Monsoon Valley Vineyard Celebrates the Annual Harvest Festival 2025

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21 February 2025, 17:41

Monsoon Valley, Thailand’s largest vineyard and most internationally awarded wine, invites wine lovers and adventure seekers to the “Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival 2025”, taking place from February 22 – March 2, 2025, at its stunning vineyard in Hua Hin.

Spanning 300 rai (110 hectares) and producing over 300,000 bottles of wine per year, Monsoon Valley is home to more than 10 grape varietals. With a reputation built on over 430 international awards, Monsoon Valley wines are enjoyed worldwide, solidifying its status as Thailand’s most recognized and celebrated winery.

2025 – A Vintage Shaped by Nature

This year’s harvest at Monsoon Valley has been one of the most challenging yet, influenced by extreme weather conditions. The season began with intense drought before shifting to above-average rainfall, resulting in the latest pruning in the vineyard’s history. Despite a slightly lower yield, the extended cool weather significantly enhanced grape quality. Cooler nights have allowed the fruit to develop beautifully, with smooth tannins, balanced acidity, and a gradual increase in sugar levels. This year’s vintage promises to be one of remarkable character.

Harvest Festival Activities

The Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival is an annual event that offers a rare opportunity to experience the vineyard at its most exciting time – harvest season. Over nine days, visitors can take part in immersive wine experiences, including:

– Grape picking & vineyard tour – Explore the vineyard by car and hand-pick grapes straight from the vines.

– Grape stomping & wine blending – Get hands-on with traditional winemaking techniques.

– Daily activities – Held from 10:00 – 16:00 hrs. with only six sessions per day (Adult 490 THB per person, Child 6-12yo: 300 THB per person, Children under 6yo, free of charge)

For those eager to dive deeper into winemaking, a special event “VINE TO GLASS – A WINEMAKER’S JOURNEY” will be held on February 28, 2025. This exclusive experience offers an in-depth look at the winemaking process, guided by expert winemakers. With only 15 participants per session, this event will run at 11:00 hrs. and 14:00 hrs. (990 THB per person).

The Grand Highlight – Monsoon Valley Harvest Dinner on Saturday March 1st

The festival’s most anticipated event, the Monsoon Valley Harvest Dinner, takes place on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 16:00 onwards. This exclusive buffet-style dinner features a curated selection of Monsoon Valley’s finest red, white, and sparkling wines, expertly paired with a gourmet menu crafted from top-quality ingredients. Guests can indulge in exquisite flavors while enjoying live music in a romantic vineyard setting. The evening concludes at 21:30 hrs., with tickets priced at 2,990 THB per person, Dinner (Non-Alcoholic Option) 1,990 THB per person, Child 6-12yo 995 THB per person, Children under 6yo free of charge (conditions apply).

Introducing Donbrusco – Thailand’s First Sparkling Red Wine

This year’s festival shines a spotlight on Thailand’s first semi-sparkling red wine, the Monsoon Valley Donbrusco. Made from the German grape variety Dornfelder, which thrives in Hua Hin’s tropical climate, this deep ruby-purple wine features soft bubbles, a slightly sweet taste, and a light 10% alcohol content. Perfect for pairing with spicy Thai dishes or enjoying as a refreshing afternoon drink, Donbrusco is a limited-edition release with only 2,000 bottles produced per year. Monsoon Valley Donbrusco will take center stage at the Harvest Dinner on March 1st, where guests can enjoy it as part of the evening’s celebrations.

Join the Celebration

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the magic of harvest season at Monsoon Valley Vineyard. The Monsoon Valley Harvest Festival 2025 runs from February 22 – March 2, 2025, offering unforgettable moments of wine, food, and celebration in Thailand’s most beautiful vineyard landscapes.

For more information, please visit https://www.monsoonvalley.com/en/harvest-season

Bangkok Art Biennale Concludes with Gaia-themed Symposium

By

MC Marketing

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21 February 2025, 15:36

Ravinder Reddy, Parvati, 2019. Painted gilded on polyester resin fiberglass. 165.1 x 86.36 x 134.62 cm. Courtesy of Bangkok Art Biennale

Bangkok, 13 February 2025 – The Bangkok Art Biennale 2024 proudly presents its final symposium, Gaia, Women, and Bodies, on February 19, 2025, at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC). This full-day event will explore profound themes of femininity, nature, and the human form through insightful discussions with leading artists, curators, and scholars from around the world.

The symposium will commence at 10:30 with opening remarks by Dr. Surapong Suebwonglee, Chairman of the National Soft Power Development Committee, and H.E. Jean-Claude Poimboeuf, Ambassador of France to Thailand.

PANEL DISCUSSION #1: Revitalizing Louise Bourgeois’s Hold Me Close Memorial in Krabi

10:45 – 12.00

Jerry Gorovoy, President of The Easton Foundation, and Philip Larratt-Smith, Curator at The Easton Foundation, will join Kulapat Yantrasast, Founding Partner and Creative Director of wHY Architecture,, and Prof. Dr. Apinan Poshyananda, Artistic Director of Bangkok Art Biennale, in a discussion moderated by Luckana Kunavichayanont, Curator and Executive Committee of Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC). This panel will reflect on the iconic sculpture Hold Me Close by Louise Bourgeois, originally created as a memorial to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. The conversation will explore the past, present, and future of this poignant artwork.

Session conducted in English with Thai translation available.

PANEL DISCUSSION #2: Reflection of Life and Death: Paintings of Princess Marsi

14.15 – 15.45

This session will feature Emeritus Professor Dr. M.R. Jisnuson Svasti, Chairman of Marsi Foundation, alongside writer and filmmaker Ing Kanjanavanit and Professor Emeritus Dr. Sodchuen Chaiprasathna, Former Head of the French Language Department at the Faculty of Archaeology, Silpakorn University. Moderated by Prof. Dr. Apinan Poshyananda, the panel will explore the surrealist-fantastic works of Princess Marsi Sukhumbhand Paribatra, renowned for her imaginative paintings blending Eastern philosophy with Western mythology.

Session conducted in Thai with English translation available.

PANEL DISCUSSION #3: The Female Gaze: Conversation on Bodies and the Works of Ravinder Reddy

15.45 – 17.00

Internationally acclaimed BAB 2024 artist Ravinder Reddy and Prof. Dr. Apinan Poshyananda will engage in a compelling conversation on Reddy’s celebrated sculptures that emphasize themes of femininity and womanhood. Moderated by Varin Sachdev, News Anchor, Radio Host and Actor, this panel will highlight Reddy’s innovative use of scale, materials, and form to honor and explore the female form.

Session conducted in English with Thai translation available.

This symposium serves as a platform for critical discourse and creative exchange, reflecting the Bangkok Art Biennale 2024’s theme, Nurture Gaia. All sessions will be recorded for publicity purposes.

Event Details:

Date: 19 February 2025
Time: 10:00 – 17:00
Venue: Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), Auditorium, 5th Floor
Registration:
Morning session (10:00 – 10:30)
Afternoon session (14:15 – 14:30)
Pre-registration: https://forms.gle/B5yj4DgJNfs5Pye86

Princess Marsi Paribatra, (left) L’Arche de Noé, 1992. Oil on canvas. 134 x 212.3 cm; and (right) L’embarquement pour Cythère, 1985. Oil on canvas. 133.7 x 198.5 cm. Courtesy of Marsi Foundation and Bangkok Art Biennale

Laotian Woman Arrested in Khon Kaen for Online Prostitution

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Khaosod English

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21 February 2025, 14:28

KHON KAEN — Cyber police and Khon Kaen police have arrested a 28-year-old Laotian woman for allegedly offering sexual services through social media platforms at a local hotel.

The Technology Crime Suppression Division of Khon Kaen Provincial Police, led by Police Colonel Pornsak Ngamdee, arrested Ms. Touy during a sting operation at a hotel in Muang district. She was charged with advertising prostitution through electronic media and illegal entry into the Kingdom.

The arrest came after police discovered advertisements for sexual services on platform X under the username “Services in Khon Kaen” directing customers to contact through Line ID. An undercover officer contacted the suspect, who offered services at 1,500 baht per hour, including room charges.

During the arrest, police seized an iPhone 15 Plus and marked banknotes used in the operation. The suspect, who speaks fluent Thai, cooperated with authorities and voluntarily surrendered the evidence.

Ms. Touy faces multiple charges, including illegal entry into Thailand and prostitution-related offenses. She has been transferred to Muang Khon Kaen Police Station for further legal proceedings.

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CKPower: Baht 10,789 million Revenue in 2024, Upbeat on 2025 Outlook

By

MC Marketing

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21 February 2025, 14:21

Mr. Thanawat Trivisvavet, Managing Director of CK Power Public Company Limited or CKPower (SET: CKP), one of the region’s largest producers of electricity from renewables with one of the lowest carbon footprints, announced that in 2024, CKPower recorded total revenue of Baht 10,789 million. The company’s earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) stood at Baht 5,554 million, representing an 8.0% year-over-year increase, highlighting CKPower’s strong cash flow stability despite challenges posed by climate change along with volatile and rising interest rate. Meanwhile, net profit attributable to equity holders was Baht 1,345 million, reflecting a 8.0% decline, primarily due to a lower share of profit from an associate company and increased finance costs related to CKPower’s investment in the under-construction Luang Prabang Hydroelectric Power Project.

One of the key factors driving strong EBITDA growth was the 25.3% increase in electricity sales revenue from Nam Ngum 2 Power Company Limited (NN2) compared to the previous year. This increase was driven by higher water levels in the reservoir at the beginning of 2024 and greater water inflow throughout the year due to La Niña. These favorable conditions enabled NN2 to increase its electricity generation declaration and achieve its record-high net profit in 2024.

Mr. Thanawat stated that despite the dry season, performance in the first half of 2025 is expected to surpass that of 2024, as the water level in Nam Ngum 2 Hydroelectric Power Plant’s reservoir is higher than that of the previous year, enabling NN2 to declare approximately 5% higher power availability in January year-over-year. Similarly, the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Power Plant experienced increased inflow volumes in January 2025 year-over-year due to the continuing influence of La Niña. As a result, XPCL’s electricity sales in January were approximately 23% higher than in the same period last year.

Furthermore, three solar power projects supplying electricity to Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM), with a total installed capacity of 7.0 MW in the first phase, are progressing as planned, with 65% construction completion as of the end of December 2024. One project commenced commercial operations in late December 2024, with the remaining projects scheduled for completion within Q2 2025. This marks a significant milestone in advancing renewable energy adoption within Thailand’s mass rapid transit rail systems.

CKPower continues to maintain a strong financial position. As of December 31, 2024, the company’s liquidity ratio stood at 1.86, marking a year-over-year increase of 0.18. The net interest-bearing debt to shareholders’ equity ratio remained low at 0.52, demonstrating the company’s efficient liquidity management. The anticipated policy rate cuts by both the U.S. Federal Reserve and the Bank of Thailand, coupled with NN2’s redemption of Baht 1,400 million in debentures last year, are expected to further reduce the company’s financial burden and strengthen its capital structure. CKPower will continue to monitor interest rate movements and maintain appropriate long-term debt management.

Mr. Thanawat stated that CKPower is committed to driving growth through the expansion of renewable energy development and the enhancement of energy security, while also contributing to Thailand’s transition toward a low-carbon and sustainable society. The company’s sustainability efforts have earned multiple recognitions from leading national and international organizations, including: A “AAA” SET ESG Rating from the Stock Exchange of Thailand, Recognition in the ESG100 list of sustainable investment companies by the Thaipat Institute, An Excellent CG Score from the Thai Institute of Directors (IOD), and The AREA Awards from a leading non-governmental organization promoting responsible enterprises in Asia. CKPower’s commitment to sustainability is guided by its ‘C-K-P’ strategy, which serves as a core framework for business operations. This strategy consists of: C – Clean Electricity: Aiming to achieve 100% renewable electricity consumption within its operations and increase the share of renewable energy capacity in the portfolio to over 95% by 2043, while advancing toward Net Zero by 2050. K – Kind Neighbor: Dedicated to upholding human rights and fostering strong community relations, operating with integrity, ensuring zero human rights violations, and enhancing the quality of life in local communities through clean electricity and social development initiatives. P – Partnership for Life: Driving sustainable growth through expanding its customer base and regional presence while leveraging innovation and digital technology to improve operational efficiency. With this vision and strategy, CKPower is actively taking concrete and measurable steps toward achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 in a structured and sustainable manner.

Thailand Rides White Lotus Wave with Hollywood Movie Tourism Strategy

By

Khaosod English

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21 February 2025, 00:08

Lisa Manobal joins MAX for The White Lotus Season 3 launch event as one of the series' cast members at River Park, ICONSIAM shopping center, Bangkok, on February 14, 2025.

BANGKOK — Thailand’s tourism industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by high-profile international productions choosing the country as their filming location. The HBO series “The White Lotus” and the upcoming “Jurassic World” are expected to significantly boost Thai tourism throughout 2025.

Immediate Impact

After the debut of ‘The White Lotus’ new season on February 17, hotel bookings at filming locations have surged dramatically. Properties in Bangkok, Samui, and Phuket have reported a 400-500% increase in booking rates compared to the same period last year. The series’ global appeal has been further amplified by the participation of Thai superstar Lisa Lalisa Manoban, whose worldwide fanbase has helped elevate Thailand’s tourism profile.

“Filming The White Lotus in Thailand not only showcases the country’s natural beauty and world-famous destinations but also highlights our first-class service standards,” says Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT’s deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas. “The production team praised Thailand for its smooth, well-coordinated filming process and exceptional facilities.”

samui white lotus1 scaled — International tourists enjoying Koh Samui beach on February 20, 2025.

Cheawsamoot added that the presence of Lisa in the series has created a dual tourism appeal. “While the show itself attracts English-speaking tourists from Europe and America, Lisa’s participation is drawing ASEAN fans eager to follow in her footsteps,” he explained.

“Based on this trend, we anticipate steady tourism throughout the year, with Koh Samui likely to maintain strong visitor numbers even during traditional low seasons.”

International Tourist Response

According to data from multiple sources, the impact is already evident in international travel trends:

Travel platform Opodo reports that UK tourists showed a 53% year-over-year increase in Thailand-related searches during February 17-23, 2024, with the UK ranking third globally for Thailand-focused searches
The Tourism Council of Thailand’s Vice President, Ratchaporn Poolsawat, reports that:
- Koh Samui experienced a 12% increase in hotel searches since the series aired
- US market searches rose 65% from January, surpassing Malaysian tourist interest
- The top five tourist groups searching for Koh Samui are from Israel, Germany, France, UK, and USA

samui white lotus2 — International tourists enjoying Koh Samui beach on February 20, 2025.

Hollywood’s Broader Impact

Beyond “The White Lotus,” Thailand’s tourism sector is benefiting from multiple international productions. The Tourism Department reports that foreign film productions in Thailand generated over 7 billion baht in filming value last year. Recent statistics show:

466 projects were filmed in Thailand by teams from 40 countries in 2023, generating 6.753 billion baht (approximately $201 million USD)
490 foreign film projects in 2024 brought in 6.415 billion baht (approximately $191 million USD)
January 2025 alone saw 62 projects completed, contributing 785 million baht (approximately $23.4 million USD)

AP25041596034426 — This image released by HBO shows Morgana O’Reilly, Arnas Fedaravicius, Christian Friedel, Dom Hetrakul and Lalisa Manobal from “The White Lotus.” (Fabio Lovino/HBO via AP)

Tourism Authority Response

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is capitalizing on this trend by developing specialized tourism packages:

Creating itineraries inspired by “The White Lotus” for US and European markets
Designing travel packages featuring series locations including Bangkok, Samui, and Phuket
Planning promotional campaigns for the upcoming “Jurassic World Rebirth,” filmed in Krabi, Trang, and Phang Nga
Targeting increased average tourist spending to 50,000-60,000 baht per trip

AP25041596038243 — This image released by HBO shows Lalisa Manobal, left, and Tayme Thapthimthong in a scene from “The White Lotus.” (Fabio Lovino/HBO via AP)

Hotel Industry Benefits

The impact on Thailand’s hospitality sector has been substantial. Minor International’s CEO, Dillip Rajakarier, reports that hotels featured in “The White Lotus” have seen a 40% increase in average daily rates, including:

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea (Hawaii)
Four Seasons Hotel Taormina (Italy)

Current Tourism Performance

Phuket’s tourism industry showed strong performance in early 2025, maintaining an average occupancy rate of 94% during January and February. The robust bookings are attributed to tourists from Russia, China, India, Australia, the UK, and Kazakhstan.

The combination of high-profile entertainment productions and strategic tourism initiatives positions Thailand for significant tourism growth throughout 2025, with benefits extending across multiple sectors of the economy.

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China Begins Repatriation from Thailand of More Than 1,000 Online Scam Workers Rescued from Myanmar

By

Associated Press

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20 February 2025, 22:39

BANGKOK (AP) — An airlift carrying more than 1,000 Chinese nationals who had worked at online scam centers in eastern Myanmar began Thursday, after the rescued workers were taken across the border to Thailand and put on chartered flights to China.

Thailand, China and Myanmar have coordinated efforts over the past month to shut down the scam centers that bilked victims around the world out of billions of dollars through false romantic ploys, bogus investment pitches and illegal gambling schemes.

Hundreds of thousands of people from Southeast Asia and elsewhere are estimated to have worked at such centers in Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos, with many who were recruited under false pretenses for other jobs found themselves trapped in virtual slavery.

AP25051491661671 — In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, a group of 200 Chinese citizens suspected of involvement in fraud are escorted by Chinese police after being repatriated from Myawaddy in Myanmar via Thailand on arrival at the airport in Nanjing in eastern China’s Jiangsu province on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025. (Yin Gang/Xinhua via AP)

Thai officials said recently that as many as 10,000 people may be repatriated from Myanmar from the online scam centers.

So far, 16 flights, or about four a day, have been scheduled to repatriate the Chinese nationals, accompanied by police. Because of the large number of Chinese — the projected number so far is 1,041 — Thailand is allowing Beijing to handle most of their processing and investigations on their return to China.

Thai officials told reporters on Thursday the rescued workers were being taken in batches of 50 across a bridge from Myanmar’s Myawaddy to Thailand’s Mae Sot, where they were processed — including with biometric scans — and sent on by bus to Mae Sot’s airport.

AP25051243555121 — A bus, believed to be carrying Chinese nationals who have worked at scam centers in eastern Myanmar, crosses the 2nd Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Mae Sot in Thailand’s Tak province before being flown back to China on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Sarot Meksophawannakul)

There they boarded China Southern Airlines planes, and about 200 Chinese citizens “suspected of involvement in fraud” were flown to an airport in the city of Nanjing, China’s official Xinhua news agency said.

Thai authorities are overseeing the evacuation and processing of scam center workers from other nations. Last week, some 260 people from 20 nations, including many from Africa, crossed from Myanmar into Thai custody after they were reportedly rescued from scam centers.

The organized repatriation of freed scam workers from nations other than China will begin on Sunday, Thai PBS reported.

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on a visit to Beijing earlier this month told Chinese leader Xi Jinping that Thailand would crack down on the scam networks. Just ahead of her visit, Thailand cut off electricity, internet and gas supplies to several areas in Myanmar hosting scam centers along the border, citing national security and the damage that Thailand has suffered from the operations.

Thailand wants to cooperate with China since reports about scam workers being trafficked through Thailand have circulated widely on Chinese social media. The Thai government and others fear it will discourage the lucrative market of inbound Chinese tourists.

AP25051491660643 — In this photo released by Xinhua News Agency, a group of Chinese citizens suspected of involvement in fraud are escorted by Chinese police after being repatriated from Myawaddy in Myanmar via Thailand on arrival at the airport in Nanjing in eastern China’s Jiangsu province on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025. (Ji Chunpeng/Xinhua via AP)

The Border Guard Force in Myawaddy, a militia of the Karen ethnic minority that controls the area, has organized the repatriation of foreign workers from Myanmar. But critics have accused the group of involvement in the criminal activities by providing protection to the scam centers. It denies the accusations.

An earlier crackdown on scam centers in Myanmar happened in late 2023, after China expressed embarrassment and concern over illegal casinos and scam operations along its border in Myanmar’s northern Shan state.

Ethnic guerrilla groups with close ties to Beijing shut down many operations, and an estimated 45,000 Chinese nationals suspected of involvement were repatriated.

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Associated Press journalist Jutarat Skulpichetrat reported from Chiang Mai, Thailand. Grant Peck reported from Bangkok.

From Chiang Mai to Turkey: The Two-Month Hunt for Dr. Sammy’s Killer

By

Khaosod English

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20 February 2025, 20:23

CHIANG MAI — The murder suspect in the killing of Dr. Sammy, a prominent transgender clinic owner in Chiang Mai, has been apprehended in Turkey and will be extradited to Thailand to face charges, authorities announced today.

Police Colonel Prachya Thisala, superintendent of Chiang Mai City Police Station, confirmed that the Foreign Affairs Division received notification of the arrest from Interpol. The suspect, Bilal Chefinu, a 30-year-old Moroccan national, was arrested at a hotel in Turkey pursuant to an arrest warrant issued by the Chiang Mai Provincial Court for intentional homicide.

The victim, Thitikan Dulikhanon, known professionally as Dr. Sammy, was discovered deceased at the Dr. Sammy Clinic in the Bishop Point complex on December 6, 2024. Investigators believe the murder occurred two days earlier, on December 4.

According to the medical examination, the cause of death was strangulation with a red elastic cord, which investigators found hanging on a clothes rack in the bathroom. The victim’s body was discovered covered with a blanket and towel, with visible strangulation marks on the neck.

Investigation revealed that Chefinu, who was the victim’s former partner before their separation a year ago, had entered the clinic with Dr. Sammy on December 4. Police believe he had attempted to reconcile with the victim.

Surveillance footage captured Chefinu departing alone in Dr. Sammy’s black Toyota Camry around 2:00 a.m. on December 5. He was later observed parking the vehicle near the city moat before taking a tuk-tuk to Chiang Mai International Airport, where he boarded a 6:00 a.m. flight to Hong Kong.

Following the incident, police gathered evidence and secured an arrest warrant, distributing red notices to various countries. After nearly two months of investigation, Turkish authorities successfully apprehended the suspect.

The case continues to develop as authorities work on extradition procedures to bring Chefinu back to Thailand to face charges.

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Previous report:

Thai Police Track Moroccan Suspect to Hong Kong After Clinic Owner’s Murder

Sleeping Brit’s ATM Card Stolen in Pattaya Hotel, Suspect Caught

By

Khaosod English

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20 February 2025, 18:51

ATM — Police arrest Miss Kham, 54, suspected of stealing 40,000 baht from British expat, near Soi Jomtien 4 in Chonburi's Bang Lamung district on Feb. 20, 2025.

PATTAYA — Police Major General Thawatchakiat Jindakhuansanong, Chief of Chonburi Provincial Police, has announced the arrest of a woman who stole an ATM card from a British expatriate and withdrew 40,000 baht ($1,188) while he was sleeping.

The incident occurred on February 2 when the victim, identified only as Mr. Pea, took a woman named Kham to a hotel in Soi 6, Pattaya Second Road. While Mr. Pea was sleeping, Kham allegedly left the room with his Kasikorn Bank ATM card. Upon waking, the victim discovered that 40,000 baht had been withdrawn from his account in four separate transactions of 10,000 baht each. His backpack containing a phone and other belongings was also missing.

After reading about a similar case involving a Turkish man, Mr. Pea, who was suffering from a foot infection that limited his mobility, contacted Khaosod English who brought the case to Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchkiat’s attention. He immediately ordered Pattaya police to investigate.

thai lure british2 — CCTV footage shows Miss Kham and Mr. Pea at the hotel counter where the incident occurred. Miss Kham later stole the British expat’s ATM card and other belongings on Feb. 2, 2025.

Following the police chief’s directive, the court approved an arrest warrant on February 19 for 54-year-old Kham, originally from Phetchabun province, on charges of theft and unauthorized use of another person’s electronic card. Police apprehended the suspect the following day at approximately 2:30 p.m. near a restaurant at the entrance of Soi Jomtien 4 in Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province.

During questioning, Kham confessed to stealing the ATM card and withdrawing the money, which she claimed to have already spent. A background check revealed that she had four previous criminal cases in Pattaya, with three theft cases in 2019 and a gambling offense in 2022. She had previously served prison time for similar offenses but continued to engage in criminal activity after her release.

Under Thai law, those who commit theft face imprisonment of up to 3 years and a fine not exceeding 6,000 baht.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchakiat emphasized that his department takes crimes against tourists seriously and will continue to work diligently to maintain safety in Pattaya’s tourist areas.

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Koh Phangan: The Best Destination for Your Yoga Retreat in Thailand

By

MC Marketing

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20 February 2025, 17:23

When it comes to finding the perfect yoga retreat in Thailand, Koh Phangan stands out as a paradise for wellness seekers. Famous for its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and thriving spiritual community, the island has become a global hotspot for yoga, meditation, and holistic healing. Whether you’re looking to deepen your practice, detox your body, or simply escape the stresses of modern life, Koh Phangan offers the ideal environment for transformation.

At the heart of this wellness haven is Orion Healing Centre, one of the island’s most renowned retreat centers. With its serene beachfront location, expert-led yoga classes, and nourishing vegan cuisine, Orion provides everything you need for a life-changing yoga retreat experience.

Why Choose Koh Phangan for Your Yoga Retreat?

Koh Phangan has evolved beyond its reputation for full moon parties, becoming a sanctuary for those seeking inner peace and holistic well-being. Here’s why the island is the ultimate yoga retreat destination:

1. A Thriving Wellness Community

Unlike other tourist-heavy locations, Koh Phangan has a unique energy that attracts spiritual seekers, healers, and wellness enthusiasts from all over the world. The island is home to a vibrant community of yoga practitioners, meditation teachers, and holistic therapists, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in personal growth and healing.

2. Stunning Natural Surroundings

Imagine practicing sunrise yoga on a quiet beach, meditating to the sounds of the ocean, or enjoying a healing massage under the shade of coconut trees. Koh Phangan’s breathtaking natural beauty enhances every aspect of the retreat experience, allowing you to reconnect with yourself in a peaceful and rejuvenating setting.

3. High-Quality Yoga Retreat Centers

Koh Phangan is home to some of Thailand’s best yoga retreat centers, offering a range of styles from Hatha and Vinyasa to Yin and Kundalini yoga. Many centers, like Orion Healing Centre, provide all-inclusive retreat packages that combine yoga, detox, and holistic healing therapies for a complete mind-body-spirit reset.

4. Affordable Yet Luxurious

Compared to Western countries, yoga retreats in Thailand—especially in Koh Phangan—are incredibly affordable. You can enjoy high-quality instruction, comfortable accommodations, and nourishing meals at a fraction of the cost you’d pay elsewhere, making it easier to invest in your well-being.

Orion Healing Centre: A Sanctuary for Yoga & Wellness

Located in the tranquil bay of Sri Thanu, Orion Healing Centre is one of Koh Phangan’s most established wellness retreats. With its beachfront yoga shalas, holistic healing programs, and plant-based dining, Orion offers a transformative retreat experience for both beginners and advanced practitioners.

Yoga & Meditation at Orion

Orion Healing Centre provides a diverse range of yoga styles, including:

Hatha Yoga – A gentle practice that focuses on alignment and breathwork.
Vinyasa Flow – A dynamic, flowing practice that builds strength and flexibility.
Yin Yoga – A slow, meditative practice that targets deep connective tissues.
Kundalini Yoga – A powerful practice that awakens energy through breath, movement, and mantra.

Daily meditation sessions complement the yoga classes, helping guests cultivate mindfulness and inner peace. Whether you’re looking to deepen your practice or simply relax and unwind, Orion’s expert instructors provide guidance tailored to your level.

Holistic Healing & Detox Programs

Beyond yoga, Orion offers a range of holistic healing therapies, including:

Reiki Energy Healing – A powerful practice for emotional and energetic balance.
Sound Healing – Using vibrations from instruments like Tibetan bowls to restore harmony.
Detox & Cleansing Programs – Designed to eliminate toxins and rejuvenate the body through fasting, colon cleansing, and herbal supplements.

These therapies help enhance physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, making Orion a truly holistic retreat center.

Vegan Dining: Nourishing the Body & Soul

One of the highlights of a retreat at Orion Healing Centre is its fully plant-based restaurant, serving delicious, nutrient-dense meals that support detoxification and vitality. The menu features:

Superfood Smoothie Bowls – Packed with fresh tropical fruits, nuts, and seeds.
Vegan Thai Specialties – Dishes like green curry, pad Thai, and tom yum soup, made with organic ingredients.
Raw & Gluten-Free Options – For those following a clean-eating lifestyle.

By embracing a plant-based diet during your retreat, you’ll experience increased energy levels, improved digestion, and a greater sense of well-being.

The Benefits of a Yoga Retreat in Koh Phangan

A retreat in Koh Phangan isn’t just about practicing yoga—it’s a complete reset for the body, mind, and soul. Some of the key benefits include:

Stress Reduction & Mental Clarity – Yoga and meditation help quiet the mind and reduce anxiety.
Physical Strength & Flexibility – Daily practice enhances muscle tone, posture, and overall health.
Detoxification & Rejuvenation – Plant-based meals and detox programs support a clean, energized body.
Spiritual Growth & Self-Discovery – Koh Phangan’s peaceful atmosphere fosters deep inner exploration.

Final Thoughts: Your Yoga Journey Starts Here

Koh Phangan is more than just a beautiful island—it’s a sanctuary for transformation. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, healing, or a deeper connection to yourself, a yoga retreat here offers the perfect opportunity to reset and recharge.

Orion Healing Centre provides an unparalleled retreat experience, combining expert yoga instruction, holistic therapies, and nourishing vegan cuisine in a stunning beachfront setting.

If you’re ready to embark on a life-changing journey, there’s no better place than Koh Phangan. Are you ready to take the first step toward wellness? 🌿✨

German Voters Prepare To Elect a New Parliament. What To Expect on and After Election Day

By

Associated Press

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20 February 2025, 14:43

BERLIN (AP) — German voters go to the polls Sunday to elect a new parliament that will determine how the country is run for the next four years.

Europe’s biggest economy is the 27-nation European Union’s most populous nation and a leading member of NATO, as well as the second-biggest weapons supplier to Ukraine, after the United States, following Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Germany’s next government will be central to Europe’s response to an assertive new U.S. administration.

Here’s a look at what to expect for Sunday and beyond.

What happens on election day?

Polls are due to open at 8 a.m. and close at 6 p.m.. Germans can also vote by postal ballot, but their ballot must arrive by the time polling stations close on election day to be counted.

Exit polls will come and vote-counting will begin immediately after voting ends, and the general picture of the outcome should be clear very quickly. A final official result is expected early Monday.

Who are the contenders?

Four candidates are running to be Germany’s next leader: incumbent Chancellor Olaf Scholz, of the center-left Social Democrats; Friedrich Merz, the candidate of the mainstream conservative Christian Democratic Union party; current Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, of the environmentalist Greens; and Alice Weidel, of the far-right, anti-immigration Alternative for Germany, or AfD.

Preelection polls have put Merz’s Union bloc in the lead with support of about 30%, ahead of AfD, with around 20%. Scholz’s Social Democrats and Habeck’s Greens are further back.

Merz is favored to replace Scholz as chancellor, but it’s not yet clear what governing coalitions will be possible after the election. How easy it is to form a government may depend in part on how many parties are in the new parliament. Opinion polls show three parties hovering around the 5% of the vote needed to win seats.

All mainstream parties say they won’t work with AfD.

AP25050394956991 — FILE – In this Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019 file photo German lawmakers attend a special parliament session at the Reichstag building, host of the German federal parliament, Bundestag, in Berlin, Germany. (AP Photo/Markus Schreiber, File)

What’s up for grabs?

At least 59.2 million people in a country of 84 million are eligible to vote for the new Bundestag, or lower house of parliament. It is the 630-member Bundestag that will elect the next chancellor, Germany’s equivalent of a prime minister.

There are 29 parties on the ballot, but it’s likely that between five and eight of them will get enough votes to win seats in parliament. In most cases, parties must win at least 5% of the vote to get a share of the seats.

What happens after polls close?

Germany’s electoral system rarely gives any party an absolute majority and opinion polls suggest that no party is anywhere near one this time. The country has no tradition of minority governments at national level, which means that two or more parties will most likely form a coalition.

There is no formal referee for the process of forming a new government, and no set time limit. Parties hold exploratory talks to determine who they have most common ground with, and one combination of parties then moves on to formal coalition talks.

Those negotiations typically produce a detailed coalition agreement setting out the new government’s plans. That will typically need approval at least from conventions of the parties involved. Some parties may choose to put it to a ballot of their entire membership.

Once that process is complete, the Bundestag can elect the new chancellor.

What’s at stake?

A strong German government would be important to Europe’s response to the new U.S. administration and to turmoil in Ukraine and elsewhere.

Germany and neighboring France have traditionally been the motor of the EU, but both heavyweights have been consumed by domestic political instability in recent months.

This election is being held seven months earlier than originally planned because Scholz’s three-party coalition collapsed in November as it argued about how to reinvigorate the economy, which has shrunk for the past two years. One of the new government’s most urgent tasks will be to find a coherent response to that problem.

Another challenge will be further reducing irregular migration, which has been a top issue in the campaign.

Merz has said he hopes to form a new government by mid-April if he wins. Scholz’s outgoing government will remain in office on a caretaker basis until the Bundestag elects the new chancellor.

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What happens on election day?

Who are the contenders?

What’s up for grabs?

What happens after polls close?

What’s at stake?

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