A Chabad center located in Pai, Mae Hong Son province—one of six such centers operating in Thailand.
PHUKET — Senior Israeli security officials met with Thai police commanders in Phuket on Sunday to address concerns over Chabad centers that bar entry to Thai authorities and growing reports of misconduct by Israeli tourists.
Mr. Avi Bitton, Senior Advisor to the Israeli National Security Council, led a delegation including Israeli security personnel stationed in Thailand, embassy representatives, and Chabad security chiefs to the Regional Police Bureau 8 headquarters for the hour-long meeting.
The Israeli team met with Pol. Lt. Gen. Jarut Srutayaporn, Deputy Commander of Police Region 8, Pol. Lt. Gen. Suwat Suksri, Surat Thani Provincial Police Commissioner, and Pol. Lt. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum, Phuket Provincial Police Commissioner.
Chabad Centers Block Thai Officials
The meeting focused on access restrictions at Thailand’s six Chabad centers, located in Pai (Mae Hong Son), Koh Samui and Koh Phangan (Surat Thani), and Kathu and Chalong districts (Phuket). The facilities currently prohibit entry to non-Israelis, including Thai law enforcement.
Israeli security advisor Avi Bitton meets with Thai police commanders at Police Region 8 headquarters in Phuket, October 27, 2025.
Chabad security officials cited safety concerns related to regional conflicts as the reason for the restrictions. Each center maintains its own security personnel who prevent outside contact with visitors and staff.
Israeli officials agreed to coordinate with Thai authorities to permit regular monitoring of the centers.
Zero Tolerance for Violations
The meeting also addressed recent incidents of illegal behavior by Israeli tourists, including law violations and unauthorized business operations.
“Beyond assuring safety and religious freedom for Israeli visitors, we discussed inappropriate behavior and legal violations frankly,” said Pol. Lt. Gen. Suwat. “Chabad security leadership will consult with rabbis to educate visitors about Thai laws and proper conduct.”
On enforcement, Pol. Lt. Gen. Suwat was clear: “The Israeli security team confirmed we should proceed with legal action immediately without exceptions for any violations.”
He expressed confidence the talks would significantly reduce problematic behavior by Israeli tourists in Thailand.
EM DISTRICT (EMPORIUM, EMQUARTIER, EMSPHERE), the ultimate lifestyle and entertainment destination — proudly presents “EM DISTRICT HAUNTED HALLOWEEN 2025”, a spectacular Halloween celebration right in the heart of Sukhumvit. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of thrills and chills with world-class haunted attractions and a wide array of festive Halloween activities, happening now through November 2, 2025, across EMPORIUM, EMQUARTIER, and EMSPHERE.
This year’s highlight features the global sensation “UNDER THE CASTLE” —
an immersive fantasy haunted experience co-created by Jackson Wang and Henry Zhang, CEO
and co-founder of UNDER THE CASTLE bringing this world-renowned attraction to Thailand for the very first time. Tickets are available at on-site counters and online via Ticketmelon at www.ticketmelon.com/underthecastle/UTCBKK. Experience exhilarating fun with “Pumpkie
& Spookie’s Mischief Ride”, a thrilling bumper car adventure at EM WONDER, 5th Floor,
EMSPHERE, and explore the UTC Gift Shop, offering exclusive “Pumpkie & Spookie” merchandise from apparel and collectibles to limited-edition souvenirs.Indulge in a festive feast at the Street Market in front of Emsphere, featuring a curated selection of Thai street food and international cuisines.
Year-End Global Promotion Offers Bonus Points for Stays Worldwide, Including New Marriott Bonvoy Outdoors Platform
October 2025, Bethesda, MD – As the year draws to a close and travelers seek new horizons, Marriott Bonvoy invites its members to turn ordinary trips into extraordinary adventures. With the launch of its latest Global Promotion, the award-winning travel platform helps guests explore the world’s most breathtaking destinations and earn more along the way.
From October 28, 2025, to January 10, 2026, registered Marriott Bonvoy members can earn 2,025 bonus points on up to three stays, plus an additional 2,000 bonus points on each stay with Marriott Bonvoy Outdoors.
Marriott Bonvoy Outdoors brings together 400+ hotels, 50,000+ Homes & Villas, Marriott Bonvoy Tours & Activities, and more, into a singular digital platform that enables travelers to discover and book their next travel destination based on seven distinct outdoor passions: ski, camp and hike, bike, paddle, fish, dive, and surf.
Whether you’re chasing winter’s first snowfall or embarking on a family hiking getaway, every eligible stay during this promotion is a step toward new memories and more points. Registration opens today here: https://www.marriott.com/loyalty/promotion.mi?promotion=CB25 and closes December 27, 2025.
Private property signage at a luxury villa on Koh Phangan, part of an investigation into suspected foreign nominee businesses on the Surat Thani island.
KOH PHANGAN — A sweeping investigation into suspected foreign-controlled businesses on Koh Phangan has uncovered a complex web of nominee arrangements, with more than 100 companies registered at a single address on the world-famous tourist island in Surat Thani province.
The crackdown comes amid growing outcry from local residents and business owners who say foreign investors are using Thai nominees to illegally circumvent laws restricting land ownership and certain business activities to Thai nationals.
Khomon Inkhong, Vice President of the Phangan Hotel and Tourism Association, said local entrepreneurs have witnessed changing behavior among certain groups of foreign visitors. While most tourists are respectful, some have established businesses that operate outside the legal framework, causing disturbances and unfair competition for legitimate Thai operators.
“This has led to calls for authorities to strictly enforce the law,” Khomon said.
Police Deploy Four-Point Strategy at Tourist Hotspots
National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet has been closely monitoring the situation and outlined comprehensive measures to combat illegal business activities and crimes committed by foreigners, not only on Koh Phangan but also in other major tourist destinations.
Immigration Police question two Israeli nationals at Hotel Arcana on Koh Phangan during a raid on October 17, 2025.
The measures include enhanced screening at entry points to prevent blacklisted or banned individuals from entering Thailand. Police will implement four proactive strategies: inspect foreign residences; verify visa extensions before and after approval, especially for high-risk nationalities; arrest overstayers and penalize landlords who provide accommodation unlawfully; and compile local intelligence to conduct coordinated raids with other agencies when suspicious activity is detected.
Authorities will also share information with Interpol to support international crime suppression efforts.
Surat Thani Ranks Second-Highest for Nominee Business Risk
Department of Business Development (DBD) Director-General Poonpong Naiyanapakorn said the agency is prioritizing enforcement against Thai nationals acting as nominees for foreign investors, as this practice distorts the economic structure and disadvantages legitimate Thai businesses. The DBD is coordinating with the Tourist Police, Immigration Bureau, Revenue Department, Land Offices, and local authorities.
Surat Thani has been identified as Thailand’s second-highest risk area for nominee businesses. Investigators discovered that among 7,096 targeted legal entities nationwide, five Thai shareholders—one corporate entity and four individuals—were listed as shareholders in 256 companies based in Koh Phangan. More than 100 of these companies share the same registered office address, raising red flags about the legitimacy of these business structures.
Foreign tourists enjoy Koh Phangan’s beaches. The popular island has become the focus of a government crackdown on nominee business arrangements.
Luxury Villa Project Linked to Israeli Investors Under Scrutiny
During a field inspection on October 21, officials identified two business groups suspected of nominee activity:
First Consultants 47 Co., Ltd., an accounting firm whose owner is listed as a shareholder in 66 different companies—a pattern consistent with nominee arrangements.
Sithaya Beachfront Villa, a luxury development featuring eight villas renting for 13,000 baht ($398) per night, operating without a required hotel license.
Authorities summoned the project manager and six foreign guests for questioning. Preliminary findings indicate suspicious land ownership valued at more than 152 million baht ($4.65 million), held by two Thai-registered companies in which Israeli nationals own 49% of the shares—the maximum foreign ownership allowed under Thai law.
Investigators discovered that another Israeli firm later purchased additional shares, creating a structure possibly designed to evade taxes and conceal true ownership while maintaining effective control beyond legal limits.
The DBD is gathering evidence to submit to prosecutors for legal action and expanding inquiries into related companies to close legal loopholes that allow foreigners to unlawfully control Thai businesses.
Natural forested hillside on Koh Phangan illegally constructed for development, according to military task force investigating land encroachment.
Foreign Workers Face Deportation for Restricted Occupations
Department of Employment Director-General Pichet Thongphand said nationwide inspections are underway in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and Pattaya to ensure all foreign workers are legally employed.
He emphasized that all foreigners must possess valid identification and work permits and must not engage in any of the 40 occupations reserved exclusively for Thai nationals—including professions such as tour guiding, massage therapy, and certain retail activities.
Violators face fines ranging from 5,000 to 50,000 baht ($153–1,530), deportation, and a two-year ban from obtaining new work permits.
Employers who hire unlicensed foreign workers or allow them to work outside their permitted scope face even stiffer penalties: fines of 10,000 to 100,000 baht ($306–3,060) per worker, imprisonment of up to one year for repeat offenses, and a three-year ban on employing foreigners.
“We are taking every complaint seriously,” Pichet said. “There have been numerous reports of foreigners illegally competing with Thai workers across several regions, and we will ensure the law is enforced fairly and decisively.”
The crackdown reflects growing tension in Thailand’s tourism-dependent regions, where local communities are increasingly concerned about foreign dominance in property markets and service industries, while authorities seek to balance welcoming international investment with protecting Thai economic interests.
Day one of the two-day celebration at Paragon Hall, recognising excellence in hospitality with influential tastemakers and cultural icons, live performances and Tatler Best’s signature “shining sea of hexagons” group shot
October 2025, Bangkok, Thailand: The Tatler Best Awards returns for its second regional edition, expanding from Asia to the Asia-Pacific and welcoming new destinations such as Australia and New Zealand. The unveiling of the Tatler Best 100 Hotels, Restaurants and Bars took place at Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon, bringing together 500+ industry leaders, influential tastemakers and Tatler community members from 20+ destinations. The full winners list is available at media.tatlerasia.com/list/best.
Presented in partnership with Mastercard and Priceless, Siam Paragon, SJM Resorts, S.A. and Amazing Thailand, the ceremony opened the two-day programme that recognises establishments setting new standards of creativity, craftsmanship and guest experience across Asia-Pacific.
A Regional Platform for Excellence
The Tatler Best Awards serve as Tatler Asia’s flagship regional platform, distinct from the Tatler Best lists in individual markets such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. Throughout the year, Tatler celebrates national achievements across its local editions, culminating in this regional gathering that unites the most exceptional establishments from across Asia-Pacific.
Two-night “Discover Seaside Escape” features immersive activities to bring parents & kids closer together
Pattaya, Thailand: October, 2025 – Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa, the stylish new seafront oasis just steps from Jomtien Beach, is a family paradise with an amazing array of experiences for all ages. Now, this inspiring new resort has revealed details of its inaugural Marriott Bonvoy Moments package – a highly immersive three-day/two-night escape that will let loved ones relax, reconnect, and create lifelong memories.
Marriott Bonvoy Moments are curated to connect members to the people, places and passions they love. At Pattaya Marriott Resort and Spa, the upbeat spirit of this fun-filled family resort is brought to life with the “Discover Seaside Escapes” package, which is filled with immersive activities, cultural workshops, and culinary journeys to bring parents and kids closer together.
This package starts traveling from 20 – 22 November 2025. Only five “Discover Seaside Escapes” are available. To secure this exciting Marriott Bonvoy Moments package, please visit https://moments.marriottbonvoy.com/en-us/moments/20286 and place your bid from now until November 10, 2025. Bids start from just 90,000 points!
Police officers disguised as construction workers arrest Nigerian suspects for selling drugs using a mouth-concealment method in the Nana district of Bangkok on October 26, 2025.
BANGKOK — In a Hollywood-style operation dubbed “Take Down Black-Shadow Nana,” Bangkok Metropolitan Police and 40 anti-narcotics officers disguised as construction workers and night revelers conducted a dramatic pre-dawn raid on Sunday, arresting eight foreign nationals and one Thai citizen for drug trafficking in the heart of the capital’s tourist district.
The operation was launched following reports on the tourist community page ThailandTourism warning that groups of African men in the Nana-Asoke area of Bangkok were selling drugs, engaging in fraud, and pickpocketing tourists.
Metropolitan Police, working with the Narcotics Suppression Bureau and Lumpini Police Station, launched surveillance operations and identified a group of men selling drugs to passing tourists while deliberately avoiding contact with Thais to prevent undercover police detection.
Sophisticated Technique Discovered
CCTV footage analysis revealed the suspects’ sophisticated operation: they would flee immediately upon spotting Thais or anyone resembling police. Their special technique involved concealing drugs in their mouths—when customers approached, they would spit the drugs out discreetly to complete transactions. If authorities appeared, they would swallow the drugs to destroy evidence.
Police meticulously planned the crackdown operation for the early morning of October 26. The 40-strong team included 20 officers dressed as construction workers who arrived in pickup trucks, parking near a construction site on Sukhumvit Soi 11 in Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana District—close to where the suspects congregated.
Dramatic Arrest Unfolds Like Action Movie Scene
The breakthrough came when two foreign nationals passed by and the drug dealers approached them. As suspects began spitting out drugs and exchanging items in plain sight, the undercover construction workers casually surrounded the group. When the team leader gave the order—”Take them”—officers swooped in. While some suspects attempted to flee and others swallowed the evidence, police successfully apprehended all nine individuals along with drug evidence.
The arrested include eight Nigerian nationals: Mr. Onyekama Frankline, 29; Mr. Onuoha Desmond, 34; Mr. Nnawuke Lucky, 29; Mr. Alahieobi Favour, 35; Mr. Ubammadu Chibuzor, 32; Mr. Amajioyi Chinaemeze, 23; Mr. Udemgba Innocent, 28; and Mr. Nwachukwu Chisom, 41. The ninth suspect is Thai national Phanuwat Thanawet, 36, from Udon Thani province. Evidence seized included 3,000 baht ($92) in cash and 3.8 grams of cocaine.
Police Major General Theeradet Thumsuthee, Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau overseeing narcotics operations and head of the arrest team, explained that these Nigerian groups typically smuggle drugs into Thailand by swallowing them.
“They wrap drugs tightly in plastic, swallow large quantities before boarding flights to Thailand, then excrete them upon arrival for sale at tourist locations. Cocaine is the most common drug involved,” he said.
Suspects Given Milk to Recover Swallowed Evidence
“Once the drugs enter Thailand via air travel, they wrap them in tape and conceal them in their mouths. When arrested, they immediately swallow the drugs so officers find no evidence. In this case, we used undercover tactics to reach the suspects quickly, but several still managed to swallow the drugs in time. Our investigation team gave the suspects milk and monitored their bowel movements to recover evidence,” Maj. Gen. Theeradet added.
He noted that during the Nana operation, many foreign tourists expressed strong appreciation for the police action. “This drug-dealing group has caused significant distress to numerous tourists and severely damaged Thailand’s tourism image,” he said.
Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, has ordered continued crackdowns on such transnational crime throughout the metropolitan area.
Bangkok, Thailand – October, 2025 – The Thailand Real Estate Agent Awards 2025 concluded spectacularly at Park Hyatt Bangkok, welcoming over 300 distinguished guests from across the nation to celebrate the success and excellence of professional real estate agents — the driving force behind Thailand’s property industry. Over 25 outstanding real estate agencies from across the country were honored
Marking its first-ever edition, the Thailand Real Estate Agent Awards represents a major milestone in elevating the standards and prestige of the real estate agency profession in Thailand.
The ceremony was organized by Dot Property Group, in collaboration with the Thai Real Estate Brokers Association (TREBA), to honor the dedication, professionalism, and outstanding achievements of real estate agencies throughout the year.
The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Real Estate Agency of the Year , awarded to Connex Property for its exceptional performance in strategic growth, innovation, and leadership in the mid-range property segment. The prestigious Personality of the Year honor was presented to Ms. Janjira Kanjanakontong, whose leadership and dedication have helped raise professional standards across Thailand’s real estate industry.
The grandest fashion event of the year, “Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week 2025” (BIFW2025), concluded with a resounding success after four spectacular days that ignited the regional fashion scene. Featuring 11 groundbreaking runway shows from Thailand’s top designers and brands, the event drew an impressive turnout of fashion industry leaders, celebrities, and style enthusiasts, with record-breaking full-capacity audiences for every show. The remarkable success of BIFW2025 once again underscored Bangkok’s growing stature as a global fashion hub.
BIFW2025, held from October 16–19, 2025, was a spectacular collaboration between Siam Paragon and key partners, the four-day grand runway of BIFW2025 received an overwhelming response, attracting a dazzling lineup of celebrities, artists, fashion enthusiasts, and influencers who flocked to the event to witness spectacular showcases from 11 leading Thai brands. Creating immense buzz both offline and across digital platforms, BIFW2025 quickly became a top-trending topic across all social media platforms and further enhancing the value and visibility of Thailand’s fashion industry. It serves as a key driving force within the creative economy, effectively leveraging fashion week as a platform to advance Thai fashion businesses at both the regional and international levels.
One of the images shared by Princess Sirivannavari on Facebook alongside her message, reflecting her deep bond with Queen Sirikit, who recently passed away.
BANGKOK — Following the passing of Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother, Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya shared a deeply personal message on her Facebook page, expressing her profound bond with her grandmother.
“‘My dear grandchild’ – these words echo forever in my heart,” the Princess wrote. “She would introduce me to those who came to see her, saying ‘This is my grandchild… my grandchild Sirivannavari.'”
One of the images shared by Princess Sirivannavari on Facebook alongside her message, reflecting her deep bond with Queen Sirikit, who recently passed away.
The Princess revealed that her name, Sirivannavari, was personally chosen and bestowed by the Queen Mother herself. “This royal name transformed my life, giving me a new beginning,” she wrote.
The Queen Mother raised, nurtured, and taught her granddaughter like a mother. She would tuck her into bed, lead her in prayers, and instruct her in both Thai etiquette and international protocol. She taught history and shared countless fascinating stories, always showing boundless kindness.
One of the images shared by Princess Sirivannavari on Facebook alongside her message, reflecting her deep bond with Queen Sirikit, who recently passed away.
“I was happy every time I participated in activities with my grandmother,” Princess Sirivannavari recalled. “I accompanied her swimming in Hua Hin, where she taught me to swim. She loved the sea very much.”
Among her cherished memories are trips accompanying the Queen Mother to various regions – the North, Northeast, and South – during school breaks. “While other children went on vacation or attended special classes, I felt that accompanying my grandmother to remote areas was unknowing training. I absorbed her working methods,” she wrote.
One of the images shared by Princess Sirivannavari on Facebook alongside her message, reflecting her deep bond with Queen Sirikit, who recently passed away.
The Queen Mother employed an experiential teaching approach, encouraging her granddaughter to speak with villagers and learn by doing. “This absorption made me want to learn and continue the work,” the Princess explained.
Her passion for design and art was inspired by the Queen Mother, as was her study of French – motivated by curiosity about what her grandparents discussed together. The Queen Mother encouraged her to study art, culture, Thai music, and international music, always offering encouragement and praise for her performances.
One of the images shared by Princess Sirivannavari on Facebook alongside her message, reflecting her deep bond with Queen Sirikit, who recently passed away.
The Princess vividly remembers one morning at 7 a.m. when she bid farewell to her grandmother before leaving to study in France. The Queen Mother offered invaluable advice, emphasizing the importance of learning Thai history. “When studying abroad, don’t forget your Thai identity. Take the best of what they have and adapt it,” she counseled, sharing her own educational experiences.
“She didn’t teach directly, but taught me how to learn independently and thoroughly,” the Princess wrote. “Today, I never thought I would achieve what I have.”
One of the images shared by Princess Sirivannavari on Facebook alongside her message, reflecting her deep bond with Queen Sirikit, who recently passed away.⁸
The Queen Mother taught her to be strong, patient, determined, and compassionate. She often praised the Thai people, and one lesson remained deeply embedded in the Princess’s heart: “Thai people have the blood of artists within them. Even if they are farmers or agriculturists, with proper training in art, they can create magnificent works.”
“For me, my grandmother will never truly leave,” Princess Sirivannavari concluded. “Everything she cared about, everything she loved – I will continue her legacy forever. Sirivannavari October 26, 2025, 10:25 p.m.”
Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother passed away on October 24, 2025. His Majesty the King has issued a Royal Command for the Bureau of the Royal Household to arrange the Royal Funeral with the highest honors according to royal tradition.
The royal remains lie in state at the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall in the Grand Palace. His Majesty has graciously granted permission for members of the Royal Family and royal servants to observe mourning for a period of one year. The Royal Cremation Ceremony is expected to take place next year.
