Community

20 Years of Friendship: Two Women Build a Dream Villa to Spend Their Retirement Together

Two Vietnamese women fulfilled their high school dream by jointly building a vacation villa in Dalat where they now spend their retirement years together after reconnecting in Ho Chi Minh City.

5 May Khaosod

A woman invested in building a villa to live with her best friend, sharing how they're fulfilling a childhood dream of spending their retirement years together.

Many people have expressed envy of their friendship when Vien Baby posted photos enjoying downtime with her closest friend Cha Mi Pham at the vacation home the two built together to realize a youthful dream.

According to reports, Vien Baby is the wife of a prominent hotel chain owner in Ho Chi Minh City. She frequently shares photos of dining, traveling, and spending time with this close friend, earning widespread online admiration for their bond.

She explained that their closeness stems from similar lifestyles. Both are married and live in Ho Chi Minh City, making it convenient to meet up, and they share similar tastes and interests in both hobbies and lifestyle.

In early 2026, Vien Baby went viral after revealing photos of a vacation home in Dalat that she and her best friend jointly built, leaving many amazed by their commitment and luxurious lifestyle.

She recounted: "When we were in high school, we dreamed that when we grew up we'd live together. But one day my friend told me she was getting married and moving to the South. When she went to the airport, we cried so hard. Later I got married and moved to follow her. Eventually we got to live close to each other again, and today we've made that dream come true."

The Dalat vacation home is now complete. Whenever they have free time or weekends, the two often spend time relaxing there, living simply—going to cafes, buying flowers to arrange, decorating the house, or just chilling at home in a slow-life style.

Vien Baby, also known as Dung Ngoc Vien, was a Top 8 finalist at Miss Teen 2008 before marrying a businessman in 2013. She gradually distanced herself from the entertainment industry to focus on family and business, but recently returned to public attention through appearances on a popular television show.

At 36 years old, Vien Baby lives a life many aspire to—balancing work, family, and love. She's also part of a friend group known as a "high-society girls" circle that has stayed close for over 10–20 years.

Meanwhile, Cha Mi Pham, though not an entertainment industry figure, has gained attention as Vien Baby's best friend. She originally hails from Hanoi before relocating to Ho Chi Minh City after marriage. She is currently a mother of three children and runs an online retail business.

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Tourism

Devastating Experience: Online Booking Turns Out to Be an Abandoned Resort with a Deserted Beach

A family's beach vacation turned to nightmare after booking an abandoned resort through an online platform in Ko Lanta, discovering the property had been deserted for months and the owner had fled the country.

5 May Khaosod

On May 5, 2569, TikTok user @ammie.6539 posted a warning video after booking accommodation to take her family on a beach vacation, only to discover an abandoned resort. She described it as the most disappointing travel experience of her life. She had booked through an online platform because she wanted her child to play in the sea, as other options were fully booked and this was the only alternative available. The property had positive reviews on Google Maps, so she decided to book it.

Upon arrival, she found the entrance extremely difficult to access—covered entirely in sand and overgrown with jungle vegetation, making it impossible to find the actual entry point. She eventually attempted entry through a neighboring resort's entrance. The neighboring resort owner informed her that the property she had booked belonged to a foreign national who had fled back to his country five months ago, and that many other guests had been similarly deceived.

Arriving at dusk, she felt uncomfortable venturing outside as the area seemed isolated and unsafe. The neighboring resort owner then offered her a bungalow for 500 baht per night, complete with a bathroom and air conditioning. She accepted the offer but was deeply disturbed to discover the room door was decorated with spirit amulets, sacred tattoo cloths, and various spiritual talismans.

After taking her child down to play in the water, she immediately gathered her belongings and left. She felt it was better to depart then rather than stay the night—she couldn't possibly sleep there. The beach was completely empty of people, and the whole situation was genuinely frightening, with fears about both the living and supernatural elements.

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National

Government Allocates 6 Billion Baht to Distribute Free Organic Fertilizer to Farmers Nationwide, Aims to Cut Production Costs

The Thai government plans to distribute 5-6 billion baht in free organic fertilizers to farmers nationwide this growing season, aiming to reduce production costs amid rising global chemical fertilizer prices and supply chain disruptions.

5 May Khaosod

Agriculture Minister Suriya Chungrungreangkit has announced that the ministry is preparing to request a central budget allocation of approximately 5,000-6,000 million baht to implement a program procuring organic fertilizers, biofertilizers, and bioproducts for free distribution to farmers during this growing season. The program targets comprehensive nationwide coverage across all regions and all major economic crops including rice, field crops, fruit trees, and other important agricultural products in each region.

This urgent measure aims to help reduce farmers' production costs amid ongoing global conflict and economic conditions impacting input prices, particularly chemical fertilizer prices in the world market which face risks of significant increases during the planting season.

Previous negotiations with Russia regarding fertilizer procurement received in-principle approval from the Russian Deputy Prime Minister. However, detailed examination revealed that delivery conditions could be delayed until approximately August, potentially missing the crucial window for Thai farmers' planting season.

Additionally, if delivery delays occur during the continued volatility of the conflict, global fertilizer prices could rise further, requiring consideration of supplementary support measures to prevent farmers from bearing increased costs during critical production periods.

The organic and biofertilizer distribution initiative aligns with the ministry's policy to reduce chemical fertilizer consumption and encourage farmers to transition to organic fertilizers, biofertilizers, and bioproducts to lower costs, restore soil quality, and mitigate long-term risks from chemical fertilizer price fluctuations.

The ministry will assign the Department of Agricultural Extension and related agencies to conduct detailed field surveys of fertilizer requirements in each province to ensure distribution corresponds with specific crop types and actual needs of each area, such as rice-growing areas, fruit orchards, or region-specific economic crops.

The initial budget allocation is expected to utilize central funds of approximately 5,000-6,000 million baht for this growing season in a comprehensive implementation covering not just rice but all other crops, ensuring farmers nationwide can access organic and biofertilizers widely.

"The approach is to distribute fertilizer free to farmers because currently our agricultural community is suffering from both the conflict situation and economic conditions driving up costs. The government must urgently implement direct assistance measures," the minister stated.

This measure is expected to be submitted to the government for consideration shortly. If approved, it will be one of the important packages for reducing agricultural costs this season and serve as the starting point for restructuring the country's fertilizer use from dependence on imported chemical fertilizers toward increased use of organic and biofertilizers long-term.

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National

Down to the Wire – Chatchai Still the Favorite in Bangkok Governor's Race

Incumbent Chatchai Sittiphan remains the frontrunner in Bangkok's governor race, with the People's Party's "Dr. Joe" emerging as his main challenger despite the full campaign yet to officially begin.

5 May Khaosod

The Bangkok governor's race is underway with candidates stepping into the spotlight, though the full campaign hasn't officially launched. Incumbent champion Chatchai Sittiphan hasn't formally declared, but his "Work Work Work Bangkok" initiative clearly telegraphs his intentions. His four-year performance and reputation as a hardworking governor remain formidable assets, and crucially, his ratings show no signs of decline. The People's Party has fielded Chaivatana Sathawrawit, known as "Dr. Joe," riding the wave of their party's dominance in Bangkok's 33 parliamentary constituencies. Their advantage lies in strong support from younger voters and the urban middle class, but the major challenge is converting party votes into personal votes—something difficult in a governor's race where voters prioritize working administrators over ideological politicians. The Democrat Party remains strategically patient, hoping to capitalize on Abhisit Vejjajiva's name recognition, but faces the reality that Bangkok's voter base is no longer as solid as before, and their party rebranding remains incomplete. For Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai, strategic withdrawal means not fielding candidates, having calculated that Bangkok isn't their stronghold and resources might be better spent on the national stage. The picture is becoming clearer: Chatchai holds advantages across all dimensions—reputation, performance, and broad public acceptance. Dr. Joe represents the one credible challenge, particularly given the People's Party's demonstrated ability to win Bangkok voters' hearts. Unless unexpected variables emerge or major missteps occur, Chatchai remains the betting favorite to retain his championship, with Dr. Joe as the top contender to watch. Other candidates, whether from the Democrat Party or independent hopefuls, have slim chances despite occasional possibility. Barring late-game surprises, this race's outcome seems unlikely to shift dramatically.

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National

Thailand to get first Pokémon Center at centralwOrld in 2026

Thailand will open its first official Pokémon Center at centralwOrld in Bangkok by 2026, becoming only the third permanent location outside Japan and the largest such store globally.

5 May Khaosod

BANGKOK — Thailand is set to welcome its first official Pokémon Center, with a new store planned at centralwOrld, marking a major expansion of the global franchise in Southeast Asia.

The project is a partnership between Pokémon (Thailand) Co., Ltd. and Central Pattana, which have signed a lease agreement for "Pokémon Center BANGKOK". The store is expected to open within 2026.

The Bangkok outlet will be the third permanent Pokémon Center outside Japan, following locations in Singapore and Taipei, and is expected to be the largest such store internationally.

Company representatives said the move reflects confidence in Thailand's growth potential, driven by a strong fan base and the country's role as a regional tourism hub.

The Pokémon Center is an official retail and experience space offering exclusive merchandise, trading card games and themed activities. It also serves as a hub for news and updates related to the franchise.

Shunsuke Sasaki, director of Pokémon (Thailand), said the opening marks a significant milestone for the company in Thailand.

"We are truly grateful to have the opportunity to open the first official Pokémon Center store in Thailand at centralwOrld," he said, adding that the location reflects the vibrant and high-traffic environment the brand was seeking.

Isareit Chirathivat of Central Pattana said the collaboration goes beyond retail, aiming to create a destination that attracts both Thai and international visitors.

The new store is expected to become a landmark attraction, contributing to tourism and reinforcing Bangkok's position as a global lifestyle destination.

Further details about Pokémon Center BANGKOK will be announced ahead of its opening.

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National

Major Media Report: Real Madrid Players Unhappy With Kylian Mbappe's Behavior, Growing Distance

Real Madrid teammates are reportedly distancing themselves from Kylian Mbappe over his self-centered behavior and special treatment, including incidents of disrespecting officials and arriving late to team events without consequences.

5 May Khaosod

Kylian Mbappe is facing a difficult time at Real Madrid following reports that teammates are keeping their distance due to displeasure with his behavior. According to sports media, the players of Spain's La Liga powerhouse Real Madrid have grown increasingly dissatisfied with French forward Kylian Mbappe's conduct. Reports indicate that Madrid's players disapprove of Mbappe's self-centered attitude both on and off the pitch, and the fact that he has received special privileges has led to widespread distancing from the French star. Examples of Mbappe's behavior that has upset teammates include showing disrespect to club officials during training sessions and arriving 40 minutes late to team lunch without facing any club sanctions. Meanwhile, reports on Mbappe's side suggest the player may be intentionally distancing himself from the club, with the 27-year-old forward seeking to maintain greater distance from coaching staff and the locker room, while also reportedly waiting for Real Madrid to part ways with current manager Carlo Ancelotti.

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National

AEY EV Motor Announces End of DEEPAL Electric Vehicle Dealership

AEY EV Motor has ended its dealership of DEEPAL electric vehicles, though its service center will continue offering maintenance and repairs for existing customers.

5 May Khaosod

May 5, 2026 – AEY EV Motor, a comprehensive showroom and service center for electric vehicles, has issued an official notice announcing the formal termination of its dealership and operations related to DEEPAL electric vehicles. DEEPAL customers are requested to contact the nearest DEEPAL service center directly to continue receiving after-sales service, warranty coverage, and claims processing. The company expresses gratitude to all customers for their trust and support. Although the dealership will cease selling DEEPAL electric vehicles, the service center will continue to provide regular maintenance and repair services, including paint and body work.

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National

Ben Apache Fulfills Indian Fan's Dream by Connecting Him with Rodtangs to Inspire

Influencer Ben Apache arranged a surprise video call between world-renowned Thai boxer Rodtang Jitmuangnon and an Indian fan working in the UK who idolizes him, fulfilling the man's lifelong dream to connect with his hero.

5 May Khaosod

Famous influencer Ben Apache shared a touching story about an Indian fan's deep admiration for Rodtang Jitmuangnon, a world-renowned Thai boxer beloved by fans everywhere.

Ben Apache arranged for Rodtang to speak with the Indian fan, resulting in an incredibly moving encounter. Ben Apache recounted: "I have a story to share. Yesterday I was eating at a restaurant near Chelsea Stadium. When I sat down, the staff asked if I was there to watch football. I said yes, and when taking my order, they asked where I was from. I told them Thailand, and they got really excited and shocked. They told me they're from India, working here to earn money, but their main life goal is to become a Muay Thai fighter. They're saving money here to support their dream. They said they were so happy I'm Thai because their idol is Rodtang. They showed me their phone full of Rodtang's photos.

I thought if they could actually talk to Rodtang, it would really fulfill their dream. So I called Rodtang to see if he had a moment. I wanted to do a video call so they could chat with someone who shares their passion for Rodtang. Rodtang simply replied, 'No problem, brother.'

When they came back to serve my food, I told them to wait—someone wanted to talk to them. I called Rodtang, and when he answered, I pointed the camera toward them. I can't even describe the atmosphere—they were so shocked and amazed. We kept the call brief, but I could hear them tell Rodtang how much they love him, asking him to keep fighting, promising to always support him. They said Rodtang would be their inspiration to pursue their own dreams. They asked me to take a screenshot and send it to them.

After hanging up, they hugged me and cried. I want to thank Rodtang so much for taking just a moment to give someone on the other side of the world the inspiration and strength to pursue their lifelong dream. They told me this was the best day of their life. Thank you, Rodtang."

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Weather

Meteorological Department Alert: Unstable Weather May 7-10, Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Expected, Tomorrow's Peak Downpour Reaching 60% Coverage

Thailand's Meteorological Department warns of unstable weather through May 10, with heavy rain and strong winds expected across the country, particularly in southern Thailand where downpours could reach 60% coverage tomorrow.

5 May Khaosod

On May 5, 2026, the Thai Meteorological Department forecasted weather conditions for the next 24 hours showing continued thunderstorms and strong gusts in northern Thailand due to a high-pressure system and cold air mass from China covering the northeast and South China Sea, combined with southerly and southeastern winds bringing moisture from the Gulf of Thailand and South China Sea. Residents are warned to avoid open areas, large trees, buildings, and weak structures during thunderstorms and strong winds. Farmers should reinforce fruit trees and prepare to protect crops and livestock from potential damage, while monitoring their health during changing weather conditions.

The southern region will experience increased rainfall with heavy downpours in some areas as an easterly wind stream covers the lower southern region. Residents in the south are cautioned about heavy rain dangers. Sea conditions in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea show waves around 1 meter high, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm areas. Fishermen should exercise extra caution and avoid thunderstorm zones. Northern Thailand currently shows light to moderate dust and haze accumulation due to scattered rainfall.

Weather forecast from 6 PM today to 6 PM tomorrow:

North: Hot daytime with heat waves in some areas, 40% chance of thunderstorms and strong gusts. Mainly Lampang, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Phichit, Phetchabun, and Tak provinces. Low 22-27°C, High 34-40°C. Southerly winds 5-15 km/h.

Northeast: Hot daytime with 30% chance of thunderstorms and strong gusts. Mainly Loei, Nongbualamphoo, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, and Surin provinces. Low 24-27°C, High 32-37°C. Easterly winds 10-20 km/h.

Central: Hot daytime with 30% chance of thunderstorms and strong gusts. Mainly Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Saraburi, Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon provinces. Low 23-26°C, High 37-39°C. Southerly winds 10-20 km/h.

East: Hot daytime with 40% chance of thunderstorms and strong gusts. Mainly Nakhon Nayok, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Sa Kaew, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Low 24-26°C, High 34-38°C. Southeastern winds 15-30 km/h. Sea waves around 1 meter, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.

South (Eastern Coast): Hot daytime with 60% chance of thunderstorms and heavy downpours in some areas. Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces. Low 23-25°C, High 33-37°C. Southeastern winds 15-30 km/h.

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National

Hudson Accepts Packed Thai National Team Schedule Throughout Year, Plans to Rotate Fresh Faces for Senior Squad

Thai national team coach Anthony Hudson will rotate young players into the senior squad during a packed 2026 schedule to give key players rest between multiple overlapping competitions and windows.

5 May Khaosod

Anthony Hudson, head coach of the Thai national team, acknowledges that the War Elephants will face a packed schedule with multiple overlapping competitions, requiring rotation of young players into the senior squad to give key players rest.

On May 5, the Football Association of Thailand held a coaching staff meeting at FA Thailand headquarters with representatives from both the senior national team and the U-23 squad to discuss preparation plans for FIFA international windows in June.

The meeting was led by Ekkapol Phlanabee, the FA's secretary general, alongside Hudson, Thavatchai Damrongtragkul (U-23 coach), and coaching staff. Hudson stated: "This meeting was very valuable. We discussed every aspect of the upcoming camps in June and competitions with potentially overlapping schedules, including long-term planning for U-23 Asian Games preparation."

"We must acknowledge there are quite a few competitions this year, especially outside FIFA international windows, so all parties needed to coordinate. Overall, the situation is heading in a positive direction regarding player selection and team preparation."

"We're trying to select the best young players to build a team alongside experienced senior players, creating a good training atmosphere. We'll split players across two teams for the next two national team windows, coinciding with club pre-season breaks."

"For players continuously engaged with their clubs, senior key players may get no rest. This period could be a good opportunity for them to recover while giving chances to players in good form at their clubs or promising young talents to integrate into the national team."

"The most important thing is allowing key players proper rest to maintain peak physical condition and possibly bringing in new striker talent to strengthen the squad for September-October preparations, when we'll select the best players for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia early next year."

The senior team has a June FIFA window with two warm-up matches before the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 in July, followed by FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 in September-October, the 52nd King's Cup in November, and AFC Asian Cup 2027 in Saudi Arabia in January-February 2027.

The U-23 team will have two warm-up matches during the June FIFA window to prepare for the Asian Games football tournament in Japan from September 19 to October 4.

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National

Kulwutti Takes on Young Japanese Star – Pornpawee Faces Indian Competitor in Thailand Open Badminton Championship

World number two Kulwutti Vititsanthan will face Japan's Yudai Okimoto in the first round of the Toyota Thailand Open 2026, a Super 500 badminton event scheduled for May 12-17 at Bangkok's Nimibutr Stadium. Pornpawee Chochuwong and other to

5 May Khaosod

The badminton tournament draw for the Toyota Thailand Open 2026, a Super 500 event scheduled for May 12-17 at the Nimibutr Stadium, has been officially released. Notable Thai competitors in men's singles include champion and world number two "View" Kulwutti Vititsanthan, who will face Japan's Yudai Okimoto (world rank 36) in the first round. "Ikkyu" Panichpol Teerarattanaskul (world rank 25) will have a rematch against Indonesia's Moh Saki Ubaidillah (world rank 39) from the Thailand Masters 2026 final. In women's singles, "May" Ratchanok Intanon (world rank 7) awaits her qualifier opponent, while "Meow" Pornpawee Chochuwong, the former runner-up and world number 8, will compete against India's Annati Huda (world rank 19). "Cream" Busanan Ungbampunpun (world rank 18) faces Singapore's Yang Zihao Min (world rank 33), and "May" Supanida Ketuong (world rank 15) will compete against fellow Thai "Pink" Pitchayamol Obasaniput (world rank 24). In men's doubles, "P" Piratpol Sukpundan and "Omo" Parkpol Teerarattanaskul (world rank 60) face France's Julien Maio and William Villejuger (world rank 67), while "Ott" Chalermpol Charoenkit and "Team" Vorapol Thongson (world rank 54) will meet China's Huang Di and Liu Yang (world rank 35). In women's doubles, "Boom" Thitipin Kliebyisun and "Hwa Hwa" Natthamon Likrasun (world rank 77) face Japan's Ruoyi Hirokamii and Sayaka Hobara (world rank 14), while "Bam" Atitaya Powannont and "Fah" Pichayamuth Pattarapissittisini await their qualifier opponents. "Tara" Pattarinda Iamwattareesakul and "Nam Wha" Sarisa Chanthapang will meet Hong Kong's Yung Hao Ting and Yung Puay Lam, while "Pat" Hataitip Michat and "Kasjang" Napaphorn Tungkhasathan await their qualifier opponents. In mixed doubles, "Bass" Dechapol Pavarananda and "Fame" Supisara Piewsamran (world rank 3) face Indonesia's Adnan Maulana and Indah Cahya Sari Jamil (world rank 18), "Mix" Ratchapol Marksetthasit and "Hwa Hwa" Natthamon Likrasun will meet Indonesia's Jafar Hidayatullah and Felicia Pasaribu (world rank 9), "Title" Rutsanaphak Uupthong and "Jen" Cheah Nichacha Sudchapraprarun (world rank 15) face Scotland's Alexander Dunn-Julia Macpherson (world rank 33), and "Omo" Parkpol Teerarattanaskul and "Pop Pop" Sapsiree Teeratchai (world rank 20) will meet China's Cheng Xing and Zhang Chi (world rank 13).

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