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- Sense and nonsense about Donald TrumpEDITORIAL Understanding the American president is a box of tricks that not even his own family has managed to crack open. It is often said by commentators he is in serious mental decline when caught repeating himself or slurring words. On the other hand, he can answer reporters’ quickfire questions on all manner of subjects […]
The first foreigners kicked out of America were the Brits 200 years ago. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons) Understanding the American president is a box of tricks that not even his own family has managed to crack open. It is often said by commentators he is in serious mental decline when caught repeating himself or slurring words. On the other hand, he can answer reporters’ quickfire questions on all manner of subjects for an hour when standing up – which no other world leader dares to imitate.
Trump is a gifted orator when speaking to domestic audiences craving to hear the Make America Great Again slogan. He has taken clues from the 1930s when the America First Movement campaigned successfully for US isolationism, a grip only broken by the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. He shows some similarities with the rabble-rousing oratory of Adolf Hitler, especially the constant repeating of triumphant populist slogans, but Hitler was the result of an economic disorder whereas Trump is creating one.The American president has skillfully used unpredictability to his advantage in many scenarios. It was assumed that his alleged sexual escapades and bribery would ruin his political career. Not so and bible thumpers adore him. He remains popular with the “moralistic” anti-abortion and anti-gay rights blocks in the Republican party. Trump claimed in the runup to the 2024 presidential election he would have no time for golf. Ugh! He successfully champions the poorer classes in America whilst indulging an eye-popping luxurious lifestyle.
If there is a key to Trump, it’s likely his dyslexia which is obviously denied but is patent. He has no interest whatsoever in books or literature apart from praising his own ghost-written best seller. Many former staff members confirm his sources of information are charts, summaries, phone calls and conversations. Last month, Keith Starmer presented him with an invitation letter from King Charles. Trump was unable to scan it quickly and returned it to the British prime minister for the detail.Being a slow reader is not a sin and a condition shared by many other influential people. But it leads to a lack of perspective on key issues when you are the so-called leader of the free world. Thus he quotes earlier examples of American tariffs 100 years ago, without any acknowledgement of the world recession which followed. He currently attacks Cambodia and Vietnam for cheating and robbing America without apparently appreciating that US planes bombed these countries almost to oblivion in the 1970s.
Donald Trump is a 20th century guy, in power in the 21st century but wanting to return his country to the 19th century. America then was isolationist, having recently kicked out the Brits, and tariffs on imports were indeed an alternative to federal income tax which was unknown before the American civil war. Trump’s second term ends in under four years, assuming there is no palace coup to avoid his facing the electorate. As future British prime minister Winston Churchill said of Neville Chamberlain, “For now, he is somebody up with which we shall have to put.”
7 April 07 2025Editorialhttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=496707 - Thailand bets both ways on Trump’s tariffsThe Thai government has decided to face two ways in dealing with the unpredictable US administration. Finance minister Pichai Chunhavajira will lead a delegation to the US to offer to buy more products from America in return for a reduction of the obstacles facing Thai exporters. In support, the Thai prime minister is assuring Washington […]
The American president may have upset one too many apple carts this time. The Thai government has decided to face two ways in dealing with the unpredictable US administration. Finance minister Pichai Chunhavajira will lead a delegation to the US to offer to buy more products from America in return for a reduction of the obstacles facing Thai exporters. In support, the Thai prime minister is assuring Washington that her country is an ally as well as a trading partner.
But Thailand is separately planning to diversify its markets and find alternatives. She is consulting with her ASEAN partners about a regional response to Trump and looking for free-trade agreements with other blocks such as the European Union, BRICS (led by China, Russia and India) and the post-BREXIT UK. None of these negotiations are new, but Trump’s economic nationalist agenda will force the pace.It all matters because the US is Thailand’s biggest export market specializing in electronics, machinery and processed food. These goods will now carry a 36 percent tariff on entering the US. American exports to Thailand are very much smaller, but Thai negotiators say they could buy more energy, animal feed and alcoholic drinks as well as buying or leasing more American aircraft.
A separate but pressing problem is that China, to avoid earlier tariffs imposed by the US, has long expanded its production bases to Thailand to reroute exports to the US, particularly electronics, and thus disguise their true origin. For example, the Eastern Economic Corridor (which includes Chonburi and Pattaya) has many factories exporting to America.There’s no doubt that the world is entering a new era after Trump upended the global economic order. His aim is American self-sufficiency and a purely transactional relationship with other countries, both friend and foe. Probably, Trump’s central error is his belief that the US still controls the world. In reality, American decline is likely to be hastened as other countries seek economic alliances elsewhere. China is rubbing her hands with glee at the golden opportunity presented by Donald Trump.
7 April 07 2025Featuredhttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=496699 - Do Pattaya officials realize needs of Jomtien residents and businesses demanding a two-way system and safer conditions?PATTAYA, Thailand – In recent discussions surrounding the ongoing traffic challenges in Pattaya, particularly along Jomtien Beach Road, local residents and business owners have voiced increasing concerns about the lack of proper traffic management and safety. For years, Jomtien Beach Road, a major thoroughfare in the area, has been burdened with congested traffic, especially during […]
Despite growing concerns, many locals feel that Pattaya officials have not fully understood or addressed the specific traffic challenges faced by Jomtien residents and businesses. PATTAYA, Thailand – In recent discussions surrounding the ongoing traffic challenges in Pattaya, particularly along Jomtien Beach Road, local residents and business owners have voiced increasing concerns about the lack of proper traffic management and safety. For years, Jomtien Beach Road, a major thoroughfare in the area, has been burdened with congested traffic, especially during peak hours. Despite the significance of this road to the local economy and daily commute, many feel that the local authorities have failed to fully understand or address the needs of the people who live and work in this area.
One of the most pressing issues raised by both residents and business owners is the need for a two-way traffic system along Jomtien Beach Road. Currently, the road operates in a one-way system for a significant stretch, which has been a major cause of traffic bottlenecks and delays. Many business owners, who rely on smooth traffic flow for their customers to reach their establishments, argue that the one-way system is inefficient and outdated. By converting the road to a two-way system, they believe it would reduce congestion, allow easier access to local businesses, and improve the overall flow of traffic, especially for those traveling into and out of the area.In addition to the demand for a two-way system, there are ongoing concerns about the safety of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Several residents have pointed out the absence of adequate safety measures, such as well-marked crosswalks, pedestrian bridges, and proper traffic signals. Local businesses are also concerned about the lack of clear signage and street lighting, which contribute to accidents, especially at night. For a tourist destination like Pattaya, where visitors flock to the beach and surrounding attractions, ensuring the safety of both locals and tourists should be a top priority.
Another major concern on Jomtien Beach Road is the reckless behavior of motorcycles riding against one-way traffic, which heightens the danger for both vehicles and pedestrians. The road, often crowded with cars and tourists, becomes even more chaotic when motorcyclists disregard traffic rules and ride in the opposite direction. This forces drivers to react unexpectedly, increasing the likelihood of collisions. Pedestrians, especially those crossing the road or walking along the sidewalk, face even greater risks as they may not anticipate motorcycles approaching from the wrong direction. This reckless behavior disrupts the flow of traffic and creates an environment where accidents are more likely to occur, endangering everyone on the road.
The one-way system on Jomtien Soi 5 (Soi Immigration) has also proven to be ineffective, leading to frequent traffic issues and frustration among residents and business owners. Despite being intended to ease congestion and improve traffic flow, the one-way system often results in confusion, as many drivers ignore the restrictions, either by mistake or deliberately. This disregard for the rules causes unnecessary traffic jams, particularly during peak hours, as vehicles attempt to maneuver around blocked or improperly parked cars. The narrow streets and high volume of traffic make it difficult for emergency vehicles to pass through, further exacerbating the situation. Additionally, the lack of proper enforcement allows for ongoing violations, turning what should be a smooth, organized system into a source of chaos, making it clear that the current traffic plan is failing to meet the needs of the community.
However, despite these concerns, many feel that Pattaya officials have not done enough to address the situation. While there have been occasional promises of traffic improvements, little has been done to directly consult with the affected residents and business owners to develop a practical solution. Some locals question whether the authorities truly understand the impact of the current traffic conditions on daily life in Jomtien, or whether their efforts are focused on broader city development rather than tackling the specific issues affecting smaller communities.
Local residents and business owners on Jomtien Beach Road are calling for a two-way traffic system to alleviate congestion and improve access to their establishments. 
7 April 07 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=496694 - Monk proposes innovative idea to replace floral wreaths with school uniforms to support low-income communitiesPATTAYA, Thailand – At Wat Samakkhi Banphot (Wat Nok), located in Bang Saray, Sattahip District, Chonburi, local media reported a unique initiative introduced by Phra Kru Kasemkitthisophon (Ajarn Joi), the head monk of Phlu Ta Luang Subdistrict and abbot of Wat Samakkhi Banphot. The temple has proposed to replace traditional floral wreaths with school uniform […]
Phra Kru Kasemkitthisophon introduces the idea of replacing floral wreaths with school uniforms and rice packets to help local communities. PATTAYA, Thailand – At Wat Samakkhi Banphot (Wat Nok), located in Bang Saray, Sattahip District, Chonburi, local media reported a unique initiative introduced by Phra Kru Kasemkitthisophon (Ajarn Joi), the head monk of Phlu Ta Luang Subdistrict and abbot of Wat Samakkhi Banphot. The temple has proposed to replace traditional floral wreaths with school uniform wreaths and rice packets at funerals. The decision comes after the temple found that floral wreaths, which wilt after a few days, become waste and contribute to environmental pollution, especially when burned.
Phra Kru Kasemkitthisophon shared that, in the past, families of the deceased would bring floral wreaths in large quantities, but the flowers would quickly wilt and had to be discarded. Since the government has prohibited the burning of such materials, it posed additional challenges. To address this, the temple started a campaign three years ago, replacing floral wreaths with rice packets, which could be distributed to local communities. These rice packets were given out during religious ceremonies, particularly on Buddhist holy days.Recently, due to economic difficulties and the rising cost of education, the temple introduced the idea of using school uniforms as an alternative to floral wreaths. This idea was supported by temple followers and the local community, who donated over ten school uniforms to create the wreaths. Now, the temple has fully transitioned to using school uniforms instead of flowers, and students in need have already benefited from this initiative.
Phra Kru Kasemkitthisophon also emphasized that the temple no longer charges for funeral services, including the use of water, electricity, or the funeral hall, and has been offering these services free of charge for the past 3-4 years. The only costs incurred are for funeral-related expenses such as transportation and cremation. The temple encourages people to donate school uniforms or rice packets for use in these new wreaths to help support those in need.
Over 10 school uniforms were donated by temple supporters to create the new wreaths, which have already helped students in need. 
The initiative aims to reduce waste caused by wilting floral wreaths and promotes sustainability.
7 April 07 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=496689 - Songkran, Thailand’s deadliest time on the roads – Pattaya among the worst hitPATTAYA, Thailand – Songkran, Thailand’s traditional New Year festival, is known for its fun-filled water fights, family reunions, and cultural celebrations. However, it also marks the period when the country faces its highest rate of road accidents, with a significant rise in fatalities and injuries. During this time, Pattaya, known for its vibrant tourist scene […]
Pattaya experiences severe congestion during the festive period, with increased accidents due to heavy traffic, distractions, and alcohol consumption. PATTAYA, Thailand – Songkran, Thailand’s traditional New Year festival, is known for its fun-filled water fights, family reunions, and cultural celebrations. However, it also marks the period when the country faces its highest rate of road accidents, with a significant rise in fatalities and injuries. During this time, Pattaya, known for its vibrant tourist scene and packed streets, becomes one of the hotspots for traffic chaos and accidents.
The combination of increased travel, alcohol consumption, and distractions from water-throwing celebrations leads to a hazardous driving environment. Many people take to the roads to return home for the holiday or to visit relatives, significantly increasing the number of vehicles. In cities like Pattaya, where traffic is already dense due to tourism, the congestion during Songkran can be overwhelming. The streets fill with tourists and locals, some of whom are not familiar with the area, while others may be distracted by the ongoing water fights. These factors, combined with speeding and reckless driving, create the perfect storm for accidents.
Alcohol also plays a significant role in Songkran’s road safety crisis. During the celebrations, many people indulge in drinking, and with the roads often packed with traffic, it’s not uncommon to see drivers operating vehicles under the influence. This dangerous mix of alcohol and heavy traffic leads to increased road rage, risky driving behaviors, and ultimately, a higher number of accidents.Pattaya is especially vulnerable during Songkran, given its large influx of both local and international visitors. The city’s notorious traffic jams are exacerbated by the festival, with roads becoming bottlenecked and pedestrians often crossing without regard for traffic. Water-throwing typically happens in the streets, and in some areas, the constant distractions make it harder for drivers to concentrate, leading to collisions.
Local authorities in Pattaya and across Thailand make significant efforts to combat the spike in accidents during Songkran, including heightened police presence, roadblocks, and awareness campaigns. However, despite these measures, the combination of festive behaviors, road conditions, and human error still contributes to the high number of accidents.With the country preparing for the 2025 Songkran festival, experts are urging for greater safety measures, including stronger enforcement against drunk driving, public awareness on safe travel, and better traffic management, especially in tourist-heavy cities like Pattaya. The goal is not only to celebrate the Thai New Year but to ensure that the festivities don’t come at the cost of lives lost on the roads.
Authorities in Pattaya and across Thailand push for stricter enforcement to curb road accidents, urging people to drive responsibly during Songkran celebrations.
7 April 07 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=496680 - Locals demand one-way system across Pattaya to ease traffic and reduce congestion during SongkranPATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya is set to face significant traffic congestion this Songkran, with the city’s authorities seemingly powerless to manage the inevitable chaos. As the Songkran holiday draws near, visitors flock to Pattaya, increasing both foot and vehicle traffic to unprecedented levels. However, as has been the case in previous years, city officials are […]
Last year’s chaotic scenes on Beach Road, worsened by street vendors, highlight the city’s struggle with managing traffic during Songkran. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya is set to face significant traffic congestion this Songkran, with the city’s authorities seemingly powerless to manage the inevitable chaos. As the Songkran holiday draws near, visitors flock to Pattaya, increasing both foot and vehicle traffic to unprecedented levels. However, as has been the case in previous years, city officials are expected to struggle to control the flow of vehicles or find solutions to the persistent traffic jams.
Last year, Beach Road was transformed into a chaotic scene of congestion as officials attempted to regulate the traffic, but their efforts fell short. One local commented, “They did it on Beach Rd last year, must have lasted a few days because it was worse when I got back, with street vendors added.” The combination of heavy traffic, street vendors, and the typical rush of Songkran revelers left Beach Road in disarray, causing frustration among residents and visitors alike.
The traffic chaos during Songkran is expected to only worsen this year, with no effective plan in place to alleviate the congestion. Some residents suggest drastic measures, such as implementing a one-way system throughout the entire city, which could potentially ease the flow of traffic and reduce bottlenecks during the busy festival period. However, the feasibility and effectiveness of such a plan remain uncertain.As Pattaya prepares for another chaotic Songkran, the public is urged to brace for delays and plan accordingly. While city officials may not have an effective solution in place to combat the gridlock, aside closing some roads on April 19, residents and visitors can only hope for better coordination to improve traffic management during the holiday.
Locals urge city officials to implement a one-way system across Pattaya to ease traffic flow and reduce congestion during the Songkran festivities.
7 April 07 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=496669 - Pattaya scorched by heat while summer storms loom – public urged vigilance ahead of Songkran festivitiesPATTAYA, Thailand – The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued an urgent weather forecast warning that hot weather combined with a cold air mass from China is likely to trigger dangerous summer storms across much of upper Thailand today. The public is being advised to brace for heavy thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible hail, particularly […]
Pattaya, as a key destination for Songkran celebrations, is facing extremely hot temperatures above 38°C this year, with a 40% chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. PATTAYA, Thailand – The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued an urgent weather forecast warning that hot weather combined with a cold air mass from China is likely to trigger dangerous summer storms across much of upper Thailand today. The public is being advised to brace for heavy thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible hail, particularly in the North, Northeast, and Central regions. Meanwhile, southern provinces will also see scattered rain, with choppy seas posing risks for marine activities.
With Songkran festivities around the corner, Pattaya is expecting to be hit by extreme heat, adding extra caution to the holiday plans. The combination of temperatures rising above 38°C and the potential for thunderstorms could make the traditional water festival more challenging for both residents and tourists.
According to the 24-hour forecast, a moderate high-pressure system from China has already covered upper Laos and is expected to spread into northern and northeastern Thailand, as well as the South China Sea. This, combined with prevailing southwesterly and southerly winds over northern and northeastern Thailand, is generating highly unstable atmospheric conditions.With hot to extremely hot weather already prevailing in several areas—especially in the Central Region—the interaction of air masses is expected to result in summer storms. These storms will manifest as thunderstorms, gusty winds, and in some locations, hail.
The public in affected areas should avoid open spaces, standing under large trees, or being near unstable structures and billboards during storm conditions. Farmers are advised to secure their crops and protect livestock, while everyone should stay hydrated and protect their health during this volatile period.In the South, easterly and southeasterly winds continue to blow across the Gulf of Thailand, the Andaman Sea, and southern provinces. Scattered thunderstorms are expected along both coasts. The TMD warns of waves reaching up to 2 meters in stormy areas, urging boat operators to navigate with caution and avoid areas experiencing thunderstorms.
7 April 07 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=496666 - Is traveling to and from Pattaya via tourist buses safe during Songkran holidays?PATTAYA, Thailand – As the Songkran holidays approach, tens of thousands of people are expected to travel in and out of Pattaya—one of Thailand’s most popular destinations during the Thai New Year festival. With a surge in road traffic, especially involving long-distance tourist and charter buses, many are wondering: is it safe to travel by […]
Holiday travelers are urged to exercise caution during Songkran after a tragic bus crash in Pathum Thani leaves 2 dead and 24 injured, highlighting the risks of nighttime road travel. PATTAYA, Thailand – As the Songkran holidays approach, tens of thousands of people are expected to travel in and out of Pattaya—one of Thailand’s most popular destinations during the Thai New Year festival. With a surge in road traffic, especially involving long-distance tourist and charter buses, many are wondering: is it safe to travel by bus during this festive period?
Authorities have repeatedly warned travelers to be cautious, especially when using buses or vans on interprovincial routes during peak travel times like Songkran. While many bus companies bolster their fleets and enforce safety checks, accidents can still occur due to human error, poor road conditions, or inadequate lighting.
A tragic reminder of the risks occurred on April 6 in Pathum Thani Province.A bus carrying a group of pilgrims from Bangkok to a temple in Lat Bua Luang, Ayutthaya, crashed into the rear of a parked six-wheeler early Saturday morning, leaving two people dead and 24 others injured.
The accident took place on the Taling Chan–Suphan Buri Road. According to reports, the truck had stopped in the right lane with hazard lights on while preparing to unload a backhoe to repair a streetlight in the median strip. The bus driver, allegedly unable to react in time, collided with the truck at high speed. One of the deceased was the bus driver. (TNA)
This incident underscores the dangers of nighttime road travel and the importance of both driver vigilance and proper road safety measures—especially during high-traffic holidays like Songkran.
Tips for Bus Travelers During Songkran:
Choose reputable operators: Use well-known companies that follow safety protocols.
Avoid late-night travel: Night journeys carry higher risks due to reduced visibility and driver fatigue.
Use seat belts: Even in buses, wearing seat belts can save lives.
Check reviews and condition: Look for buses with good safety records and well-maintained fleets.
Plan ahead: Heavy traffic and rushed schedules increase the risk of accidents.While traveling by bus to and from Pattaya during Songkran can be convenient and affordable, it’s essential to prioritize safety by making informed choices and remaining alert during the journey. Authorities urge both drivers and passengers to cooperate in reducing road casualties during the festive period.
7 April 07 2025Pattayahttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=496663 - School Break Thrill – Khao Kheow Open Zoo celebrates the birth of a rare ‘Five-Colored Langur’PATTAYA, Thailand – The Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi is thrilled to announce the successful breeding of another baby Five-Colored Langur, a rare and vibrant species close to extinction. The newborn, a female, was born on February 7, 2025, to parents “Khao Phod” (15 years old) and “Tua Lek” (14 years old). Narongwit Chotchoy, […]
The baby langur, born in February 2025, brings joy to visitors and is part of an important conservation effort. PATTAYA, Thailand – The Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi is thrilled to announce the successful breeding of another baby Five-Colored Langur, a rare and vibrant species close to extinction. The newborn, a female, was born on February 7, 2025, to parents “Khao Phod” (15 years old) and “Tua Lek” (14 years old).
Narongwit Chotchoy, Director of the zoo, expressed his joy over the event, highlighting that this baby langur marks the third successful birth at the zoo. He emphasized that Five-Colored Langurs are one of the most stunning animals in the world due to their colorful fur and are native to the rainforests of Indochina, particularly Vietnam and Laos.
The baby langur is currently in good health, often seen playing and climbing around with its mother. Though the little one is still under its mother’s care, it is beginning to explore the surroundings. The zoo has not yet named the baby but plans to announce the name soon.Visitors are invited to come and admire the beauty of the new addition to the zoo, located next to the penguin exhibit. This rare species is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and it is illegal to buy or sell them.
For more information, please contact Khao Kheow Open Zoo at 038-318444.
Visitors can now see this colorful and rare species in the zoo, contributing to its breeding success in Thailand. 
Narongwit Chotchoy, Director of the zoo, expresses his joy over the event, highlighting that this baby langur marks the third successful birth at the zoo.
6 April 06 2025Daily Newsletterhttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=496684 - Bo Win’s Water-Throwing Day – The first Songkran celebration of its kind in ThailandPATTAYA, Thailand – The “Water-Throwing Day” in Bo Win, Sriracha, Chonburi, holds the distinction of being Thailand’s first Songkran celebration of its kind, April 6. Held along the Nong Kang Pla-Huai Prab road and Eastern Seaboard road in Bo Win, this unique festival draws crowds from neighboring provinces and districts. Now in its eighth year, […]
Bo Win’s Water-Throwing Day is the first Songkran celebration in Thailand, marking the beginning of the Songkran festivities in the country. PATTAYA, Thailand – The “Water-Throwing Day” in Bo Win, Sriracha, Chonburi, holds the distinction of being Thailand’s first Songkran celebration of its kind, April 6. Held along the Nong Kang Pla-Huai Prab road and Eastern Seaboard road in Bo Win, this unique festival draws crowds from neighboring provinces and districts. Now in its eighth year, the event continues to grow, attracting both locals and tourists eager to participate in the fun.
Organized by the Bo Win Sub-district Administrative Organization (SAO) and the Bo Win Police Station, the festival is designed to maintain the traditional customs of Songkran while ensuring public safety. Visitors are encouraged to throw water responsibly, as the event’s organizers promote a fun, safe, and alcohol-free environment.
To manage the large crowds, local police and rescue teams have been mobilized to ensure safety, with a particular focus on controlling inappropriate attire and alcohol sales. In addition, law enforcement is taking a strong stance against any dangerous behavior, particularly focusing on individuals consuming alcohol while driving or riding motorcycles.The festivities are expected to last until 9:00 PM, providing ample time for attendees to enjoy the cultural event and the lively atmosphere. As the first official Songkran event in Thailand, Bo Win’s Water-Throwing Day sets the tone for the nationwide celebrations to come.
Local authorities and residents work together to ensure a fun and safe experience, maintaining traditional customs during the event. 
Police and rescue teams are stationed across the event to ensure public safety and prevent dangerous behavior, especially concerning alcohol consumption. 
The celebration will continue until 9:00 PM, with festival-goers enjoying water-throwing fun in a vibrant atmosphere. 
Bo Win’s Water-Throwing Day sets the tone for the nationwide celebrations to come.
6 April 06 2025Daily Newsletterhttps://www.pattayamail.com/?p=496673