Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

International Schools Checked as Phuket Targets Illegal Nominee Businesses

Phuket police launched a crackdown on nominee businesses and illegal land occupation, including inspections of international schools as part of efforts to combat organized crime.

6d ago The Phuket Express

The Phuket Express -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Phuket— Law enforcement in Phuket has launched a sweeping crackdown on nominee businesses and illegal land occupation, reinforcing the government’s national security agenda and targeting organized crime in local communities including International Schools. The operation, directed by Pol. Maj. Gen. Sinlert Sukhum, Commander of Phuket Provincial Police, and Pol. Col. Surasak Jaidee, Superintendent of Chalong […] International Schools Checked as Phuket Targets Illegal Nominee Businesses -=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=- The Phuket Express - Real. Unbiased. Impactful. In the moment.

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Tourism

‘Minions & Monsters’ is a crazy ride that fans will love

Pierre Coffin's Minions & Monsters takes viewers on an unexpected journey through Hollywood history while following the lovable yellow troublemakers in their latest adventure.

6d ago The Phuket News Life

When I walked into the cinema to watch Minions & Monsters I was not expecting to be taken on a journey through the history of Hollywood. Yet somehow the talented Pierre Coffin (Despicable Me), who co-directs, co-wrote and voice acts this film, has managed to make a film about these lovable troublemakers feel like you are talking a walk through a Hollywood museum.

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Police

Phuket Police Raid Busts Downtown Drug Den, Three Suspects Arrested

Phuket City Police dismantled a downtown drug distribution operation Thursday, arresting three suspects and seizing crystal methamphetamine from a residence in Soi Phunphol 11.

26 Jun The Phuket Express

The Phuket Express -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Phuket — A coordinated police operation has dismantled a notorious drug distribution site in the heart of Phuket City, leading to the arrest of three suspects and the seizure of crystal methamphetamine and related evidence. On Thursday (June 25th) the Phuket City Police alongside district officials raided a residence in Soi Phunphol 11 of Talad […] Phuket Police Raid Busts Downtown Drug Den, Three Suspects Arrested -=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=- The Phuket Express - Real. Unbiased. Impactful. In the moment.

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Tourism

Thailand Launches Cross-Border QR Payment System For Tourists

Thailand has launched a cross-border QR payment system allowing tourists from East Asia to pay using their home country mobile apps and e-wallets at participating merchants nationwide. The "Pay Like a Local" initiative aims to boost conveni

26 Jun TAT Newsroom

Bangkok, 26 June 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, is highlighting Thailand’s readiness for Cross-Border QR Payment across the tourism sector under the “Pay Like a Local” concept. The initiative connects merchant adoption with traveller awareness, making digital payments more convenient for foreign visitors while opening new opportunities for Thai businesses.

This effort is advanced by the Bank of Thailand in collaboration with eight participating banks: Krungthai Bank, Bangkok Bank, Kasikornbank, Siam Commercial Bank, Bank of Ayudhya, ICBC Thai, Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives, and CIMB Thai Bank; together with payment and switching partners National ITMX, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and UnionPay. TAT is promoting QR payment convenience at attractions, shops, restaurants, and tourism establishments nationwide through international marketing and publicity channels, particularly in East Asia.

Mrs. Sirigesanong Trirattanasongpol, TAT Executive Director of the East Asia Region, said, “Changing traveller behaviour, particularly among visitors from East Asia and neighbouring markets where mobile payment and QR Payment are widely used in daily life, makes Cross-Border QR Payment increasingly important to the visitor experience. This cooperation marks another important step in advancing Thailand’s tourism industry, creating business opportunities for operators, and reinforcing the country’s image as a modern global destination for digital travellers from around the world.”

For visitors, “Pay Like a Local” allows use of supported mobile banking applications or e-wallets from their home markets to scan and pay at participating outlets across Thailand. The service reduces reliance on cash and enables more familiar, secure, and seamless day-to-day spending. It is currently available to users from China, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Viet Nam, South Korea, Lao PDR, Cambodia, and Hong Kong, with further expansion planned.

To introduce the initiative in a high-traffic setting, a Merchant Activation Roadshow is taking place this afternoon at Asiatique The Riverfront Destination in Bangkok. Held between Warehouses 8 and 9, the event engages shops, restaurants, and tourism operators in preparing to accept QR payments.

Participating merchants can learn about the system, assess their readiness, consult with partner banks, and register for QR merchant services on-site. The event also includes partner booths, promotions, a lucky draw for registered merchants, and an awareness walk by agencies and partners to encourage broader adoption.

The Bangkok activation follows a pilot in Udon Thani on 31 March 2026, which prepared local operators for an expected rise in Chinese visitors. The first phase included a seminar on QR Payment acceptance for 52 operators at Monthathip Hall Convention Centre and a mobile outreach unit supporting small businesses along Thong Yai Road and at UD Town.

The post TAT highlights Thailand’s “Pay Like a Local” Cross-Border QR Payment readiness appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

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National

Thailand's July 2026 Festival Calendar Showcases Cultural Events

Thailand's July festivals celebrate the nation's cultural heritage, from the Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival to family-friendly events like Samui Story Fun Fest and traditional Mor Lam performances across the country.

26 Jun TAT Newsroom

Experience Thailand’s rich cultural diversity through a vibrant lineup of festivals and community celebrations this July. Witness the spectacular Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, enjoy the traditional sounds of Mor Lam “Roi Kaen Sara Sin”, join the family-friendly fun at Samui Story Fun Fest, discover local traditions at the Phaya Sri Satta Nakarat Worship Festival 2026, and celebrate southern culture at Hroi Raeng FEST 2026. Alongside many other events nationwide, these festivities offer unique opportunities to experience Thailand’s rich heritage, creativity, and community spirit.

Mor Lam “Roi Kaen Sara Sin”

30 June – 2 July 2026Phikun Thong Auditorium, Kalasin College of Dramatic ArtsMueang District, Kalasin

Highlights:A cultural event dedicated to preserving and passing on the wisdom of traditional Mor Lam folk performance to younger generations through workshops, live performances, discussions, and demonstrations by renowned Isan artists and performers.

Bangsaen Grand Prix 2026

1 – 5 July 2026Bangsaen Beach RoadChon Buri

Highlights:Thailand’s premier beachfront street racing event returns for its 20th anniversary, combining world-class motorsport action with the scenic atmosphere of Bangsaen Beach. Visitors can enjoy thrilling races, special activities, and a unique seaside racing experience throughout the five-day festival.

Nakhon Spirit Craft 2026

2 – 5 July 2026Wat Wang Tawan Tok, Mueang DistrictNakhon Si Thammarat

Highlights:A contemporary craft and cultural festival celebrating the living heritage of Nakhon Si Thammarat through design, craftsmanship, food, music, and sustainable tourism under the theme “Living x Timeless Craft.” Held alongside Creative Nakhon #7, the event showcases how traditional wisdom continues to inspire modern lifestyles.

Sawankhalok Chinese Opera Festival 2026

3 – 12 July 2026Chao Pho Pung Thao Kong Shrine, Sawankhalok DistrictSukhothai

Highlights:A lively cultural festival featuring traditional Chinese opera performances, lion dances, parades, local food, shopping stalls, and vibrant nighttime festivities celebrating the rich Thai-Chinese heritage of Sawankhalok.

Rinma Summer Beach 2026

4 July 2026Sea Sand Sun Hua Hin Resort, Cha-am DistrictPhetchaburi

Highlights:A lively beachfront music festival featuring more than 10 artists, energetic performances, and a fun summer atmosphere by the sea along the Cha-am–Hua Hin coastline.

Samui Story Fun Fest

4 – 5 July 2026Chaweng Square, Central Samui, Ko SamuiSurat Thani

Highlights:Discover more than 45 selected local vendors from across Ko Samui, offering delicious local cuisine and unique products, while enjoying a vibrant programme of family-friendly activities, including traditional fairground games, student performances, and a fancy-dress competition.

Phaya Sri Satta Nakarat Worship Festival 2026

7 – 13 July 2026Phaya Sri Satta Nakarat, Mekong Riverfront, Mueang DistrictNakhon Phanom

Highlights:One of Northeastern Thailand’s most significant spiritual and cultural celebrations, honouring Phaya Sri Satta Nakarat with sacred worship ceremonies, traditional dance performances, cultural showcases, OTOP markets, local culinary experiences, and nightly folk entertainment along the Mekong River.

Thailand Diecast Expo 2026

10 – 12 July 2026ICONSIAM Hall, 7th Floor, ICONSIAMBangkok

Highlights:A major diecast and collectables expo that brings together model car brands, toy collectors, hobby enthusiasts, and creative communities, featuring exhibitions, activities, rare collectables, and interactive experiences for all generations.

Mae La Noi Craft Camp 2026

11 July 2026Herntai Resort, Mae La Noi DistrictMae Hong Son

Highlights:A unique rainy-season music and camping festival set amid the breathtaking terraced rice fields of Mae La Noi, celebrating the beauty of Mae Hong Son’s Green Season through live music, local culture, sustainable tourism, and immersive outdoor experiences.

Isan Creative Festival 2026

11 – 19 July 2026TCDC Khon Kaen, Central Khon Kaen Campus, Si Chan Creative District, KICE Khon Kaen International Convention and Exhibition Centre, and other locations throughout the Northeast.

Highlights:A major creative festival showcasing the modern identity of Northeastern Thailand through exhibitions, workshops, creative markets, business platforms, performances, and over 200 programs celebrating Isan culture, design, innovation, and local talent.

Thailand Magic Arts Festival

18 – 19 July 2026Mr. FOX LIVE HOUSEBangkok

Highlights:Thailand’s largest magic festival featuring international and Thai magicians, gala performances, magic competitions, lectures, interactive exhibitions, and networking activities celebrating the creativity and evolution of modern magic arts.

Pa Kad Chiang Rai 2026

24 July – 2 August 2026Kad Luang Chiang RaiChiang Rai

Highlights:A vibrant community arts festival transforming Chiang Rai’s iconic market into a creative playground with art installations, fashion shows, music competitions, cultural parades, and interactive activities celebrating local creativity and everyday life.

Hroi Raeng FEST

25 – 26 July 2026Bovorn Beach, Tha Sala DistrictNakhon Si Thammarat

Highlights:A vibrant seaside festival celebrating the flavours, culture, and creativity of southern Thailand with live music, local cuisine, craft markets, beach activities, international kite displays, fire shows, and spectacular fireworks by the sea.

Tak Bat Dok Mai Khao Phansa 2026

27 – 30 July 2026Wat Phra Phutthabat RatchaworamahawihanSaraburi

Highlights:One of Thailand’s most distinctive Buddhist traditions, held exclusively in Saraburi, where devotees offer the seasonal Khao Phansa flower to monks at the beginning of Buddhist Lent. The festival combines deep religious devotion, cultural heritage, and the Royal Candle Offering Ceremony in a unique celebration found nowhere else in the world.

Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival 2026

28 – 30 July 2026Thung Si MueangUbon Ratchathani

Highlights:One of Thailand’s most spectacular Buddhist festivals, featuring magnificent candle parades, intricate wax carvings, traditional dance processions, and dazzling light-and-sound performances celebrating the beginning of Buddhist Lent in northeastern Thailand.

The post July 2026 Event and Calendar appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

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Tourism

Thailand Prepares For 2026 IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings

Thailand will host the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Annual Meetings in Bangkok from October 12-18, 2026, marking the country's return to hosting the global event after 35 years.

25 Jun TAT Newsroom

Bangkok, 25 June 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is marking the countdown to Thailand’s hosting of the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG), to be held from 12–18 October 2026 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.

The event marks an important milestone as Thailand prepares to welcome thousands of delegates, including finance ministers, central bank governors, policymakers, private-sector leaders, academics, civil society representatives, and international media. This will be the second time Thailand has hosted the Annual Meetings, following the 1991 edition in Bangkok. Held every October, the Meetings take place at the IMF and World Bank Group headquarters in Washington, D.C., for two consecutive years and in a selected member country every third year, making Thailand’s 2026 hosting a significant return to the global stage.

Returning after 35 years, the Annual Meetings reflect Thailand’s continued progress as a dynamic regional hub with modern infrastructure, strong connectivity, service excellence, and proven capability in hosting major international events.

Under the theme “Thailand’s New Horizons: Empowering People, Building Resilience,” the Meetings will bring global attention to Thailand’s progress, resilience, and readiness to contribute to international dialogue on economic and development priorities.

For visitors, the hosting of the Annual Meetings reaffirms Thailand’s position as a safe, secure, well-connected, and welcoming global destination. Bangkok, the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, and surrounding districts will provide delegates with access to efficient services, Thai hospitality, cultural experiences, dining, shopping, and the energy of one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.

Beyond the formal programme, the event offers an opportunity to present Thailand’s identity to the world through its cultural heritage, creativity, hospitality, and strong visitor readiness. It also reflects international confidence in Thailand as a destination where global dialogue, business travel, and meaningful visitor experiences come together.

TAT invites visitors, delegates, and media to follow official AM2026 Thailand channels for updates as Thailand prepares to welcome the world to Bangkok in October 2026. For more information, visit www.am2026thailand.go.th.   The post TAT marks countdown to 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings in Bangkok appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

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Tourism

TAT And AirAsia MOVE Sign Three-Year Tourism Partnership

TAT and AirAsia MOVE signed a three-year partnership to boost Thailand tourism through digital campaigns and targeted marketing, leveraging the online travel platform's 17 million monthly users across Asia.

23 Jun TAT Newsroom

Bangkok, 23 June 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and AirAsia MOVE, one of Asia’s leading online travel agencies, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) under “TAT x MOVE: Seamless Journey, Amazing Thailand” to expand digital travel promotion, connect traveller insights with targeted campaigns, and stimulate travel to and across Thailand.

The MOU covers co-branded campaigns, content promotion, and joint marketing initiatives across TAT’s channels and the AirAsia MOVE platform. The three-year partnership aims to strengthen Thailand’s position as a world-class tourism destination and apply traveller insights from key markets across Asia and beyond to more focused destination marketing.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “Digital platforms are reshaping how travellers discover, plan, and experience destinations. Through AirAsia MOVE’s regional reach and traveller insights, TAT can connect online inspiration with real travel choices, support major and emerging destinations, and create stronger opportunities for local tourism businesses nationwide. This collaboration advances the Platform Economy under the Amazing 5 Economy framework, while reinforcing TAT’s direction to promote UNESCO Creative Cities, green destinations, and tourism growth that delivers wider value across the country.”

AirAsia MOVE will activate its regional platform and more than 17 million monthly active users to raise awareness of Thai destinations, spotlighting Thailand’s ‘Five Must-Do’ experiences. The partnership will connect travel interest with local tourism operators, broaden access to emerging destinations, and support wider distribution of visitor spending nationwide.

Ms. Nadia Omer, Chief Executive Officer of AirAsia MOVE, said, “This partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand is a pivotal step in advancing regional travel. By actively supporting the ‘Platform Economy’ pillar of the Amazing 5 Economy framework, AirAsia MOVE is uniquely positioned to accelerate this growth. Over the next three years, we will leverage our expansive ecosystem and data-driven insights to transform traveller aspiration into action, directly funnelling demand to local operators, empowering communities, and fostering sustainable economic growth across Thailand.”

The collaboration supports TAT’s strategic move to convert travel interest into visits, broaden visitor flows across destinations, and create wider value for tourism businesses nationwide.

In support of the collaboration, AirAsia MOVE shared seven travel trends shaping Thailand tourism in the first half of 2026, based on traveller behaviour and booking data across its regional travel ecosystem. Asia remained the primary driver of inbound travel, with Malaysia, India, China, and Indonesia continuing as top source markets for Thailand.

Younger travellers continued to influence travel patterns, with the 30–39 age group remaining among the largest traveller segments. These travellers seek more personalised and meaningful experiences, including adventure, local culture, culinary discovery, and immersive activities. Free Independent Travel also remained strong, with solo travellers accounting for 59.57% of all bookings.

India emerged as a star market, with family and large-group travellers making up more than 43% of Indian visitors, many staying for seven to 15 days. Travellers from India also recorded the highest revenue per booking on the platform, with demand increasingly coming from secondary cities including Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, and Ahmedabad.

Indonesia demonstrated strong loyalty and meaningful travel opportunities, with couple travellers accounting for 24.71% of Indonesian bookings and 73.4% of seats sold coming from AirAsia Members. The trend points to opportunities for destinations such as Krabi, Chiang Mai, and Samui to attract Indonesian travellers seeking authentic local experiences, nature, wellness, and memorable getaways.

The United States remained an important long-haul source market, with travellers aged 50 and above accounting for 32% of US visitors on the platform. With a 77% round-trip booking rate, these travellers tended to stay longer, spend more, and use Thailand as a gateway to Southeast Asia. East Asian travellers from China, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan continued to show strong spending power, with more than 70% staying in Thailand for up to five days, creating opportunities for premium short breaks, city escapes, festivals, and event-driven tourism.

These insights support TAT’s efforts to sharpen product promotion, respond to changing traveller behaviour, and connect more visitors with meaningful travel experiences across Thailand.

The post Tourism Authority of Thailand and AirAsia MOVE partner to boost travel to and across Thailand appeared first on TAT Newsroom.

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Regional

HATYAI PRIDE CITY FESTIVAL 2026

Hatyai Pride City Festival 2026The Hatyai Pride City Festival returns bigger than ever, co-organized by Lostinhatyai and Bangkokpride. Driving the momentum toward WorldPride 2030, this celebration fea...

23 Jun Thailand.go.th Events

Hatyai Pride City Festival 2026The Hatyai Pride City Festival returns bigger than ever, co-organized by Lostinhatyai and Bangkokpride. Driving the momentum toward WorldPride 2030, this celebration fea...

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

BBFF - Bangkok Bicycle Film Festival 2026

BBFF - Bangkok Bicycle Film Festival 2026ChangChui Creative Park is transforming into Bangkok's ultimate hub for cyclists, film lovers, and creatives. This two-day international festival features an e...

23 Jun Thailand.go.th Events

BBFF - Bangkok Bicycle Film Festival 2026ChangChui Creative Park is transforming into Bangkok's ultimate hub for cyclists, film lovers, and creatives. This two-day international festival features an e...

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Community

Mae Ramphueng Soul and Sound

Mae Ramphueng Soul and SoundTake a break and recharge by the sea at the Mae Ramphueng Soul and Sound event. Centered around health, nature, and art, this gathering invites you to slow down and reconne...

23 Jun Thailand.go.th Events

Mae Ramphueng Soul and SoundTake a break and recharge by the sea at the Mae Ramphueng Soul and Sound event. Centered around health, nature, and art, this gathering invites you to slow down and reconne...

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Feel All The Feelings @Angthong

Feel All The Feelings @AngthongThe Tourism Authority of Thailand invites you to experience the charm of a retro riverside market at Feel All The Feelings @Angthong. Discover the beauty of this small t...

23 Jun Thailand.go.th Events

Feel All The Feelings @AngthongThe Tourism Authority of Thailand invites you to experience the charm of a retro riverside market at Feel All The Feelings @Angthong. Discover the beauty of this small t...

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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