http://travelinthailand.makes.news/Travel in Thailand Travel Logistics RSS feedhttp://www.rssboard.org/rss-specificationenTue, 11 Aug 2026 23:57:00 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/11/phuket-reveals-lesser-known-beaches-offering-serene-escapes-beyond-the-bustling-resorts<p>While Phuket is famed for its lively resorts and nightlife, over 30 beaches across the island cater to travellers seeking tranquillity, secluded spots, and family-friendly bays, highlighting a quieter side of Thailand’s famous island.</p><p>Phuket still has a deserved reputation for busy resort stretches and late-night energy, but that is only part of the story. Local beach guides and area round-ups agree that the island has well over 30 beaches and coves, with the quietest options usually found in the far north and at the southern end of the island. For travellers who want softer sand, calmer surroundings and easier days by the sea, the best strategy is to look beyond Patong and towards beaches such as Sai Kaew, Mai Khao, Nai Harn and Kata Noi.</p> <p>In the north, Sai Kaew Beach and Mai Khao Beach are the clearest choice for visitors who value space over scene. Sai Kaew is close to the Sarasin Bridge and remains relatively undeveloped, so it suits long walks and low-key lunches rather than beach bars or watersports. Mai Khao is even more expansive, with a long, open shoreline that feels markedly less crowded than Phuket’s better-known resort areas. It is also the island’s most unusual beach stop: at one end, visitors can watch aircraft descend extremely low over the sand near the airport, although safety barriers and local advice should always be followed.</p> <p>Phuket’s south offers a different kind of appeal. Kata Noi is one of the island’s prettiest compact bays, with pale sand, clear water in fine weather and green hills framing the coastline. Nearby Karon View Point gives visitors a simple way to see Kata Noi, Kata and Karon in one glance, which makes it an easy add-on to a beach day. Further round the coast, Nai Harn is often singled out as a favourite for families and couples because it feels more relaxed than the bigger tourist strips, while still offering enough cafés and shops for a full day out.</p> <p>For visitors who want a bit more activity, Ya Nui and Ao Sane are the best bets for snorkelling when the sea is calm. Ya Nui is small, which gives it a friendly, tucked-away feel, and it is close enough to Cape Promthep to combine the two in one outing. Ao Sane is the more obvious choice for underwater viewing, with a rocky setting that attracts people looking for a quieter snorkelling spot. These smaller coves can fill up quickly, so arriving early is sensible.</p> <p>Other beaches are worth considering depending on the kind of trip you want. Nai Yang offers a more relaxed setting near the airport, with more facilities than Mai Khao and parts of the area within Sirinat National Park. Naithon and Banana Beach are good options for visitors who want a calmer west-coast base without feeling too remote. Bang Tao and Surin lean towards a more upscale resort feel, while Kamala and Karon tend to work well for families who want easier access to restaurants, hotels and shops. Patong, by contrast, is still the island’s most obvious choice for nightlife, watersports and all-day bustle.</p> <p>Timing matters almost as much as location. Travel guides on Phuket consistently note that the best beach conditions usually fall between November and April, when rain is lighter and the sea on the west coast is more often calm. From May to October, monsoon weather can bring stronger waves and dangerous currents, so the red flag on the beach should be taken seriously. Visitors planning to move between several beaches will find a scooter the most flexible option, though it is best left to confident riders only; otherwise, a car or ride-hailing app is the safer choice. For most travellers, the simplest summary is this: choose Mai Khao or Sai Kaew for peace, Nai Harn or Kata Noi for a classic beach day, and Ya Nui or Ao Sane if snorkelling is high on the list.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://coconut-sports.de/asien/thailand/schoenste-straende-auf-phuket/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://www.phuketstaypro.com/en/blog/best-beaches-phuket-area-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://bestphuketguide.com/blog/best-beaches-phuket-local-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.phuketstaypro.com/en/guide/beaches" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://phuketexpatguide.com/blog/phuket-beaches-guide-expats/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://bestphuketguide.com/blog/best-beaches-phuket-local-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.phuketstaypro.com/en/guide/beaches" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://www.phuketstaypro.com/en/blog/best-beaches-phuket-area-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://welovephuket.com/beaches/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.andatelhotel.com/articles/best-beaches-phuket-guide.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://welovephuket.com/beaches/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://bestphuketguide.com/blog/best-beaches-phuket-local-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.andatelhotel.com/articles/best-beaches-phuket-guide.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 5: ^{<a href="https://www.phuketstaypro.com/en/blog/best-beaches-phuket-area-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://welovephuket.com/beaches/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.phuketstaypro.com/en/guide/beaches" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.andatelhotel.com/articles/best-beaches-phuket-guide.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 6: ^{<a href="https://phuketexpatguide.com/blog/phuket-beaches-guide-expats/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://bestphuketguide.com/blog/best-beaches-phuket-local-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.phuketstaypro.com/en/guide/beaches" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a7b54a6f2b752482c7e7fc4Tue, 11 Aug 2026 19:34:21 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/11/koh-jums-relaxed-transport-options-enhance-its-slow-paced-charm<p>Koh Jum offers travellers a tranquil escape with simple and flexible transport choices, from scooter rentals to ferry routes, perfectly complementing its laid-back vibe and diverse local communities.</p><p>Koh Jum is one of southern Thailand’s quieter islands, and getting around is part of its appeal. For most visitors, the simplest option is to hire a scooter through a hotel or guesthouse, with local reports putting daily rates at around 300 baht. The roads are generally calm and not especially hilly, which means you do not need a large bike to explore comfortably. Main routes are usually in good condition, although some side roads are unpaved, so it is wise to check the surface if you are planning to venture away from the main stretches.</p> <p>If you would rather not ride yourself, local accommodation can often arrange a scooter taxi with a sidecar and canopy. These are a familiar sight on the island and can be a practical choice for families or travellers carrying bags. According to other travel guides, tuk-tuks and small pickup-style transfers are also available in some parts of Koh Jum, and many hotels will collect guests from the pier, which removes much of the hassle on arrival.</p> <p>Reaching the island is fairly straightforward, though connections vary by season. The most common route is by public ferry from Laem Kruat Pier in Krabi, with several departures a day, a journey time of about an hour, and fares often around 100 baht. Travellers coming from Ao Nang can usually take a speedboat or longtail boat directly to Koh Jum in roughly 45 minutes to an hour, while services also run from Koh Lanta, taking about 30 to 45 minutes. Ferry booking platforms also list routes from places such as Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands, particularly useful for visitors stitching Koh Jum into a longer island itinerary.</p> <p>For travellers who prefer to organise transport in advance, booking platforms such as 12Go can help compare boats, taxis, buses and minivans in one place. That can be especially useful in the dry season, when more routes are available, or if you are arriving from further afield and want to avoid arranging separate legs yourself. It is also worth checking with your hotel before you travel, as some properties can coordinate pier transfers or onward local transport for you.</p> <p>The broader appeal of Koh Jum lies in its relaxed pace. Travel guides describe an island where local Muslim and Buddhist communities live side by side, and where visitors tend to spend more time moving slowly between beaches, villages and small restaurants than racing from one attraction to the next. For most holidaymakers, that means the practical question is not how to see as much as possible, but how to keep travel simple enough to enjoy the island’s calm.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://thailandmagazine.com/koh-jum/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://thailandmagazine.com/koh-jum/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.adventuresofjellie.com/thailand/koh-jum" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://www.thailandee.com/en/cities/to-go-leave-koh-jum" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailandee.com/villes/koh-jum" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://www.netferry.com/ferries/from/koh-jum" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailandee.com/en/cities/to-go-leave-koh-jum" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://www.netferry.com/ferries/from/koh-jum" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailandee.com/en/cities/to-go-leave-koh-jum" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>} - Paragraph 5: ^{<a href="https://thailandmagazine.com/koh-jum/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a7b54a6f2b752482c7e7fc2Tue, 11 Aug 2026 17:04:56 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/11/thailand-tailoring-travel-plans-to-seasonal-weather-patterns-for-a-better-experience<p>Travellers are encouraged to match their Thailand itinerary with regional seasons to avoid weather disruptions and enhance their visit, whether exploring the north, beaches, or cultural sites.</p><p>Thailand rewards travellers who match the country to the season, rather than treating it as one destination with one climate. That matters because the north, the Gulf islands and the Andaman coast all follow different weather patterns, and getting that wrong can mean ferry cancellations, heavy rain or smog at exactly the wrong moment. For most visitors, the smartest approach is simple: choose one region, or at most two, and stay long enough to enjoy it properly.</p> <p>If you are drawn to culture, cooler air and mountain scenery, start in the north. Chiang Mai remains the region’s natural base, with its old city, temples, café scene and easy access to day trips and longer loops into the hills. Chiang Rai, Pai and the Golden Triangle all add variety, while trekking, rafting and other outdoor activities make the north especially appealing to travellers who want more than beaches. It is also one of the best parts of the country for longer stays and digital nomads. The main drawback is air quality from late February to April, when agricultural burning can dull visibility and make outdoor time less pleasant.</p> <p>For a slower, more under-visited Thailand, the north-east is still one of the country’s most rewarding choices. Isaan is less built around foreign tourism than the better-known coasts, which is part of its appeal: the food tastes more local, the pace is gentler and the attractions feel less polished but more authentic. Visitors who make the effort can combine Khmer-era ruins, riverside towns and places such as Ubon Ratchathani, where Pha Taem National Park and Sam Phan Bok offer scenery far from the usual beach itinerary. It is a region that suits travellers willing to move slowly.</p> <p>Bangkok and the central plains remain the easiest place to begin for first-time visitors. The capital gives you temples, street food, river transport and nightlife in one place, and it connects neatly to Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi and other historic sites. In practical terms, it is the best landing point for a short trip: spend a few days getting over the journey, then decide whether to add culture, beaches or both. For a first visit, three days in Bangkok is a realistic minimum, and a day trip is often enough to give you a feel for the wider central region.</p> <p>The east coast is best if you want a mix of beach time and easy logistics. Pattaya is still strongly associated with nightlife, but it now also draws families and visitors looking for water sports and more resort-style stays. Beyond that, Koh Chang, Koh Mak, Koh Kood and Koh Samet offer a more relaxed island experience, with Koh Chang in particular suited to a longer stay if you want to move between beaches and forested inland areas. This side of Thailand works well for travellers who want a coastal break without the more intense pace of the southern party islands.</p> <p>If your ideal trip is more about sea views, island hopping and a slightly more polished resort feel, the choice between the Gulf and the Andaman coast should be made around your travel dates. The Gulf coast, including Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and Hua Hin, is generally the better bet from late spring into summer, when the Andaman side is wetter. The Andaman coast, including Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi and Khao Lak, is at its best from November to April, when seas are calmer and island trips are easier. Phuket also has far more to offer than its party reputation suggests, with old Sino-Portuguese streets, Peranakan heritage and a serious Muay Thai training scene.</p> <p>Seasonality is the key to planning. The Andaman coast usually gets the heaviest rain from around mid-May to mid-October, while the Gulf islands tend to see their wettest weather later in the year. In the north and centre, the most comfortable months are usually from November to February, before temperatures climb and the rains arrive. That makes winter the safest all-round window for a first trip, but it is not the only good one. The main trick is to let the coast you pick match the month you travel, rather than assuming Thailand is uniformly sunny.</p> <p>For travellers in 2026, there are a few practical rules worth knowing before booking. Most major passport holders now receive 30 days visa-free on arrival, rather than the 60 days that previously applied, and everyone must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online before arrival. Cannabis has also been tightened up again, so it is no longer something to treat casually. Add those rules to the usual basics: check ferry times, avoid overloading a short itinerary, and leave room for at least one slow day so the trip does not become a rush between airports and piers.</p> <p>The best starting point, then, depends on what you want most. For culture and cooler weather, begin in Chiang Mai. For an easy first trip, start in Bangkok and add one other region. For beaches, choose the Gulf or the Andaman side according to the season. Thailand is generous to travellers, but it works best when you plan around its rhythm rather than forcing everything into one quick loop.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/travel/thailand-travel/where-to-start-your-thailand-trip-by-region-and-season" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://www.roughguides.com/thailand/north/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailand.go.th/public/useful-information-detail/009_142" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.sunroulette.com/articles/thailand-monsoon-explained" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://www.roughguides.com/thailand/north/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/thailand/northern-thailand" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailandknowledge.com/destinations/north-thailand" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.travelfish.org/region/thailand/northern_thailand" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://www.thailand.go.th/public/useful-information-detail/009_142" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.sunroulette.com/articles/thailand-monsoon-explained" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/travel/thailand-travel/where-to-start-your-thailand-trip-by-region-and-season" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailand.go.th/public/useful-information-detail/009_142" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 5: ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/travel/thailand-travel/where-to-start-your-thailand-trip-by-region-and-season" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>} - Paragraph 6: ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/travel/thailand-travel/where-to-start-your-thailand-trip-by-region-and-season" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.sunroulette.com/articles/thailand-monsoon-explained" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 7: ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/travel/thailand-travel/where-to-start-your-thailand-trip-by-region-and-season" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailand.go.th/public/useful-information-detail/009_142" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 8: ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/travel/thailand-travel/where-to-start-your-thailand-trip-by-region-and-season" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.roughguides.com/thailand/north/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.sunroulette.com/articles/thailand-monsoon-explained" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a7ad34127c385e41ba9905dTue, 11 Aug 2026 17:02:54 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/11/thailand-issues-flood-warnings-as-heavy-rains-threaten-northern-provinces<p>Officials monitor flood risk in 12 northern provinces including Chiang Mai amid heavy monsoon rains expected to disrupt travel and local communities.</p><p>Travellers heading to northern and north-eastern Thailand should keep a close eye on weather updates this week, as officials monitor flood risk in 12 provinces including Chiang Mai. The Royal Irrigation Department said teams are on alert for flash floods, forest runoff and rising waterways after several days of heavy rain. For visitors, the main concern is disruption on rural roads, hillside routes and areas close to rivers and streams, particularly around Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son and Nan.</p> <p>The weather pattern is being driven by a monsoon trough over the upper north and northern Laos, alongside a fairly strong south-west monsoon affecting the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand. The Thai Meteorological Department says this set-up could bring heavy to very heavy rain across the north and north-east from August 10 to 16, with thunderstorms also expected in parts of the central, eastern and southern regions. Similar seasonal warnings have been issued in recent years when the monsoon strengthens, underlining how quickly conditions can change during the rainy season.</p> <p>The 12 provinces under special watch are Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son, Nan, Mukdahan, Saraburi, Roi Et, Yasothon, Nakhon Phanom, Udon Thani, Phitsanulok and Amnat Charoen. The heaviest rain in the previous 24 hours was reported in Nan and nearby areas, including more than 111 millimetres in Nam Muap subdistrict. Officials said low-lying communities, hillsides and places with a history of flooding face the greatest risk.</p> <p>Water storage levels suggest there is still room in many reservoirs, but river conditions are being watched closely. In the Chao Phraya basin, flows at the C.2 monitoring point in Nakhon Sawan remained below the riverbank, and discharge through Chao Phraya Dam was being managed downstream. That may sound reassuring, but for travellers it still means sudden local flooding can affect transport links, detours and access to attractions, especially outside major cities.</p> <p>In practical terms, anyone in the affected areas should allow extra time for journeys, avoid driving through flooded sections and move quickly if local authorities issue warnings. Small boats in the upper Andaman Sea have been advised to stay ashore during rough weather, and travellers on coastal or river trips should check conditions before setting out. The safest approach in the coming days is to build flexibility into plans, keep luggage and valuables easy to move, and follow official advisories as rain continues.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/weather/chiang-mai-12-provinces-heavy-rain-flood-risk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40040803" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40053493" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40030243" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40053789" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40054090" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/weather/chiang-mai-12-provinces-heavy-rain-flood-risk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40040803" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40054090" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/weather/chiang-mai-12-provinces-heavy-rain-flood-risk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40053493" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0301479723020649" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 5: ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/weather/chiang-mai-12-provinces-heavy-rain-flood-risk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40030243" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40053789" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a7b05a674206a639f81e6bbTue, 11 Aug 2026 12:47:34 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/11/phukets-smart-bus-offers-affordable-beach-access-but-requires-careful-timing-and-route-checks<p>The Phuket Smart Bus provides a low-cost option for travelers heading to the island’s west-coast beaches, though its reliability depends on timing, route, and proximity to accommodation. With costs at just 100 baht and various payment options, it’s ideal for daylight arrivals and light luggage, but travellers should remain flexible and verify schedules to ensure a smooth transfer.</p><p>For travellers heading from Phuket International Airport to one of the island’s west-coast beaches, the Phuket Smart Bus can be a simple, budget-friendly option, but only if your hotel sits close to the route and you are not arriving too late in the day. The service runs down the coast towards Bang Tao, Surin, Kamala, Patong, Karon, Kata and on to Rawai, making it useful for beach stays where a short transfer from the stop is all that is needed. </p> <p>The practical test is whether the bus stop and your hotel are genuinely close enough to make the journey worthwhile. Phuket’s west-coast road can be slow, and the trip to Patong is often around 90 minutes, while Karon and Kata can take closer to two hours because of the number of stops. That makes the Smart Bus better suited to daylight arrivals and lighter luggage than to late-night landings or tight onward plans. </p> <p>Most guides place the airport boarding point at the departures level near Exit 3, opposite Café Amazon, although travellers should check the live stop information before setting off. The operator’s timetable can change, and Phuket’s traffic can make published times less reliable than a taxi or pre-booked transfer if you need to be somewhere at a fixed hour. </p> <p>On price, the sources are broadly consistent that the Smart Bus is one of the cheapest ways to reach the west coast, with a flat fare of 100 baht per ride. Payment methods may include cash, QR code, contactless card or a Rabbit Card, so it is worth checking the current arrangement before you travel rather than assuming a single payment method will always be accepted. </p> <p>For many visitors, the bus makes the most sense as part of a mixed transfer rather than a door-to-door solution. If your hotel is inland, uphill or far from the nearest stop, a short feeder taxi after the bus may still leave you ahead on cost while avoiding a long walk in heat or rain. That is especially useful for travellers with heavy bags, children or mobility concerns. </p> <p>The safest approach is to treat the Smart Bus as a live service, not a fixed promise. Check the operator timetable on the day you travel, confirm the stop nearest your hotel, and keep a fallback option in case the last departure has gone or the schedule has shifted. For the right arrival and the right beach, it can be an easy, inexpensive start to a Phuket stay. </p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://littlebigreddot.com/phuket-smart-bus-airport-west-coast-guide/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://phuket-hkt-international-airport.com/en/ways/smartbus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://phuket-tropic-tours.com/blog/smart-bus-in-phuket" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://phuket-hkt-international-airport.com/en/ways/smartbus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.phuket101.net/how-to-ride-phuket-bus/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://phuketexpatguide.com/blog/phuket-smart-bus-route/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://phuket-hkt-international-airport.com/en/ways/smartbus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.phuket101.net/how-to-ride-phuket-bus/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.phuket-airport.com/transport.php" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://phuket-hkt-international-airport.com/en/ways/smartbus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://phuket-tropic-tours.com/blog/smart-bus-in-phuket" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://phuketexpatguide.com/blog/phuket-smart-bus-route/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 5: ^{<a href="https://phuket-hkt-international-airport.com/en/ways/smartbus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://phuket-tropic-tours.com/blog/smart-bus-in-phuket" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.phuket101.net/how-to-ride-phuket-bus/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>} - Paragraph 6: ^{<a href="https://phuket-hkt-international-airport.com/en/ways/smartbus" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.phuket101.net/how-to-ride-phuket-bus/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.phuket-airport.com/transport.php" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a7a5fd37f00d0e609dd446aTue, 11 Aug 2026 06:54:42 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/11/streamlining-your-first-thai-airport-arrival-essential-tips-for-smooth-entry<p>First-time travellers to Thailand can simplify their airport experience by preparing key documents, understanding biometric procedures, and following recommended protocols to ensure a hassle-free entry process.</p><p>For many first-time travellers, arriving in Thailand is less about the holiday and more about getting through the airport without a hitch. The good news, according to several recent travel guides, is that the process is usually straightforward if you arrive with the right paperwork, know where to queue and have your documents ready before you reach the desk. That matters whether you land at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket or another major airport.</p> <p>The most important item is still your passport, and it needs to be in good condition with at least six months’ validity remaining. Travel guides also stress that visitors should have their return or onward ticket, hotel booking and any visa or arrival confirmation prepared before they reach immigration. Several guides now also highlight Thailand’s Digital Arrival Card, with travellers advised to complete it before departure and keep the QR code or confirmation readily available on their phone or printed out.</p> <p>At the airport, the routine is familiar: follow the signs to immigration, join the correct queue for your passport type and present your passport alongside the required arrival documents. Guides on Thailand’s airport arrival process note that biometric checks are part of the procedure, after which travellers move on to baggage claim and customs. For visitors arriving in Bangkok, the same advice applies at both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, where clear signage and a prepared document pack can save considerable time.</p> <p>What you may be asked at the counter is usually simple. Officers can ask why you are visiting, how long you will stay, where you are staying and whether you have a return ticket. Travel writers covering Thailand immigration say short, honest answers are best. It is also sensible to carry proof of sufficient funds, such as cash, bank cards or a recent statement, even if you are not asked to show it. A polite, calm approach helps, as does avoiding phone use, loud conversation or photography in restricted areas.</p> <p>Travellers should also be careful not to bring restricted goods or medicines without the proper paperwork, because customs checks can cause delays. Once your passport is stamped, it is worth checking that the entry date and permitted stay are correct before leaving the desk. Airport arrivals can be busier at peak times, particularly in the morning, in the evening and during holiday periods, so building in extra time is wise. For anyone booking ahead, recent travel guides also suggest comparing Thailand tour packages and flights early, since that can make the overall trip smoother and more economical.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://drifttravel.com/thailand-airport-immigration-tips-a-complete-guide-for-first-time-indian-travelers/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://thedestinationholidays.com/post/updated-thailand-airport-immigration-process/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.hellothailandvisa.com/articles/airports-in-thailand" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://thedestinationholidays.com/post/updated-thailand-airport-immigration-process/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://thaidigitalcard.com/en/guides/airport-arrival" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://visualthailand.com/arrival-immigration-suvarnabhumi/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://thaidigitalcard.com/en/guides/airport-arrival" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailand-tour.in/blog/thailand-arrival-at-bangkok-airport-bkk-2026-immigration-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailandwithmonchai.com/blogs/thailand-airport-arrival-process-2025-complete-immigration-and-tdac-guide-for-first-time-travelers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://thedestinationholidays.com/post/updated-thailand-airport-immigration-process/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.hellothailandvisa.com/articles/airports-in-thailand" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailandwithmonchai.com/blogs/thailand-airport-arrival-process-2025-complete-immigration-and-tdac-guide-for-first-time-travelers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 5: ^{<a href="https://thedestinationholidays.com/post/updated-thailand-airport-immigration-process/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailand-tour.in/blog/thailand-arrival-at-bangkok-airport-bkk-2026-immigration-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thailandwithmonchai.com/blogs/thailand-airport-arrival-process-2025-complete-immigration-and-tdac-guide-for-first-time-travelers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a7a4a66edc6926e9bf8cfa9Tue, 11 Aug 2026 06:53:47 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/10/flood-risk-prompts-travellers-in-nakhon-phanom-to-stay-alert-as-mekong-rises<p>As the Mekong River continues to climb in Nakhon Phanom, authorities urge visitors to remain flexible with plans amid potential flooding, with safety measures and official alerts guiding cautious access to riverside attractions.</p><p>Travellers heading to Nakhon Phanom in north-eastern Thailand are being urged to keep plans flexible as the Mekong River continues to rise and authorities warn that low-lying riverside areas could face flooding in the coming days. The province has not been shut to visitors, but the most vulnerable districts along the river are under close watch, and conditions can change quickly after heavy rain.</p> <p>According to local authorities, the districts most exposed are Mueang Nakhon Phanom, Tha Uthen, That Phanom and Ban Phaeng. Officials said the river level had climbed to 10.77 metres, still below the 12-metre critical point but close enough to prompt precautionary measures. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation issued its warning on 10 August, while the provincial governor urged residents and visitors alike to stay alert.</p> <p>The concern is not just the river itself but the rainfall feeding it. Nakhon Phanom recorded 222.20 millimetres of rain on 9 August, and municipal officials said brief flooding had already appeared in some low-lying areas before drainage pumps brought water levels back down. Reuters-style reporting from the wider region has also noted that five north-eastern provinces are under flood warnings as more Mekong water flows downstream, with forecasters tracking another weather system that could add fresh rain.</p> <p>For visitors, the practical message is simple: riverside sightseeing should be approached with caution, especially during periods of intense rain or after dark. Roads may remain open, but access to some waterfront areas, local markets and temples can be disrupted without much notice. Travellers already in the province should check with hotels or guesthouses before setting out, and avoid assuming that conditions in higher parts of the city are the same as those near the Mekong.</p> <p>Authorities have widened their emergency messaging, using mobile network Cell Broadcast alerts as well as local notices to warn people in at-risk communities. Nakhon Phanom Municipality has also prepared sandbag distribution for residents, while officials have asked people to move valuables and vehicles to higher ground if they live near the river. At the same time, they have warned against sharing fake AI-generated flood images, a reminder that visitors should rely on official updates rather than social media posts when deciding whether to travel.</p> <p>For tourists, the best approach is to keep the trip, but not the timetable. Nakhon Phanom remains an attractive stop for travellers interested in Mekong views, temples and local culture, yet the next few days could bring sudden changes in access and atmosphere. If you are planning to cross districts or spend time by the water, check the latest local advice before you go and be ready to alter your route.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/lilsbtdn0590/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://thaitimes.com/mekong-flood-alert-issued-for-northeastern-thailand" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.inkl.com/news/overflow-alert-as-mekong-keeps-rising" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/lilsbtdn0590/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://thai.news/news/thailand/mekong-river-flood-alert-in-nakhon-phanom-authorities-brace-for-rising-waters" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.mrcmekong.org/media-releases/water-levels-reach-alarm-stage-at-selected-cities-along-the-lower-mekong-mainstream/2024/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://thaitimes.com/mekong-flood-alert-issued-for-northeastern-thailand" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://visualthailand.com/flash-flood-warnings/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://ollekebolleke.info/de-mekong-rivier-in-thailand-blijft-stijgen-de-autoriteiten-in-de-provincie-nakhon-phanom-houden-regio-scherp-in-de-gaten/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/lilsbtdn0590/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.inkl.com/news/overflow-alert-as-mekong-keeps-rising" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.mrcmekong.org/media-releases/water-levels-reach-alarm-stage-at-selected-cities-along-the-lower-mekong-mainstream/2024/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 5: ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/lilsbtdn0590/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://thaitimes.com/mekong-flood-alert-issued-for-northeastern-thailand" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>} - Paragraph 6: ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/lilsbtdn0590/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://thai.news/news/thailand/mekong-river-flood-alert-in-nakhon-phanom-authorities-brace-for-rising-waters" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.inkl.com/news/overflow-alert-as-mekong-keeps-rising" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a7a02306f2eac9b4120e786Mon, 10 Aug 2026 17:10:06 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/10/typhoon-dolphin-causes-unprecedented-flight-cancellations-between-thailand-and-china-as-storms-intensify<p>Severe weather from Typhoon Dolphin has led to significant cancellations and widespread disruption across China and Thailand, affecting thousands of travellers and highlighting the storm’s growing impact on regional transport and tourism.</p><p>Typhoon Dolphin has thrown travel between Thailand and eastern China into disarray, with Thai Airways cancelling its Bangkok–Shanghai services on 10 August as severe weather continued to batter the region. The route cuts through one of Asia’s busiest travel corridors, affecting holidaymakers, business travellers and passengers using Shanghai as a connecting hub.</p> <p>According to the Associated Press, the storm made landfall in Taizhou, Zhejiang province, with winds of about 151 kph, after which Shanghai shut down more than 1,300 flights across its two main airports, Pudong and Hongqiao. AP also reported that authorities moved hundreds of thousands of people out of harm’s way before the worst of the weather arrived, underscoring the scale of the disruption.</p> <p>For travellers, the practical impact is straightforward but significant: plans can change quickly, even if a flight is only part of a longer journey. Thai Airways said the cancelled services were TG662 from Bangkok to Shanghai and TG663 in the opposite direction. Media reports from Shanghai suggest the storm also disrupted domestic and regional operations far beyond the Thailand route, increasing the chance of missed connections, rebookings and overnight delays.</p> <p>The wider storm has also affected tourist sites, schools and local transport in eastern China, according to AP, while Spanish newspaper El País reported that rainfall in Shanghai reached record levels in some areas as the system weakened but kept dumping heavy rain inland. For visitors heading to China from Thailand, the safest approach is to check flight status before leaving for the airport, allow extra time for changes and keep a close eye on airline advisories until conditions improve.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/n8n3veca1550/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d40f4d49b0d89935366f360f1f13afd8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.khaosodenglish.com/tech/2026/07/11/thai-airways-cancels-flights-due-to-typhoon-bavi/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d40f4d49b0d89935366f360f1f13afd8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6534c6d39b7119e19e4e901c0e3aa999" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/n8n3veca1550/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d40f4d49b0d89935366f360f1f13afd8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.khaosodenglish.com/tech/2026/07/11/thai-airways-cancels-flights-due-to-typhoon-bavi/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.plataformamedia.com/en/2026/07/13/typhoon-bavi-china-flight-cancellations-airports/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d40f4d49b0d89935366f360f1f13afd8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://elpais.com/internacional/2026-08-10/el-tifon-dolphin-obliga-a-evacuar-a-mas-de-un-millon-de-personas-en-china.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a79b9f47f00d0e609dd3632Mon, 10 Aug 2026 11:47:50 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/10/thailand-tightens-airline-rules-on-power-banks-emphasising-safety-and-compliance-for-travellers<p>Travellers heading to or within Thailand must adhere to strict guidelines for carrying power banks, including size limits, packaging, and usage rules during flights, to ensure safety and compliance.</p><p>Thailand’s rules on power banks are straightforward enough for travellers, but they are strict. If you are flying to, from or within the country, the practical rule of thumb is simple: keep power banks in your cabin bag or on your person, carry no more than two, and do not use or charge them during the flight. Under the guidance cited by Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority, units up to 100Wh may be carried within that two-item limit, while anything above 100Wh and up to 160Wh needs airline approval. Anything larger should not be packed in passenger baggage at all. For visitors, the key is to check the watt-hour marking before you leave home, because that is what decides whether a battery is allowed. If only mAh and voltage are shown, the watt-hour figure can be worked out by multiplying mAh by voltage and dividing by 1,000.</p> <p>Travellers should also be careful not to confuse charging ports with battery count: a multi-port pack is still one power bank, while three separate units count as three. The same goes for where you pack them. Power banks are not meant for checked luggage, and if your cabin bag is taken at the gate, the batteries need to be removed first. Officials also advise protecting the terminals with the original packaging, a pouch or another barrier to reduce the risk of short circuits, and not carrying swollen, damaged or recalled units. In practical terms, that means keeping them easy to reach before screening and easy to hand over if a gate check becomes necessary.</p> <p>The onboard restriction matters too. Thailand’s aviation guidance says passengers should not recharge a device from a power bank during the flight, nor charge the power bank itself from aircraft power. For consumers, that means treating it as a backup battery for use before boarding and after landing, not something to rely on in the air. Airlines may add their own operating conditions, especially for the 101Wh to 160Wh bracket, so approval should be obtained before check-in if your battery falls into that range. A 20,000mAh pack at 3.7V, for example, works out at about 74Wh and would normally sit below the 100Wh ceiling, but it still counts towards the two-unit limit.</p> <p>For anyone packing for Thailand, the safest approach is to check the label, count the batteries, keep them in cabin baggage, and remove them before any gate check. If the rule looks close, verify it with the airline as well as the official aviation guidance, because the live boarding decision will be made by the carrier or airport staff applying the current rule.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://littlebigreddot.com/thailand-power-bank-flight-rules-2026/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://littlebigreddot.com/thailand-power-bank-flight-rules-2026/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://littlebigreddot.com/thailand-power-bank-flight-rules-2026/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://littlebigreddot.com/thailand-power-bank-flight-rules-2026/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://littlebigreddot.com/thailand-power-bank-flight-rules-2026/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a77cb1c2fde92825a179c70Mon, 10 Aug 2026 11:44:04 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/10/krabis-new-devils-mouth-cave-elevates-thailands-adventure-tourism-appeal<p>A striking sea cave called ‘Devil’s Mouth’ off Krabi’s coast is being promoted as a fresh visual highlight, further positioning Thailand’s southern province as a hub for active, experience-led travel and drawing increased attention from international visitors, especially from the US.</p><p>A striking sea cave and cliff opening off Krabi’s coast is being packaged by local operators as the “Devil’s Mouth”, giving one of Thailand’s best-known adventure provinces a fresh visual hook. The attraction sits within the same limestone seascape that has long made Krabi popular with climbers, kayakers and island-hoppers, especially around Railay and Phra Nang, where steep rock faces rise straight from the Andaman Sea.</p> <p>For visitors, the appeal is as much practical as scenic. Operators are folding the site into existing day trips from Ao Nang and Railay, which means it can be added to a beach or island itinerary without complicated extra planning. That fits Krabi’s established appeal: Railay remains a major draw, Ao Nang is the main base for hotels and tour desks, and nearby routes open up easy access to Koh Phi Phi, the Four Islands and quieter stretches such as Koh Lanta.</p> <p>The timing also suits Thailand’s wider tourism push. Government and industry messaging has shifted towards higher-value, experience-led travel rather than simple volume, and Krabi is being positioned as a place for active, nature-based holidays. Official tourism material still highlights the province’s limestone cliffs, beaches and islands, while newer marketing leans more heavily on wellness, climbing, kayaking and small-group excursions.</p> <p>That matters for long-haul travellers, particularly Americans, whom Thailand sees as an increasingly important market. The country’s tourism authorities have been building international partnerships and promoting smoother digital spending and better-targeted marketing, while bilateral ties with the United States have been framed partly through tourism and business links. For holidaymakers, the result is likely to be more packages aimed at longer stays and higher-spending visitors, especially those mixing Bangkok with southern beach destinations.</p> <p>Krabi’s growing profile also brings familiar caveats. As more people seek out the Devil’s Mouth and similar coastal landmarks, visitors should expect the need for sensible timing, cautious boat transfers and close attention to weather and sea conditions. Advice for Thailand consistently stresses following local guidance, which is especially relevant around cliffs, narrow passages and changing tides.</p> <p>For travellers planning a trip, the simplest takeaway is that Krabi is becoming more than a beach stop. It is leaning harder into adventure and scenery, and the Devil’s Mouth looks set to join the province’s established icons as a reason to stay longer, book guided activities and explore beyond the usual island circuit.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://www.thetraveler.org/krabis-devils-mouth-lures-tourists-as-thailand-deepens-us-ties/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://www.visitthailandtoday.com/destinations/krabi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://travelthailand.org/destinations/krabi/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.kayak.com/Krabi.44862.guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://www.krabi-tourism.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.visitthailandtoday.com/destinations/krabi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://travelthailand.org/destinations/krabi/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://www.thailand.go.th/public/visit-thailand-detail/---150000-" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.krabi-tourism.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40064804" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.thetraveler.org/krabis-devils-mouth-lures-tourists-as-thailand-deepens-us-ties/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>} - Paragraph 5: ^{<a href="https://www.thetraveler.org/krabis-devils-mouth-lures-tourists-as-thailand-deepens-us-ties/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>} - Paragraph 6: ^{<a href="https://www.thetraveler.org/krabis-devils-mouth-lures-tourists-as-thailand-deepens-us-ties/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.visitthailandtoday.com/destinations/krabi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://travelthailand.org/destinations/krabi/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a77cb1c2fde92825a179c6eMon, 10 Aug 2026 11:42:56 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/10/northern-thailand-s-chiang-rai-emerges-as-a-budget-friendly-long-term-haven-for-retirees<p>Chiang Rai, Thailand, is gaining attention as an affordable and manageable destination for long-term travellers seeking a slower pace, cultural appeal, and budget-friendly living, with costs significantly below Western standards.</p><p>For travellers thinking beyond a short holiday, northern Thailand is emerging as one of Asia’s more practical places to settle for longer. The appeal is straightforward: a lower day-to-day budget, a slower pace, and enough comfort to make life easy without the expense of bigger, better-known retirement centres. Investopedia’s round-up points to Chiang Rai as a particularly appealing choice for people who want Thailand without the intensity of Bangkok or the crowds of Chiang Mai.</p> <p>Chiang Rai suits visitors who value calm over convenience in the metropolitan sense. The city is smaller, cooler and generally quieter than many other Thai destinations, with lighter traffic and easier access to nature, from hot springs to waterfalls and hiking routes. Its best-known landmark, Wat Rong Khun, has also helped turn it into a cultural stop as well as a retirement option. The broader point for long-stay visitors is that daily life can feel more manageable here than in Thailand’s busier tourist zones.</p> <p>Money remains the main attraction. Investopedia says a comfortable lifestyle in Chiang Rai can be had for around $600 a month, which is far below what many travellers would pay in popular Western retirement destinations. That makes it easier to budget for housing, meals out and local transport without feeling squeezed. A newer 2025 cost-of-living overview of Penang, Malaysia, published by RetireSea, makes a similar case for Asia’s budget-friendly appeal, reinforcing the idea that the region’s mid-sized cities can deliver good value alongside decent amenities.</p> <p>For anyone considering a longer stay, the practical checks matter as much as the lifestyle pitch. Visa rules can change, healthcare access varies by location, and the rainy season can be a bigger adjustment than many first-time visitors expect. Thailand’s appeal lies in how easily it can combine affordability with a liveable rhythm, but the best fit is usually the place that matches a traveller’s tolerance for heat, pace and distance from major medical and transport hubs.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/4-best-asian-destinations-for-comfortable-budget-friendly-retirement-living-abroad-12027938" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://www.retiresea.com/blog/cost-of-living-penang-2025.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://www.retiresea.com/blog/cost-of-living-penang-2025.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://www.retiresea.com/blog/cost-of-living-penang-2025.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.retiresea.com/blog/cost-of-living-penang-2025.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://www.retiresea.com/blog/cost-of-living-penang-2025.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a78b08dedc6926e9bf8ab0fMon, 10 Aug 2026 11:42:48 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/10/bangkoks-rattanakosin-heritage-trail-transforms-old-quarter-into-immersive-cultural-journey<p>Thailand unveils a new heritage trail in Bangkok’s historic Rattanakosin district, offering visitors an immersive experience of temples, museums, and traditional performances, enhancing the city’s cultural appeal beyond shopping and nightlife.</p><p>Bangkok’s old quarter is being positioned as a more immersive draw for visitors this month, as Thailand rolls out a new Rattanakosin Heritage Trail linking temples, museums, galleries and performance spaces in the city’s historic core. The initiative, introduced for the Mother’s Day holiday on 12 August, is meant to give travellers an easier way to explore the area’s royal, artistic and religious landmarks in one continuous visit.</p> <p>Rattanakosin, established in 1782 as Bangkok’s original royal district, remains the city’s historic heart and one of the best places for first-time visitors who want more than shopping and nightlife. Travel guides to the area note that it contains the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho and the Bangkok National Museum, while also offering a glimpse of canals, old shophouses and riverside life that still shape the neighbourhood’s character.</p> <p>According to the Fine Arts Department, the new route begins near Sanam Luang at the former Fine Arts Department building and continues through the Silpa Bhirasri Memorial National Museum, the Thaworn Watthu Building, better known as the Red Building, the Bangkok National Museum, the National Theatre, the National Gallery on Chao Fa Road and Wat Bowonsathan Sutthawat. For visitors, the appeal is practical as much as cultural: the trail turns a cluster of separate attractions into a walkable heritage itinerary.</p> <p>A major draw is a special exhibition at the Bangkok National Museum devoted to Thai textiles. The display brings together 111 selected pieces from museum collections and storage across Bangkok and the provinces, and traces weaving traditions through five themes, including tools, techniques, ceremonial dress and the passing on of craft across generations. It will run from 12 August to 4 October 2026 at the Issaravinitchai Throne Hall, giving travellers an extended window to fit it into a Bangkok trip.</p> <p>The National Theatre programme adds another layer, with traditional music, dance and drama staged to complement the trail. Organisers have scheduled an extra performance for 23 August at 2pm after an enthusiastic response, and online reservations are due to open on 11 August. For visitors, the broader message is simple: Bangkok is being presented not only as a city to pass through, but as a destination where history can be experienced directly, from riverfront heritage to national collections and live performance.</p> <p>The heritage push follows other recent efforts to highlight Rattanakosin’s cultural identity. Nation Thailand reported that the “River of Life” festival in late July celebrated the area’s waterways with boat races, performances, markets and boat alms-giving ceremonies across several historic sites, underlining how the old city is increasingly being marketed as a living cultural district rather than a static museum piece.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/k35j1h4mnunm/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/news/tourism/40068982" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://whybangkok.com/areas/rattanakosin/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://whybangkok.com/areas/rattanakosin/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.khaosanroad.com/articles/rattanakosin-island-complete-guide" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bangkoktourismguide.com/attractions/rattanakosin-old-city-bangkok.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/k35j1h4mnunm/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://whybangkok.com/areas/rattanakosin/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/k35j1h4mnunm/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>} - Paragraph 5: ^{<a href="https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/k35j1h4mnunm/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/news/tourism/40068982" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a780482f2b752482c7e341aMon, 10 Aug 2026 11:42:39 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/10/thailand-issues-weather-warning-as-monsoon-brings-heavy-rain-and-rough-seas<p>Travelers in Thailand are advised to stay alert amid warnings of heavy rain, flash floods, and dangerous seas, with regional flights and island trips potentially affected by the monsoon's intensification.</p><p>Travellers in Thailand are being told to keep an eye on the weather as the Thai Meteorological Department has warned of heavy rain, flash flooding and rough seas across much of the country. According to the department, a monsoon trough over the upper north and neighbouring Laos, together with a stronger south-west monsoon, is driving unsettled conditions from the north down to Bangkok and the coasts. </p> <p>For visitors heading to Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, the north-east or the central plains, the main concern is not just wet sightseeing but sudden flooding in places where rainwater can collect quickly. The department said the risk is highest near foothills, waterways and low-lying land, where short, intense downpours can leave roads slippery or temporarily impassable. </p> <p>The coast is likely to be the trickiest area for holidaymakers. Waves in the upper Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand are expected to reach 2 to 3 metres, and higher still in thunderstorms, prompting advice for small boats to remain ashore and for other vessels to avoid stormy patches. That matters most for anyone planning island hops, ferry crossings or beach days on the Andaman side, including around Phuket, Phang Nga and nearby provinces. </p> <p>The warning covers a 24-hour period from 6am on August 9 to 6am on August 10, and the department also said Typhoon Dolphin, over the East China Sea, is heading for China rather than Thailand. Even so, travellers planning regional flights or trips further afield were advised to check conditions before setting out, as August remains firmly within the wet season. </p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/weather/thailand-weather-forecast-august-9-tmd-warns-of-flash-floods" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-66412345" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-weather-idUSKBN2A10X" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-66412345" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/9/thailand-issues-weather-warning-for-heavy-rain-and-flash-floods" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-weather-idUSKBN2A10X" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2023/08/09/asia/thailand-weather-warning-intl-hnk/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-66412345" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-thailand-weather-idUSKBN2A10X" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.npr.org/2023/08/09/thailand-weather-warning-heavy-rain-flash-floods" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a780bb07f00d0e609dd185dMon, 10 Aug 2026 11:42:39 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/10/bangkoks-suvarnabhumi-airport-updates-luggage-storage-costs-and-guidelines<p>Travelers transiting through Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport can now navigate luggage storage options with updated tariffs based on bag size and location, encouraging smarter planning during layovers.</p><p>Travellers transiting through Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport can store bags with Bellugg, but the price depends on size, and the safest approach is to confirm the tariff at the counter before handing anything over. The guide provided by Little Big Red Dot says the airport lists Bellugg storage on Levels 2 and 4, with published 24-hour rates of 100 baht for bags under 22 inches, 120 baht for 22 to 26 inches, and 150 baht for anything larger. Bellugg’s own airport information also points travellers to the airport for storage and delivery services, making it a practical option for a layover or a few hours between checkout and a hotel room being ready. </p> <p>Location matters as much as price. LuggageWarden says the counters are on Level 2 near Gate 4 and on Level 4 behind check-in Rows P and Q, while Bellugg’s pages describe the airport set-up as serving both arrival and departure flows. For travellers, that means it is worth checking whether you are coming from the rail link, the arrivals hall or the departures level before you commit, so you do not end up dragging a suitcase between floors unnecessarily. </p> <p>The size band is the key part of the bill. Bellugg’s published guidance says storage starts from 150 baht per item per 24 hours on some pages, but the Little Big Red Dot guide records a more specific size-based scale for Suvarnabhumi: 100 baht, 120 baht and 150 baht depending on the bag’s dimensions. For a visitor, the practical lesson is simple: measure wheels and handles as well as the shell, then check the live counter tariff rather than relying on a rough estimate. </p> <p>Bellugg says the airport service operates round the clock, and its instructions also make clear that travellers should keep the deposit receipt and collect their bag with enough buffer before the next flight or hotel move. That matters because a storage period that runs over a 24-hour boundary can alter the charge. It is also sensible to keep passports, medicines, valuables, batteries and boarding documents with you, since the convenience of bag storage should not come at the cost of essential items. </p> <p>For most visitors, the service makes sense when the maths is straightforward: one medium bag for a day should cost 120 baht under the published Suvarnabhumi tariff, while two such bags would double that before any extra time or service condition is added. Bellugg promotes the service as a hands-free way to move through Bangkok, and the airport set-up is clearly aimed at short-stop travellers who want to explore or bridge a hotel gap without luggage in tow. The key is to treat the published rate as the starting point, then verify the exact counter rule for your bag and your collection time on the day. </p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://littlebigreddot.com/suvarnabhumi-airport-luggage-storage-cost-guide/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://luggagewarden.com/city/bangkok/bangkok-suvarnabhumi-airport-luggage-storage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bellugg.com/en/luggage-delivery" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://luggagewarden.com/city/bangkok/bangkok-suvarnabhumi-airport-luggage-storage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bellugg.com/jp/blog/luggage-storage-at-suvarnabhumi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bellugg.com/jp/locations" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://littlebigreddot.com/suvarnabhumi-airport-luggage-storage-cost-guide/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://luggagewarden.com/city/bangkok/bangkok-suvarnabhumi-airport-luggage-storage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bellugg.com/jp/blog/luggage-storage-at-suvarnabhumi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://littlebigreddot.com/suvarnabhumi-airport-luggage-storage-cost-guide/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bellugg.com/en/luggage-delivery" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bellugg.com/jp/locations" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bellugg.com/tw/locations" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>} - Paragraph 5: ^{<a href="https://littlebigreddot.com/suvarnabhumi-airport-luggage-storage-cost-guide/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bellugg.com/en/luggage-delivery" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bellugg.com/jp/blog/luggage-storage-at-suvarnabhumi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.bellugg.com/en/blog/premium-airport-services-suvarnabhumi" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a79067b2fde92825a17b045Mon, 10 Aug 2026 11:41:13 +0000http://travelinthailand.makes.news/gb/en/travel-logistics/2026/08/10/vietnamese-airlines-drive-down-regional-airfares-making-thailand-trips-more-affordable-for-summer<p>Fares on routes from Vietnam to Thailand and neighbouring destinations have plummeted this summer due to increased capacity and heightened competition, promising better-value travel options for holidaymakers.</p><p>Flights from Vietnam to Thailand are becoming noticeably cheaper for holidaymakers, with fares on busy routes such as Ho Chi Minh City-Bangkok now starting at about VND1.9 million, roughly half last year’s level, according to reporting by VnExpress. For travellers heading to Thailand, the immediate takeaway is simple: summer journeys that were once expensive are now far more affordable, especially if you fly with a Vietnamese carrier rather than one of the foreign airlines still charging much higher prices.</p> <p>The price drop reflects a sharp increase in seat capacity, which has pushed competition higher across the region. VnExpress reported that a one-way ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Singapore fell from VND3.2 million to just over VND1.6 million, while fares on the Ho Chi Minh City-Jakarta route have also eased. The same pattern is feeding into fares from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Europe and north-east Asia, suggesting the wider network is benefiting from the extra supply.</p> <p>Industry data cited by VnExpress from British aviation analytics group OAG shows Vietnam is set to have 7.3 million seats available in August, up 10% from a year earlier and second only to Indonesia in south-east Asia. Vietnam Airlines is expected to provide 2.8 million of those seats, while Vietjet Air accounts for 2.2 million. Vietjet has also increased its Ho Chi Minh City-Kuala Lumpur service to seven flights a week for the peak season and plans new routes to Colombo, Almaty and Prague, which should keep pressure on fares across the region.</p> <p>For travellers, that means it may now be worth checking Vietnamese airlines first when comparing Thailand trips, particularly if flexibility matters and you are booking during peak holiday periods. Hong Thanh, who owns a ticket agency in Ho Chi Minh City, told VnExpress that softer demand for overseas travel has also helped restrain prices, while lower fuel costs are adding further relief after the government cut several fuel-related taxes and fees from July 1 until September 30. In practical terms, anyone planning a Thailand break could find better-value fares than last summer, although prices still vary sharply between airlines and dates.</p> <h3>Source Reference Map</h3> <p><strong>Inspired by headline at:</strong> ^{<a href="https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/economy/vietnam-airfares-to-singapore-thailand-plummet-5107456.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}</p> <p><strong>Sources by paragraph:</strong> - Paragraph 1: ^{<a href="https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/economy/vietnam-airfares-to-singapore-thailand-plummet-5107456.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/economy/vietnam-airfares-to-singapore-thailand-plummet-5107456.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>} - Paragraph 2: ^{<a href="https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/economy/vietnam-airfares-to-singapore-thailand-plummet-5107456.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/economy/vietnam-airfares-to-singapore-thailand-plummet-5107456.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>} - Paragraph 3: ^{<a href="https://www.vietnam.vn/en/hang-khong-viet-nam-tang-cuong-bay-noi-dia-va-quoc-te-cho-mua-he-2023" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[3]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/en/printer/19090?type=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[4]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://www.vietnamairlines.com/en-gb/vietnam-airlines-increases-flights-to-europe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[5]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://vietnamnet.vn/en/vietnam-airlines-plans-to-restore-its-entire-flight-network-by-the-end-of-2023-2034829.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[6]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://e.vnexpress.net/news/travel/vietnam-airlines-to-restore-nearly-90-of-international-flight-frequency-4649640.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[7]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/economy/vietnam-airfares-to-singapore-thailand-plummet-5107456.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>} - Paragraph 4: ^{<a href="https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/economy/vietnam-airfares-to-singapore-thailand-plummet-5107456.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[1]</a>}, ^{<a href="https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/economy/vietnam-airfares-to-singapore-thailand-plummet-5107456.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">[2]</a>}</p> <p>Source: <a href="https://www.noahwire.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Noah Wire Services</a></p>6a79b2a04e1c00f86eb4bf0eMon, 10 Aug 2026 11:40:22 +0000