Kuwaiti biker gangs defy Pattaya traffic laws, keeping residents awake with nightly street chaos PATTAYA, Thailand – As nightly chaos returns to Pattaya’s streets, frustrated residents say Kuwaiti tourists on rented motorbikes are openly ignoring traffic laws—speeding, drag racing, and revving illegal exhausts well into the early hours. The noise and recklessness have become so unbearable that some locals say they’ve been forced to leave their neighborhoods altogether. Despite publicized crackdowns and short-lived police operations, the situation shows no signs of improving. Locals point out that while police are occasionally visible—especially when promotional photos or PR videos are needed—the presence fades quickly, with officers retreating to air-conditioned booths and offices as the disturbances return. Critics ask why laws exist if they aren’t enforced, questioning the point of an official force that allows this level of disorder. Calls for deportation of law-breaking tourists are growing louder, as many believe more decisive action is long overdue. Another issue drawing fire is the apparent impunity of motorbike rental shops. Residents claim these businesses continue to rent powerful bikes to reckless tourists—particularly groups of young Kuwaiti men—despite knowing how the vehicles will be misused. The pattern repeats every high season, leading some to believe enforcement authorities are turning a blind eye or simply unable to act. Locals are also beginning to ask: What is it about Middle Eastern tourists that make them seemingly untouchable? Are they paying more than other nationalities? Are there personal or diplomatic connections shielding them from consequences? Or is Thailand simply so desperate for tourist income that it’s willing to trade public safety for short-term cash? As other regional destinations like Vietnam grow in popularity, some say Thailand’s tolerance for lawlessness is actively driving tourists away. For now, many Pattaya residents remain skeptical that any lasting solution will be found—especially without serious consequences for both the violators and those who enable them. Calls grow to fine rental shops and deport law-breaking tourists as public frustration mounts in Pattaya

Jet Ski rider enjoys clear Pattaya waters as weather bureau forecasts only 30% chance of rain and low disruption risk for beach plans. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – Weather conditions in Pattaya remain relatively steady, with only slight chances of rain expected. While much of upper Thailand is seeing scattered thunderstorms, the eastern region – including Pattaya – faces only a 30% chance of rain. The Meteorological Department reports that the weakening southwest monsoon continues to cover the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. This results in light, isolated showers rather than widespread storms. Winds over the Gulf are moderate, with wave heights around 1 meter, rising to over 2 meters in thunderstorm areas. While no major weather warnings are in place, small boat operators and beachgoers are advised to stay alert to sudden weather changes. With just a low chance of rain in the city, locals and tourists are encouraged to keep an eye on the skies—but most plans can go ahead under mostly fair conditions.

Acting PM Phumtham clarifies poker legalization supports international sports competitions, denies link to entertainment complex law, and urges media to help public understanding. PATTAYA, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has addressed recent controversy surrounding the government’s decision to legalize poker, stressing that the move is aimed solely at supporting international sports competitions and is not related to the forthcoming Entertainment Complex legislation. Speaking at the Government House this morning, Phumtham explained that the classification of poker has long been governed under laws dating back to 1958 (B.E. 2501), and after more than 67 years, a review was necessary. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports proposed reclassifying poker as an international sport, rather than as a form of gambling. “This announcement means poker is no longer considered gambling but a sport at the international level,” said Phumtham. He added that under the current Gambling Act, poker falls under category B, which is now being repealed and replaced by new legislation. The recent announcement to lift restrictions on poker is simply to open opportunities for international poker competitions to be held in Thailand. When asked whether the government should have explained the policy change to the public before implementing it, Phumtham responded with some frustration. “Oh ho! If we followed that approach, it would mean we have to ask the public’s permission for everything. This is a matter of administrative management, and it’s something we can explain clearly. There should be no problem.” Addressing concerns that the poker legalization might be a step toward establishing the controversial Entertainment Complex law, Phumtham firmly denied any connection. “This is not related at all,” he said. The announcement has stirred debate among the public and media, with some questioning the timing and transparency of the policy shift. However, Phumtham emphasized that the government’s priority is to promote Thailand’s readiness to host international sporting events and enhance tourism, without encouraging illegal gambling activities.

Expat blames reckless riding — not U-turns — for Pattaya road tragedy, citing firsthand experience with high-speed motorbike crashes. PATTAYA, Thailand – In response to a recent report by Pattaya Mail titled “Thailand’s infamous U-turns claim another life — this time in Pattaya,” a long-term foreign resident has pushed back against what he sees as misplaced blame, arguing that reckless motorbike behavior is the real issue on Thai roads. The expat, writing to the publication in a letter to the editor, expressed confusion over why the report appeared to fault the U-turn maneuver by a truck, rather than focusing on the conduct of the speeding motorcyclist who struck the rear of the vehicle at high speed. “According to your article, the motorcyclist hit the rear of the lorry at very high speed,” he wrote. “The lorry could just as easily have been making a right turn. I presume it had rear lights, which would have been visible if the motorcyclist was looking ahead.” Drawing on personal experience, the expat recounted a similar incident involving his brother-in-law, whose truck was struck from behind by a young man on a powerful motorcycle. “I saw this happen. The motorcyclist had his head down (presumably to avoid wind blast) and was not looking ahead,” he said, adding that the rider fortunately survived with only bruises, but the truck was badly damaged. “There is a problem in Thailand with men on powerful motorbikes putting their heads down and using the roads as a racetrack, and not practicing defensive riding,” the letter continued. “I suspect this was the case with the motorcyclist in your article — he probably had his head down to protect his eyes from wind blast and was not looking ahead.” While acknowledging that U-turns are often hazardous and poorly designed across Thailand, the expat asserted that focusing solely on infrastructure overlooks a much broader issue. “Rather than it being a national U-turn problem, I consider this to be part of the national motorbike problem, since the vast majority of road accidents involve motorbikes,” he wrote. The letter comes as road safety remains a top concern in Thailand, which consistently ranks among the countries with the highest traffic fatality rates globally. Motorcyclists make up the overwhelming majority of traffic deaths, according to national accident data. Earlier Report: https://www.pattayamail.com/news/thailands-infamous-u-turns-claim-another-life-this-time-in-pattaya-512630

A night of glamour and transformation: On July 5, Tiffany’s Theatre in Pattaya unveiled Crystallize a Dream, a dazzling new production that redefines the world-renowned transgender cabaret show—marking 50 years of bold reinvention and timeless legacy. PATTAYA, Thailand – It was a night that glittered with history and hope. On July 5, Tiffany’s Theatre in Pattaya hosted the grand premiere of Crystallize a Dream, a completely new production that boldly reimagines what has become one of the world’s most celebrated transgender cabaret shows. After five decades, Tiffany’s is proving that true legends don’t stand still—they reinvent themselves. Founded in 1974 by the late Senator Sutham Phanthusak, Tiffany’s Show began as a modest performance by nine entertainers in a small cabaret theatre. Few could have foreseen that this humble beginning would spark a cultural phenomenon, transforming Pattaya’s reputation on the global stage and becoming a symbol of artistic excellence and inclusion. Senator Sutham’s entrepreneurial touch extended far beyond the theatre, shaping Pattaya’s hospitality scene with landmarks like the Woodlands Hotel and several acclaimed restaurants. Yet it was his deep love for Pattaya and its people that truly set him apart. “My father always believed that thinking differently could open new doors,” shared Alisa Phanthusak Kunpalin, Managing Director of Tiffany’s Show. “He faced many challenges fighting for acceptance, but he never let go of his vision.” Today, his widow Orawan and three daughters Darin Alisa and Varassaya steer PTS Holding with the same blend of innovation and compassion, navigating even the toughest times. “During covid, every business struggled,” said Alisa. “But we focused on supporting our staff so they could get through it together with us. That’s something my father would have wanted.” Khun Orawan (2nd left) and her daughters Darin, Alisa, and Varassaya lead PTS Holding with innovation and compassion, honoring their father’s legacy through resilience and care—even in the toughest times. “That’s something their father would have wanted.” The premiere of Crystallize a Dream marks Tiffany’s first-ever complete overhaul of its production—a bold move after 50 years of gradual changes. This new 75-minute show unfolds in nine vivid acts—Pattaya, To Dream, Butterfly Ball, Diverse-City, Fashionista, The Queen, and Crystallised—crafted by an international creative team, including designers and producers from Lausanne. Dazzling LED screens, fresh choreography, and original music blend seamlessly to deliver a spectacle that feels both rooted in tradition and strikingly modern. “It’s not just about costumes and dance,” explained Alisa. “It’s a stage of life where we try to make everyone’s dreams come true. We wanted the show to reflect the many shades of human experience, like the facets of a crystal.” The new production is guided by the brand’s vision, Open Beyond the Eye, which calls on audiences to embrace beauty and diversity beyond appearances. Dr. Darin Phanthusak, Vice President of PTS Holding, summed up this philosophy: “True beauty lies beyond appearances. It thrives on graceful movements, inner strength, and authentic self-expression.” The creative transformation took nearly two years to plan while keeping the existing show running. Then, in just three weeks, the theatre closed to rebuild the stage, install new technology, and rehearse the performance—a logistical feat overseen by Show Production Director Sakdipat Sangsuriyong, who has been part of Tiffany’s since 2003. “This was the biggest challenge of my career,” he admitted. “Replacing the entire program at once had never been done before.” The new 75-minute Tiffany’s show dazzles across nine vivid acts—Pattaya, To Dream, Butterfly Ball, Diverse-City, Fashionista, The Queen, and Crystallised—brought to life by an international creative team. Beyond technical brilliance, the emotional core remains the performers themselves. Backstage, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and nostalgia. Suphap Saengkhamchoo—known fondly as Mae Ood—the first Tiffany’s showgirl who joined the company 50 years ago, shared: “I feel as excited as I did on my very first day. Of course, there’s also fear about how the audience will accept the new format, but it’s a beautiful journey forward.” Veteran performer Pop Tiffany’s, with 24 years on stage, said the new show challenges cast members to go deeper. “It’s no longer just about looking glamorous. We have to show the heart and meaning behind every act.” For Cait Tiffany’s, the youngest at 23, the new production represents freedom: “This is my dream stage, where I can express who I truly am.” The show’s creative evolution was also guided by Art Araya (Araya Indra), a celebrated Thai drag artist and stylist who joined as creative consultant. “We didn’t erase Tiffany’s legacy,” she explained. “We shook it up to make it more dynamic and relevant for young audiences who will share it on social media. The goal was to recreate that excitement the original show sparked in its time.” Blending tradition with modern spectacle, the new production shines with LED visuals, original music, and bold choreography—all guided by Tiffany’s vision, Open Beyond the Eye, inviting audiences to see beauty and diversity beyond appearances. Crystallize a Dream offers more than spectacle—it carries a message. In Diverse-City, rock ’n’ roll becomes the anthem of living freely. In Fashionista, fashion transforms into storytelling and identity. The final act, Crystallised, shines as a fearless declaration: “I’m Not Afraid to Shine.” The premiere drew high-profile guests from across Thailand, including Dr. Nahathai Thewphaingarm, Deputy Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, and Austrian Ambassador Wilhelm M. Donko, whose presence, together with his wife, was warmly appreciated by the Phanthusak family. The evening concluded with a lively after-party at Tiffany’s in-house restaurant, Thai Marché—a fitting celebration of five decades of artistry and resilience. As Tiffany’s Show steps confidently into its next chapter, Crystallize a Dream promises to dazzle audiences daily, with three performances at 6pm, 7.30pm, and 9.30pm. Tickets can be booked at www.tiffany-show.co.th. The premiere of Crystallize a Dream marks Tiffany’s first complete production overhaul, unfolding in nine vivid acts—Pattaya, To Dream, Butterfly Ball, Diverse-City, Fashionista, The Queen, and Crystallised—crafted by an international creative team, including talent from Lausanne. “It’s not just about costumes and dance,” said Alisa. “It’s a stage of life where we try to make everyone’s dreams come true. The show reflects the many shades of human experience—like the facets of a crystal.” Clockwise from top left: Khun Orawan Phanthusak with her daughters Darin, Alisa, and Varassaya pose with Peter Malhotra (Pattaya Mail) and Chuthathip Mahaphaisan; Varassaya Phanthusak (centre) warmly welcomes H.E. Wilhelm M. Donko, Ambassador of Austria to Thailand, and his wife Yan; Dr. Nahathai Thewphaingarm, Deputy Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, with Peter Malhotra. The evening ended on a high note with a lively after-party at Thai Marché, Tiffany’s in-house restaurant—celebrating five decades of artistry, resilience, and show-stopping glamour. Crystallize a Dream delivers more than spectacle—it carries a message. In Diverse-City, rock ’n’ roll becomes an anthem of freedom; in Fashionista, fashion tells stories of identity. The finale, Crystallised, boldly declares: “I’m Not Afraid to Shine.”

Thai Airways confirms plan to acquire 80 new aircraft is part of its recovery strategy — not influenced by U.S. tax negotiations or political pressure. PATTAYA, Thailand – Lavaron Sangsnit, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Chairman of the Board of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, confirmed that the airline’s aircraft procurement plan is unrelated to U.S. import taxes. He stated that the purchase agreement has already been finalized for 45 Boeing aircraft, with an additional 35 planes planned for future acquisition — possibly also Boeings. However, no aircraft can be delivered this year due to production delays, with deliveries now expected in early 2028 instead of mid-2027 as originally planned. He clarified that the 80-90 aircraft figure mentioned by the “Team Thailand” delegation during U.S. tax negotiations refers to planes already purchased (45 aircraft) and options for 35 more. The final decision on these options — including type and quantity — rests solely with Thai Airways. He stressed that the purchase decision was made independently of political negotiations. “This decision had already been made, regardless of whether the U.S. tax talks happened. These 45 aircraft were always part of Thai Airways’ post-rehabilitation business plan,” said Lavaron. Chai Eamsiri, Chief Executive Officer of Thai Airways, added that there has been absolutely no political pressure influencing the decision. Since the end of 2023, there has been no external demand or interference. The aircraft purchase was based entirely on business fundamentals. He also noted that any discussions about U.S. tariffs, including those related to former President Trump’s policies, came after the decision. Regarding whether there have been new proposals for Thai Airways to purchase additional aircraft, Chai said no such suggestions have been made. He emphasized that Thai Airways’ ability to return to its current position stems from its independence and professional management — key factors driving its sustainable growth. When asked whether the company would issue dividends to shareholders in 2025, Chai said that, in principle, if the company reports a net profit of at least 25%, it would be able to pay dividends.

Governor Thawatchai leads the launch of Pattaya’s new vehicle reform pilot on Koh Larn, aiming to bring order to the island’s transport chaos. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya officials have launched a sweeping initiative to regulate public transport and rental vehicles on Koh Larn, aiming to improve safety, reduce congestion, and boost transparency. The campaign includes color-coded vehicle stickers to categorize and monitor the island’s diverse fleet of over 3,500 vehicles. Chonburi Governor Thawatchai Srithong led the effort, distributing classification stickers to local drivers and rental operators at Wat Mai Samran temple on Koh Larn. The new system, which includes nine vehicle categories — such as private motorcycles, motorbike taxis, rentals, golf carts, and passenger trucks — is intended to address longstanding concerns about unregulated transport on the island. In particular, unclear distinctions between private and commercial rental vehicles had led to disputes over public space and safety. The province recently closed Koh Larn for 14 days to conduct a comprehensive vehicle survey and registration. The new stickers, which include driver identification and are issued at no cost, will allow authorities to trace complaints, accidents, or misconduct back to specific operators. All future vehicle increases must be jointly approved by at least two of the following: Pattaya City, Pattaya Police, and Banglamung District Office. Governor Thawatchai emphasized that this effort also includes setting fair fare guidelines based on distance, to protect tourists from price gouging. Authorities are also encouraging vehicle operators to verify renters’ driving readiness, maintain proper insurance, and renew licenses to avoid accidents and liabilities. The initiative marks a foundational step toward a more organized, safer transport network on Koh Larn, especially important as tourism surges during weekends and holidays. Officials say the project will support sustainable tourism and improve Pattaya’s international image. Color-coded stickers roll out on Koh Larn, classifying over 3,500 vehicles to boost safety, traceability, and rental regulation. Pattaya officials push for fair fares and safety checks on Koh Larn as part of a sweeping transport reform campaign.   Unregulated rentals no more: Koh Larn gets a transport overhaul to protect tourists and reclaim public space.

Authorities caution that filing a false police report carries legal consequences, but if theft is proven, suspects will face full prosecution. PATTAYA, Thailand – An Indian national and jewelry store owner filed a complaint at Pattaya Police Station alleging theft of a gold necklace worth over 150,000 baht at 2:36 a.m. on August 5. The incident reportedly occurred at Soi Pattaya Beach 13/2. According to the complainant’s statement, he was approached by two transgender women dressed provocatively who engaged in suggestive behavior. After he refused their advances, the women allegedly persisted, hugging and fondling him. Shortly afterward, he noticed his 40-gram gold necklace was missing. The suspects reportedly fled the scene without a trace. Pattaya police promptly began investigations and issued a radio alert with the suspects’ descriptions. However, investigators expressed skepticism over the account, noting inconsistencies and contradictions in the testimony. Officers have been reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses in the area to verify the incident. Authorities have warned that if the claim is found to be fabricated, the complainant could face charges for filing a false police report. Conversely, if the theft is confirmed, the suspects will be pursued under the full force of the law. Police also advised the public—especially tourists—not to wear high-value jewelry or carry large amounts of cash when out at night in entertainment zones, to reduce the risk of becoming targets of theft.

Strong baht forces Pattaya to rethink tourist value, as rising currency lowers spending power and raises questions about who truly benefits the local economy. (Photo by Jetsada Homklin) PATTAYA, Thailand – As the Thai baht strengthens to around 32.30 per U.S. dollar, questions are rising over the value that tourists bring — not just in spending, but in behavior. In popular destinations like Pattaya, where disturbances involving some visitors have increasingly affected residents, many are now asking: is Thailand pricing itself too low, not in money, but in dignity? The current strong baht, driven by softening U.S. bond yields and renewed bets on a Federal Reserve rate cut, may be good news for importers — but not necessarily for tourism. With each baht now yielding fewer foreign currency units, tourists’ real purchasing power drops, forcing a new kind of reckoning: who’s actually contributing to the economy, and who’s just testing local patience? Locals in Pattaya report groups of tourists frequently renting powerful motorbikes and disregarding traffic laws late into the night. The concern goes beyond noise — it’s about why these behaviors persist with little visible enforcement. Some suggest that higher spending may afford certain visitors more leeway, while others believe enforcement gaps stem from broader challenges in managing diverse tourist groups. Meanwhile, as the baht strengthens and discerning travelers increasingly seek quieter, more orderly alternatives elsewhere in the region, the balance is shifting. “Tourists should be treated in line with what they contribute — both financially and through respectful conduct,” a resident noted. If Thailand continues to welcome all visitors without condition or differentiation, some worry it may risk losing those who value and respect the country’s culture and laws.