.huahintoday.com/?p=69444 - How to select the right health insurance plan: Tips from an expert in Hua Hin
Selecting health insurance can be daunting, particularly for expats unfamiliar with the Thai system. To help simplify the process, Mr. Thanakrit Ongjiranon, better known as Tom, a financial advisor and AIA insurance agent, offers his expertise on key considerations. Tom advises expats on how to select the right policy, avoid common mistakes, and manage pre-existing […]
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Selecting health insurance can be daunting, particularly for expats unfamiliar with the Thai system.
To help simplify the process, Mr. Thanakrit Ongjiranon, better known as Tom, a financial advisor and AIA insurance agent, offers his expertise on key considerations.
Tom advises expats on how to select the right policy, avoid common mistakes, and manage pre-existing conditions, with an emphasis on transparency and long-term financial planning.
Tom shared practical advice, highlighting the importance of choosing policies suited to individual needs, accounting for premium affordability, and understanding how age and medical inflation may affect coverage. He also stressed the value of working with experienced agents who can provide reliable support when it matters most.
Below is a recent Q&A with Tom, addressing key aspects of health insurance and offering insights into making informed decisions in Thailand.
1. What are the most important factors people should consider when choosing a health insurance plan in Thailand?
When choosing health insurance, you should consider the following:
- Policy suitability: Choose a plan that meets your needs, including access to hospitals you expect to visit, especially in emergencies.
- Premium affordability: Assess the premiums you’ll need to pay in the future and select a plan that fits your long-term financial planning.
- Medical inflation: Take into account the rising costs of hospital care in the future and how the policy will cover inflation.
- Insurance provider: Select a reputable, stable company with a wide network of hospitals and knowledgeable, professional agents who can guide you.
2. What common mistakes do foreigners and expatriates make when purchasing health insurance in Thailand?
- One of the most common issues faced by foreigners is a lack of understanding of the insurance system in Thailand. Many times, policyholders fail to disclose or withhold significant health information, leading to future complications. A frequent problem we hear about is claims not being paid as per the agreement due to these non-disclosures.
3. What should people do if they want insurance but have pre-existing conditions?
- Every policyholder should disclose their health information in detail, as a health insurance contract is based on utmost good faith. If everything is done correctly from the beginning, making a claim should not be an issue.
4. How does age impact the type of health insurance coverage someone should consider?
- The age for insurance coverage is clearly specified by the company, including the maximum age for new policies and renewals. The first thing to understand is that insurers may not cover pre-existing conditions. In some cases, premiums may increase if the company takes on higher risks due to existing conditions. However, if the condition can be fully cured, you may be able to regain coverage in the future and pay normal premiums once the condition is resolved.
5. Are there any specific types of coverage that you would recommend foreigners prioritise in their health insurance plans?
- The first priority is choosing a comprehensive health insurance plan that covers medical expenses, as Thailand is considered a Medical Hub with world-class medical technology and professionals. However, this comes with high medical costs.
- Secondly, don’t focus only on the cheapest premium. The lowest-cost plan may not meet your needs when you actually require treatment.
- Finally, look for a knowledgeable and reliable agent who can be reached in emergencies. The agent’s expertise is a valuable asset to every customer.
If you have questions or need personalised assistance with health insurance in Thailand, contact Tom directly below.
With his experience and professional insight, Tom is ready to help you find the right coverage for your needs and secure peace of mind for the future.
Contact Tom today on:
Line: aiaexpatinsurance
WhatsApp: AIA Expat Insurance
Email: aia.expat.insurance@gmail.com
Facebook: facebook.com/aiainsurancebytom/
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21 October 21 2024Hua Hin Newshttps://www.huahintoday.com/?p=69438 - Hua Hin Property update: Currency wobbles and opportunities for sellers
As a company, we tend to plan around the quieter months of the year, with June usually being the slowest and September not far behind. However, this year has been a bit different. June was surprisingly strong, but September has been noticeably quieter. The reason? It all comes down to currency fluctuations. Recently, the US […]
The post Hua Hin Property update: Currency wobbles and opportunities for sellers appeared first on Hua Hin Today - Your Premier Source for News, Reports, Events, and Information in Hua Hin.
As a company, we tend to plan around the quieter months of the year, with June usually being the slowest and September not far behind. However, this year has been a bit different. June was surprisingly strong, but September has been noticeably quieter. The reason? It all comes down to currency fluctuations.
Recently, the US Dollar has been struggling for various reasons, which has caused a ripple effect in many global currencies. The Thai Baht, which doesn’t typically react to international trends, has strengthened. Since June, some foreign currencies have slipped by as much as 10%. This has led some eager and ready buyers to become more cautious, visiting properties but hesitating to commit while waiting for a more favourable exchange rate.
So, who can take advantage of this situation? Sellers, especially those looking to transfer money out of Thailand. Lowering the price slightly during a period of a strong Thai Baht won’t affect the total amount received in a foreign bank, making it a smart move for sellers. This could be particularly beneficial as we head into the high season, from December through March, when the chances of selling are significantly higher.
RELATED: Read more from The Hua Hin Property Expert
If you’d like to discuss how the exchange rate could impact the amount you hope to send overseas, feel free to make an appointment. We can help you understand how the final figure might be very different from what you expect.
Despite the slower period, we at Hua Hin Property 2009 Co. Ltd have been pushing ahead with some big changes. We’ve made significant updates to our main office in Khao Takiab and opened a new office at Black Mountain, headed by Mrs Zara Ritter. If you’re thinking about buying or selling property, come by for a chat and enjoy a coffee (or something stronger) while discussing your needs.
Andy Dyett, the Hua Hin Property Expert We’ve recently worked with buyers who needed financial support, allowing them to purchase sooner with a few years of payments to help make it happen. We also arranged a rent-to-buy deal for another buyer, where they rented the property for six months, and if they decided to purchase it, the rent was deducted from the agreed sale price. Don’t hesitate to share your ideas with us, and we’ll do our best to find the right solution to help you settle in Hua Hin.
This month, I’ll be visiting Hong Kong with the family, combining business and pleasure. Many potential buyers are pleasantly surprised when they visit Hua Hin and discover the amenities and lifestyle available here. As residents, we sometimes forget how fortunate we are to live in such a great place. I’ve visited Phuket, Samui, and, more recently, Khao Lak, and it’s made me appreciate Hua Hin even more.
Visiting islands can be fun, with some nice views and beaches, but I often find the ‘ring road’ feel of island life gets old quickly. Khao Lak, while not an island, had decent hotels but lacked the infrastructure that makes Hua Hin such a great base. I often say that Hua Hin is the perfect hub. Sure, if you don’t travel for 12 months, even Hua Hin could lose its appeal – but wouldn’t that be true of anywhere?
From Hua Hin, you can easily reach so many new places within Thailand, whether they’re a couple of hours or half a day’s drive away. Plus, we’re not far from Bangkok, which is not only an amazing city but also a gateway to anywhere in the world. The grass isn’t always greener.
Yours sincerely,
Andy Dyett
The Hua Hin Property Expert
andy@huahinpropertyagent.com
huahinpropertyagent
0867779064RELATED: Read more from The Hua Hin Property Expert
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21 October 21 2024Hua Hin Newshttps://www.huahintoday.com/?p=69435 - Appeal for information: Hit-and-run incident in Hua Hin
On the evening of October 13th, Marina left her hotel near Soi 75/1 around 6pm, heading out with her partner to play pool at a bar on Soi 94. Tragically, she never made it back. Around 2am, Marina decided to walk home alone. While crossing the intersection at Soi 94 and Hua Hin’s main road, […]
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On the evening of October 13th, Marina left her hotel near Soi 75/1 around 6pm, heading out with her partner to play pool at a bar on Soi 94.
Tragically, she never made it back. Around 2am, Marina decided to walk home alone. While crossing the intersection at Soi 94 and Hua Hin’s main road, she was struck by a fast-moving vehicle, possibly a light-colored SUV or pickup (white or silver).
The impact left her unconscious for a short time, and when she regained consciousness, she was unable to move and cried out for help. Two bystanders believed to be foreigners, spoke to her in English and called for an ambulance, but their identities remain unknown.
Marina is now in the hospital, suffering from severe injuries. We are urgently appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has access to CCTV footage from the area to come forward. Any information, no matter how small, could be vital in identifying the driver responsible for this tragic event.
Call +66 898504612
Facebook Yasmin Haley , or use Messenger
Email y.n.haley@gmail.com
Photos supplied
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21 October 21 2024Hua Hin Newshttps://www.huahintoday.com/?p=69430 - Bluport Hua Hin hosts electrifying Legend Fighting Championship 2024, showcasing rising stars and Thailand’s soft power
The Bluport Hall hosted an electrifying night of Muay Thai action on Oct 19 with the ‘Legend Fighting Championship 2024: The Underdog Championship.’ The event, which was free to attend, held on the first floor of the Bluport shopping mall, provided a platform for lesser-known fighters to demonstrate their skills and compete for prize money […]
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The Bluport Hall hosted an electrifying night of Muay Thai action on Oct 19 with the ‘Legend Fighting Championship 2024: The Underdog Championship.’
The event, which was free to attend, held on the first floor of the Bluport shopping mall, provided a platform for lesser-known fighters to demonstrate their skills and compete for prize money exceeding 100,000 baht.
Prior to the event, former Deputy Prime Minister Suwat Liptapanlop presided over the opening ceremony.
Also among the attendees were Provincial Deputy Governor Kittipong Sukphakphum, Mr. Theerawat Silpa-archa, Director of Muay Thai Development at the Sports Authority of Thailand, Ms. Vajee Klomkliang, Executive Director of Hua Hin Asset Co., Ltd, Yaowapa ‘View’ Boorapolchai, a former Thai national taekwondo athlete and Director of The Legend Arena, as well as other distinguished guests.
Mr. Suwat highlighted the unique approach of the Underdog Boxing Championship, which introduces a fresh perspective to Muay Thai by providing a platform for Thai fighters and foreign athletes training in Thailand to pursue professional careers on the international stage. The event aims to elevate competition standards and enhance global visibility for the sport.
“This competition not only promotes Muay Thai but also boosts tourism by hosting events outside major cities,” Mr. Suwat explained. “The government is actively promoting soft power by focusing on cultural elements such as Muay Thai, Thai cuisine, and traditional textiles. Holding Muay Thai competitions in regional destinations encourages tourism while showcasing these cultural assets. Hosting this event in Hua Hin is a perfect example of how sport can generate both economic and tourism benefits.”
He further emphasised that hosting the Legend Fighting Championships 2024 in Hua Hin reinforces the city’s reputation as a premier destination for sports and tourism. Thailand’s proven success in organising competitions across locations such as Hua Hin, Korat, Phuket, Samut Sakhon, and Chiang Mai demonstrates the country’s ability to maintain the legacy of Muay Thai while fostering economic growth.
Event promoter View Yaowapha Buraphonchai noted that the Underdog Boxing Championship focuses on athletes who came close to winning titles but fell short, giving them a second chance at glory. “This competition combines the authenticity of Muay Thai with the entertainment value of modern sports, featuring a reality-show format complete with lights, sound, and action,” she said. “Spectators can expect thrilling bouts showcasing the full art and mastery of Muay Thai.”
Organised in collaboration with the Sports Authority of Thailand and Thai Life Insurance Public Company Limited, Bluport Hua Hin and The Legend Arena, the championship drew a crowd eager to support the fighters and enjoy the showcase of Thailand’s national sport. Sixteen selected boxers participated in the tournament, overcoming formidable challenges as they vied for a spot in the final round, which will take place later this year at the same venue.
Event promoter View Yaowapha Buraphonchai noted that the Underdog Boxing Championship focuses on athletes who came close to winning titles but fell short, giving them a second chance at glory. “This competition combines the authenticity of Muay Thai with the entertainment value of modern sports, featuring a reality-show format complete with lights, sound, and action,” she said. “Spectators can expect thrilling bouts showcasing the full art and mastery of Muay Thai.”
“I guarantee the audience will be captivated by the excitement and artistry of Muay Thai,” View added
And she wasn’t wrong.
As the fighters delivered powerful performances, the audience was treated to a series of fiercely competitive matches, underscoring Muay Thai’s popularity and the talent of its emerging athletes.
The next stage of the tournament will determine who advances to the final showdown, with the Bluport Hall set to once again become the focal point for the sport later this year.
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21 October 21 2024Hua Hin Newshttps://www.huahintoday.com/?p=69422 - Maguire beats Catlin after overtime cliff-hanger at Black Mountain
Unheralded Michael Maguire from the United States denied his in-form compatriot John Catlin a third victory of the year after winning the US$2million Black Mountain Championship on Sunday, following a dramatic sudden-death play-off in heavy rain on the par-five 18th at Black Mountain Golf Club, in Hua Hin, Thailand. Maguire, in just his second season […]
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Unheralded Michael Maguire from the United States denied his in-form compatriot John Catlin a third victory of the year after winning the US$2million Black Mountain Championship on Sunday, following a dramatic sudden-death play-off in heavy rain on the par-five 18th at Black Mountain Golf Club, in Hua Hin, Thailand.
Maguire, in just his second season on the Asian Tour and without a win in the professional game, made par on the second play-off hole to take the title after Asian Tour and The International Series number one Catlin missed his 15-footer for par.
Both players made birdie on the first play-off hole, where Catlin, with a short birdie putt, appeared to have won before his opponent sensationally holed a 20-footer for a four from the fringe.
Both players had finished 72-holes tied on 23-under after Maguire shot a seven-under-par 65 and Catlin carded a 66 – in The International Series’ fifth event of the season, and the 15th leg of the Asian Tour.
Michael Maguire. Picture by Kaikungwon Duanjumroon/Asian Tour. Indian Gaganjeet Bhullar, joint leader at the start of the day with Catlin and paired in the final group with Maguire and Catlin, closed with a 72 and finished four short of the play-off.
Chinese-Taipei’s Max Lee Chieh-po agonisingly missed the play-off by one, with his 65 leaving him solo third.
New Zealand’s Ben Campbell (64), Suteepat Prateeptienchai (66) from Thailand, and Italian Stefano Mazzoli (66), finished in a tie for fourth, another two strokes back.
Said Maguire: “Big weight off my shoulders. You know, kind of been close, you know, kind of a journeyman, played on every tour you can think of and finally to get a win on a big, big tour like this is huge!”
The American was one behind Catlin playing the last, with the former, so often unbeatable in this position, the hot favourite to win.
Maguire found the front bunker in two while Catlin faced a 12-footer for birdie. However, in a surprise turn of events Maguire sensationally nearly holed his bunker shot for an eagle leaving him a straightforward birdie putt while Catlin missed his putt for the victory to send the event into overtime.
Michael Maguire. Picture by Kaikungwon Duanjumroon/Asian Tour. Maguire, aged 31 and from Florida, made it through the Asian Tour Qualifying School at the beginning of last year, in fourth place, and kept his card after finishing 56th on the Asian Tour Order of Merit.
That season was helped in a big way by tying for fourth in the International Series Vietnam, which had been his best finish on the Asian Tour before today’s epiphany.
“It was a fun battle down the back,” he added. “We were kind of back and forth. I think I tied him on the seventh hole, six hole, and then we had a two-shot swing on nine. It was kind of big, but I knew two shots is nothing out here on this course, especially with the finish, you know, having a couple holes we could reach, by getting close to the green with drivers. So, it was just staying close and just kind of being patient was kind of my biggest thing, and then having to roll in a few nice ones.”
Catlin was attempting to win three titles in a season for the second time in his career. He achieved the feat in 2018, and it looked like the hat-trick was well within his grasp throughout today.
“I mean, I gave it everything I had, I went bogey free,” said the American, who won the International Series Macau presented by Wynn, in a play-off, and the Saudi Open presented by PIF, back-to-back earlier this year.
“I thought I had it in the first play-off hole, and I thought I had it in regulation, and he just hit an amazing bunker shot and then holed about a 20-footer to extend the play-off.”
He also lost the International Series Morocco in extra-time this year after Campbell stormed through at the end holing a succession of stunning putts.
John Catlin. Picture by Kaikungwon Duanjumroon/Asian Tour. He added: “I mean it kind of feels like Morocco, like I really didn’t do that much wrong, and here I am standing on the wrong side of it, so it is what it is.
“I kind of kept telling myself I was like, Michael’s kind of pushing me, like I could feel that. Like he kept holing good putts and hitting good shots in there, and I kind of used that. I was like okay, he’s gonna push me on, I gotta keep staying strong.”
The result means he extends his lead on both the Asian Tour Order of Merit and The International Series Rankings ahead of next week’s International Series Thailand at Thai Country Club in Bangkok.
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21 October 21 2024Hua Hin Newshttps://www.huahintoday.com/?p=69416 - Winter Season 2024: Thailand to experience colder weather than last year
Thailand’s winter season for 2024 is expected to begin in the third week of October, bringing colder conditions than last year, according to the Meteorological Department. Minimum temperatures in the northern and northeastern regions are forecasted to drop as low as 6°C, while Bangkok is expected to see lows of 16°C. The colder conditions are […]
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Thailand’s winter season for 2024 is expected to begin in the third week of October, bringing colder conditions than last year, according to the Meteorological Department.
Minimum temperatures in the northern and northeastern regions are forecasted to drop as low as 6°C, while Bangkok is expected to see lows of 16°C. The colder conditions are projected to last until late February 2025.
Cooler weather across Thailand
In upper Thailand, the average minimum temperature is forecasted to range between 20°C and 21°C, slightly higher than the usual average of 19.9°C. However, this year’s temperatures are expected to feel colder compared to the 2023 winter season, which recorded an average low of 21.6°C.
The coldest weather is predicted in the northern and northeastern highlands, where temperatures could drop between 6°C and 8°C. Bangkok’s temperatures will likely range from 16°C to 18°C, with surrounding metropolitan areas experiencing lows of 14°C to 16°C.
The chilliest period is expected between early December 2024 and January 2025, with frost likely on mountaintops and high-altitude areas. In the south, cooler conditions will be limited to upper regions, although the area will remain mostly warm.
Warnings for Southern Thailand
Heavy rainfall is forecasted for southern Thailand in November and December, increasing the risk of flash floods and rising river levels. Coastal areas may experience strong winds and high waves. Waves in the Gulf of Thailand could reach 2 to 3 metres, with some storms causing waves to exceed 4 to 5 metres.
The Andaman Sea will also be affected, with waves ranging from 1 to 2 metres during stormy conditions. There is a high possibility of tropical cyclones forming in November and December, which could move through the Gulf of Thailand, bringing heavy rain and rough seas.
Regional Forecast
Upper Thailand (North, Northeast, Central, and East):
- October to November: Cooler conditions will develop, particularly in the north and northeast, accompanied by morning fog and occasional rainfall.
- December to January: Temperatures will fall further, with widespread cold spells. Frost is expected in mountainous regions, while mornings in the central and eastern provinces will also be chilly.
- February: Temperatures will become more variable, with warm days and cool mornings continuing in the north and northeast.
Southern Thailand:
- October to January: Heavy rainfall is expected along the east coast, with thunderstorms likely in 60% to 80% of the area. Flash floods and river overflows are a risk during this period.
- January to February: Rainfall will gradually ease, but occasional thunderstorms may persist in southernmost provinces. Storms in the Gulf of Thailand could bring waves of 2 to 4 metres, while the Andaman Sea will see waves of up to 2 metres.
Bangkok and surrounding areas:
- October to November: Mildly cool weather is expected, with scattered thunderstorms covering 20% to 30% of the area.
- December to January: Cooler days are likely, with fog developing in some areas.
February: Temperatures will rise, though occasional cool spells and foggy mornings may occur.
Safety precautions
In October, continuous rainfall and high tides could result in flash floods, particularly in central, eastern, and upper southern regions. From December to January, frost is expected on high ground, with thick fog reducing visibility in the north and northeast, creating potentially hazardous driving conditions.
During January and February, occasional westerly winds from Myanmar may cause thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail in upper Thailand. November and December may bring tropical cyclones to the Gulf of Thailand, resulting in severe storms, heavy rainfall, and waves reaching up to 5 metres along the coast.
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19 October 19 2024Hua Hin Newshttps://www.huahintoday.com/?p=69381 - Exploring the ‘death village’ near Hua Hin: The abandoned development shrouded in mystery
It would be the perfect setting for a horror movie Just 30 minutes from downtown Hua Hin lies an eerie and forgotten place, now known as the ‘death village’. This abandoned property development in Cha Am has been left to decay for more than two decades, and stories of strange happenings and ghostly sightings have […]
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It would be the perfect setting for a horror movie
Just 30 minutes from downtown Hua Hin lies an eerie and forgotten place, now known as the ‘death village’. This abandoned property development in Cha Am has been left to decay for more than two decades, and stories of strange happenings and ghostly sightings have added to its mystique.
Dubbed the ‘death village’ by locals, the site consists of a cluster of half-built two and three storey houses or buildings, strewn across a large area, all now overtaken by nature. With its crumbling walls, collapsed roofs, and graffiti that ominously reads “death” and “help us”, the development has become the subject of chilling rumours and folklore. Although uninhabited, the village is not short of ghost stories and tales of supernatural occurrences.
The project’s origins are murky, and so are the reasons behind its abandonment.
Hua Hin Today first heard about the ‘abandoned death village’ during an interview with Thailand based photographer Dax Ward in July 2022.
Photographer and urban explorer Dax is known around the world for his photos of abandoned places. His photographs have been featured in CNN, The Guardian, The Daily Mail, The Sun, Lad Bible, the Weather Channel, Lonely Planet and many more.
Ever since the meeting with Dax, the ‘death village’ (the location of which Dax did not disclose) has always remained with us. Purely by chance, we recently discovered the location.
After visiting the site and investigating the stories, Hua Hin Today uncovered three leading theories as to why the development was never completed.
A horrific crime?
One of the more sinister rumours surrounding the village is that it was the scene of a brutal murder. According to local accounts, a young woman was allegedly murdered by her jealous boyfriend on the site after it was discovered she was involved in a love triangle. Her body, as the story goes, was found by a construction worker, and her restless spirit has haunted the area ever since.
Several people living nearby claimed to have heard screams coming from the village at night, while others mentioned that many believe the site is haunted by the woman who was killed. Some even avoid passing by, fearing bad luck or encounters with her ghost. However, despite these stories, no one could provide concrete details, and Hua Hin Today could find no official records of such a crime taking place.
It is possible that this tale is nothing more than a myth—one that grew over time as the site fell into disrepair. Nonetheless, the fear of ghosts and bad luck is said to be one of the reasons why no attempts have been made to revive the project.
Impact of the 1997 financial crisis
Another theory points to Thailand’s 1997 financial crisis, commonly referred to as the ‘Tom Yum Goong’ crisis, as the reason for the development’s abandonment. The economic meltdown that gripped Thailand during this period brought many construction projects to a sudden halt, and some believe the death village was a casualty of this crisis.
However, based on the available information, this theory may also be flawed. Construction on the development is thought to have started after 1997, with some saying as late as the early 2000s. This would suggest that the financial crisis may not have been the direct cause of the project’s downfall.
A failed business venture
The third theory, and perhaps the most likely, is that the development was simply a failed business venture. It is believed that the site was intended to serve as student accommodation for a local university. While one university still operates nearby, there used to be a second, an international university that closed in 2021. That institution had faced accusations of financial mismanagement and other controversies, including concerns over the welfare of students and staff.
In one particularly troubling case, a lecturer from the now-closed university was found dead in a Hua Hin hotel, his body reportedly covered in bruises. Despite the official cause of death being given as “circulatory failure,” his friends and family raised concerns about a possible cover-up. This added to the university’s already tarnished reputation.
As the university struggled, the need for additional student accommodation likely diminished, and the developers may have simply run out of funds. Half-finished construction projects are not uncommon in Thailand, and the ‘death village’ could be yet another example of a development left to stagnate due to financial difficulties.
A village in decay
Today, the development stands in stark contrast to its intended purpose. Overgrown with weeds, ivy, and other vegetation, the houses are slowly being reclaimed by nature. When Hua Hin Today visited the site, we found some evidence that someone may have attempted to restart construction. In one building, there were cans of paint and a faint smell of fresh paint in the air. Some of the windows appeared newer than the others, suggesting that renovations were started but later abandoned.
The area is eerily quiet. Despite being located near a road, there were no street dogs, and the usual sounds of traffic were absent. During our visit, a large owl flew overhead, startling us as it swooped low over the abandoned buildings.
For now, the site remains frozen in time—a symbol of what could have been, now left to rot. Whether haunted by the ghosts of its past, the scars of economic turmoil, or simply the remnants of a failed business plan, the ‘death village’ continues to intrigue those who come across it.
What will happen to the site remains unknown. While there are no immediate plans for its redevelopment, the mystery and folklore surrounding the ‘death village’ seem destined to linger for years to come.
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19 October 19 2024Hua Hin Newshttps://www.huahintoday.com/?p=69384 - Bars raided on Soi 80 in Hua Hin, underage workers found
Authorities have arrested two bar owners in Hua Hin on charges related to human trafficking, following a police operation targeting establishments accused of exploiting minors for sexual services. Pol. Maj. Gen. Saruti Khwangsopha, Commander of the Anti-Human Trafficking Division (AHTD), led the operation and ordered the arrests, which were carried out by Pol. Col. Alongkot […]
The post Bars raided on Soi 80 in Hua Hin, underage workers found appeared first on Hua Hin Today - Your Premier Source for News, Reports, Events, and Information in Hua Hin.
Authorities have arrested two bar owners in Hua Hin on charges related to human trafficking, following a police operation targeting establishments accused of exploiting minors for sexual services.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Saruti Khwangsopha, Commander of the Anti-Human Trafficking Division (AHTD), led the operation and ordered the arrests, which were carried out by Pol. Col. Alongkot Kotchakhaeo, acting Superintendent of Sub-Division 5, along with Pol. Lt. Col. Krirk Sanohsamnieng and Pol. Lt. Col. Parinya Raksakaew.
The suspects, identified as Ms. Kotchaphan, 53, also known as “Madam Ann,” owner of Exotic, and 50-year-old, “Ms Lee,” owner of Full House Bar, were taken into custody at their respective establishments on Soi Hua Hin 80.
Investigations conducted by the AHTD in early October uncovered evidence of minors being exploited for prostitution at both bars.
According to the police, the bars primarily catered to foreign tourists and were involved in recruiting and transporting minors, aged between 15 and 18, for sexual services.
The bars allegedly imposed “bar fines” that allowed customers to remove workers from the premises. Undercover officers, posing as tourists, confirmed that minors were being offered for sexual services at both establishments. Police reported that each session was charged at 2,000 baht, with the bars keeping 500 baht as their share.
During the raids, five to six workers were found at Exotic, including two minors under the age of 18. At Full House Bar, 13 employees were identified, with one confirmed minor among them. Police rescued the minors involved and placed them under protective custody.
Police said both suspects confessed to the charges during police questioning. They were transferred to Sub-Division 5 of the AHTD for further legal proceedings.Authorities are continuing to investigate the case to uncover others potentially connected to the trafficking network.
Images: Anti-Human Trafficking Division
The post Bars raided on Soi 80 in Hua Hin, underage workers found appeared first on Hua Hin Today - Your Premier Source for News, Reports, Events, and Information in Hua Hin.
19 October 19 2024Hua Hin Newshttps://www.huahintoday.com/?p=69411