EXPLAINED: Phuket | Rare Historical Photos

As Thailand cracks down on foreigners, a tourist paradise reconsiders its welcome

Thailand is facing a growing backlash against foreign influence in its tourist hotspots, particularly southern islands such as Koh Phangan, Phuket and Koh Samui. Locals fear foreign investors and businesses are reshaping communities, driving up property prices and pushing residents out.

The Economic Times · 15h ago

US Carrier In Phuket: George HW Bush arrives for shore break; visit underscores US–Thailand ties

The US aircraft carrier George HW Bush arrived off Thailand’s resort island of Phuket on Sunday with about 4,800 personnel aboard for a rest-and-recreation break after months of supporting US military operations in the Middle East.

The Times of India · Oct 4

AGT guest judge praises 16-year-old Nene Royal’s ‘insane’ performance

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The Independent UK · Sep 24

Air India Phuket-Delhi pilot used psycho-active substance, preliminary report finds

An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced a sudden altitude drop. The Pilot-in-Command tested non-negative for psycho-active substance in a confirmatory test. This incident resulted in injuries to twenty passengers and four cabin crew members. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau released a preliminary report on the event. The…

The Economic Times · Sep 4

Nene Royal reaches America’s Got Talent final: The 16-year-old Thai singer from Phuket who makes the grand finale with a Live Golden Buzzer

In a stunning turn of events, Nene Royal, a gifted guitarist hailing from Phuket, has clinched a direct spot in the finals of America's Got Talent. She impressed judge Mel B so much that she was awarded the Live Golden Buzzer for her captivating performance. Having previously entertained audiences at…

The Economic Times · Aug 26

Who Is Nene Royal? AGT Teen's Incredible Rise From a $49 Guitar to 200 Million Views

Nene Royal, a 16-year-old guitarist from Thailand, has gained international fame through America's Got Talent, inspiring young musicians and boosting Thailand's tourism efforts.

International Business Times UK · Aug 26

Palestine flag in Phuket shop angers Israelis

PHUKET - An argument between a mobile phone shop owner and two Israeli tourists over a “Free Palestine” flag has drawn attention after video of the exchange was posted on social media.

Bangkok Post · Aug 25

DGCA weighs annual random drug tests for pilots after Air India Phuket-Delhi incident: Ram Mohan Naidu

India's aviation regulator is considering mandatory annual random drug tests for all pilots. This proposal follows a recent Air India incident, prompting policy review. Currently, only ten percent of pilots undergo random drug testing each year. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is consulting stakeholders on potential rule changes. Any…

The Economic Times · Aug 25

Illegal hookah shop shut down in Phuket

PHUKET - Authorities have seized 32 illegal hookah sets, known as “Baragu” in Thai, from a shop in Muang district that caters to tourists.

Bangkok Post · Aug 25

Visas of troublemaking visitors to be revoked

The Tourism Minister backs revoking the visas of foreigners who cause conflicts in Thailand, following recent disputes between Israelis and locals in Koh Samui and Phuket, while unrest in the far South should not affect the Malaysian market during next week's National Day holiday.

Bangkok Post · Aug 24