Travel

No Malaysians were reported affected by more than 50 violent incidents across Thailand’s southern provinces on Saturday night, Kelantan Police said. Malaysians have been advised to postpone non-essential travel to affected areas and remain vigilant. The incidents included bombings, arson attacks and tyre burnings across three border provinces.

Tourists visiting Chiang Mai were swept away by a sudden flash flood after reportedly entering a restricted area to take selfies. Video footage captured the frightening moment rushing water overwhelmed the group. The incident highlights the dangers of entering prohibited areas, particularly near waterways during Thailand’s rainy season and unpredictable weather conditions.

A 35-year-old Israeli tourist was found dead in his Bangkok hotel room while vacationing in Thailand, according to ZAKA. The married father of one was discovered unresponsive, prompting coordination between ZAKA, Thai authorities, Chabad representatives and Israel’s Foreign Ministry to arrange the repatriation of his body to Israel.

Pattaya has begun a major upgrade of Second Road, covering sections from Wat Chai intersection through Central Pattaya to Dolphin Roundabout. Construction is expected to take around 90 days, bringing lane restrictions and congestion. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time, follow traffic signs and consider alternative routes.

Looking beyond Europe’s overcrowded hotspots? Ten underrated destinations offer compelling alternatives in 2026—from Roman ruins and beaches in Terracina to wild horses in Livno and Portugal’s untouched Gerês. The selection spans historic cities, Adriatic escapes, Alpine landscapes and culturally rich destinations still largely outside mass-tourism routes.

Penfolds is celebrating 75 years of Grange, the wine that transformed Australian winemaking. Chief Winemaker Peter Gago, only the fourth person to hold the position in the winery’s 182-year history, reflected in Bangkok on custodianship, patience and preserving a legacy across generations.

Tomorrowland is preparing for its first Asian edition in Thailand from December 11–13, 2026, at Wisdom Valley near Pattaya. Ahead of the event, the Tourism Authority of Thailand showcased Thai culture, cuisine, wellness and performances to festivalgoers at Tomorrowland Belgium through its Amazing Thailand Sanctuary.

Thailand is considering a new fee for foreign visitors, with revenue intended for tourism infrastructure, visitor safety and environmental restoration. However, the proposal is not yet final: authorities have not announced the fee amount, collection method or implementation date. A separate domestic tourism subsidy is planned for September.

Thailand is banking on 30-day visa-free stays to attract more Indian visitors, particularly destination wedding and celebration groups. Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said a proposed 15-day stay would have been too short. Thailand expects 2.55 million Indian arrivals in 2026 and targets a record 2.7 million in 2027.

The European Union has delayed the rollout of ETIAS again, leaving no confirmed launch date for the travel authorisation required for visa-exempt visitors. The EU says ETIAS is not currently operational and applications are not being accepted. Travellers should not pay websites claiming to process ETIAS applications.