National

Thailand Ranks Asia's Top Retirement Destination Globally

Thailand ranked ninth globally and first in Asia for retirement destinations according to the Global Retirement Index 2026, with top scores for affordable living costs and quality healthcare that appeal to international retirees.

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BANGKOK — 1 July 2026, Thailand has been ranked the best country in Asia and ninth globally as a retirement destination in the Global Retirement Index 2026, according to the government, which said it will continue promoting the country as a leading destination for retirees from around the world.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Perisvivatana said on Wednesday that Thailand was ranked ninth worldwide and first in Asia by International Living, a leading US media outlet specializing in overseas living and retirement, receiving an overall score of 80.0 points.

The ranking evaluates seven key factors: housing, visas and retirement benefits, cost of living, development and governance, climate, healthcare, and overall lifestyle suitability. The assessment is based on input from experts, correspondents and expatriates living in each country.

The results reflect Thailand's potential as a global retirement destination, citing its quality of life, healthcare system and welcoming living environment.

Lalida said Thailand received its highest score in the cost-of-living category, earning 96 points, reflecting the value it offers relative to the quality of life provided. It was followed by 84 points for development and governance, demonstrating the country's readiness in infrastructure and public administration. Thailand also scored 79 points each for healthcare and retirement visas and benefits, highlighting its internationally recognized medical standards and policies that make the country an attractive destination for retirees from around the world.

The ranking aligns with the government's policy of elevating Thailand into a global Medical and Wellness Hub. The administration is moving forward with developing the medical and wellness industry while promoting wellness tourism, elderly care and high-value medical services.

It also pledged to improve healthcare services, strengthen infrastructure and create a supportive living environment for both Thai citizens and foreigners, while promoting the country as a regional centre for the health economy.

The government said it would continue efforts to position Thailand as a global retirement destination, with the aim of generating tourism and healthcare revenue, attracting investment and sustainably distributing economic opportunities to the public.

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Police

Worker Dies in Pattaya Host Bar Fire

A 28-year-old worker died after becoming trapped in a fire at an unlicensed host bar in Pattaya early July 1, with investigators finding the venue had no emergency exit and the blaze blocked the main escape route.

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PATTAYA — A 28-year-old employee was killed after becoming trapped in a fire that tore through an unlicensed host bar in Pattaya early on 1 July 2026, authorities said.

The Pattaya City Land Disaster Relief Radio Center received a report of the blaze at 00:16. The fire broke out at the Catwalk entertainment venue in Soi Chalerm Phrakiat 29, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province.

Police from Pattaya City Police Station, Bang Lamung district administrative officials, Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan rescue workers and firefighters were dispatched to the scene.

The fire engulfed the pub-style host bar, sending thick smoke billowing into the air. Firefighters deployed three fire engines to contain the blaze. A private groundwater delivery truck passing nearby also joined the effort by supplying water to help extinguish the flames.

It took firefighters more than 30 minutes to bring the fire under control.

Investigators found the fire had started near the venue's entrance. Inside, they discovered the body of Thanaphon Boonchan, 28, an employee of the bar. He was found dead beneath a table after apparently being unable to escape as the flames spread.

Somchai Nawacharoen, 63, the owner of the groundwater delivery truck, said he had been making a delivery to a nearby business when he spotted the fire and immediately reversed his vehicle to help firefighters by spraying water on the flames.

Other employees told police they received a phone call from a colleague who was inside the venue reporting the fire. They rushed to the scene, where a worker said the blaze appeared to begin near the roof before spreading toward the exit. Everyone attempted to flee, but the victim was not seen leaving and is believed to have been trapped inside.

A preliminary investigation found the entertainment venue was operating without a licence. Authorities also said the victim was unable to escape because the fire blocked the main exit, while the premises had no emergency exit.

The exact cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Forensic police will conduct a detailed examination to establish the origin of the blaze.

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Weather

Geology Department Warns 13 Provinces Of Landslide Risk

Thailand's Department of Mineral Resources warned 13 provinces of potential landslides and flash floods from July 1-3 due to heavy monsoon rains, with some areas already receiving over 100mm of rainfall in 24 hours.

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BANGKOK — Thailand's Department of Mineral Resources has warned of possible landslides and flash floods in 13 provinces over the next two to three days due to persistent heavy rain.

The Department's Geohazard Operations Center issued the alert, urging its volunteer monitoring network and residents in at-risk areas to remain vigilant between 1–3 July 2026.

The provinces under the warning are Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Tak, Nan, Phitsanulok, Chanthaburi, Trat, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi and Trang.

The department said a monsoon trough stretching across northern Thailand and the upper Northeast, combined with a strengthening southwest monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand, is expected to bring continued heavy rainfall.

Rainfall has already exceeded 100 millimetres in some areas over the past 24 hours, with flash floods beginning in several locations, increasing the risk of landslides.

Authorities have instructed geohazard monitoring volunteers to closely monitor rainfall, remain on alert, warn local communities of any landslide or flash flood threats, notify relevant agencies and follow established emergency response plans.

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Tourism

Casio Launches Pokémon G-SHOCK Watch Via Lottery

Casio launches a limited-edition Pokémon G-SHOCK watch in Japan via lottery to celebrate the franchise's 30th anniversary, priced at 33,000 yen with a transparent case, Poké Ball-themed subdial, and Pikachu-inspired hands. A Singapore relea

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Casio has opened lottery registration in Japan for a limited-edition G-SHOCK x Pokémon watch celebrating the franchise's 30th anniversary, bringing together two collector-heavy worlds: Pokémon nostalgia and one of G-SHOCK's most recognisable modern silhouettes.

The watch features a transparent case accented with colour details referencing the original Pokémon Red, Green and Blue games. Its strap is printed with illustrations of 30 Pokémon to commemorate the anniversary, while the subdial is designed as a Poké Ball and the hands are inspired by Pikachu's tail. Additionally, the case back is engraved with a 30th anniversary logo, and the watch comes in a Poké Ball-shaped box designed specifically for this release.

In addition to its themed design, the GA-110 retains the core features of the standard model, including G-SHOCK's shock-resistant construction, 200-metre water resistance, world time, a stopwatch, countdown timer, multiple alarms and an LED backlight.

The timepiece is priced at 33,000 yen (about 6,700 baht or US$202.72), excluding applicable taxes and shipping charges.

Casio says the lottery is not first-come, first-served, and applicants must register for a Casio ID and are limited to one entry each. The Japan lottery is limited to residents of Japan, and Casio warns that entries may be invalidated if they appear to involve false information, multiple accounts, forwarding services or resale purposes.

The collaboration continues Casio's long-running strategy of releasing special-edition G-SHOCK watches based on popular entertainment franchises, many of which have become sought-after collectibles in the secondary market.

A Thailand release has not been announced, but Singapore has been listed for a regional launch later in July. Thai collectors can monitor Casio Thailand and authorised G-SHOCK distributors for further updates.

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National

Thai Weightlifter Wirephol Receives Royal Award

Weightlifter Wirephol Wichumma received a royal award as Thailand's outstanding amateur male athlete for National Sports Day 2025, presented by General Surayut Chulanont on behalf of the King at Chitralada Palace.

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"Wave" Wirephol Wichumma, Thailand's national weightlifting team athlete, received the royal award from General Surayut Chulanont, Chairman of the Privy Council and representative of His Majesty the King, recognized as the outstanding amateur male athlete for National Sports Day 2025. His Majesty graciously appointed General Surayut Chulanont to receive the Tourism and Sports Minister and ten distinguished national athletes at Chitralada Palace's Dusit Hall to present royal trophies as inspiration and blessing for Thai sports.

Thailand's Sports Authority held the national outstanding athletes awards ceremony on February 9, 2025, at the Huamark Indoor Stadium to honor athletes and sports personnel with exceptional performance over the past year. Wirephol received the outstanding amateur male athlete award. Other recipients included: outstanding amateur female athlete Chudatip Kanthathong (Takraw), outstanding youth amateur male Suriyan Bunsorn (Athletics), outstanding youth amateur female Anymphat Phichit Preechasak (Badminton), outstanding professional male Muhammad Usmanmusa (Futsal), outstanding professional female Athaya Thitikhul (Golf), outstanding professional Muay Thai male Tosaporn Sripromma "Khun Suk Noi Grapao Ling Kee" (Muay Thai), outstanding professional Muay Thai female Arisara Nunniad "Mongkut Phet" (Muay Thai), outstanding male disabled athlete Phongsagorn Payoa (Wheelchair Racing), and outstanding female disabled athlete Saisunee Chana (Wheelchair Fandab).

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Police

Newborn Found Dead in Gas Station Restroom Trash Bin

A newborn boy was discovered dead in a trash bin at a gas station restroom in Rayong Province on July 1, with police reviewing surveillance footage to identify the suspect.

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A cleaning worker made a startling discovery when he found the body of a newborn boy wrapped in tissue and plastic stuffed in a trash bin in the women's restroom at a gas station. Police are urgently reviewing surveillance footage. On July 1, 2025, Sub-Lieutenant Nitithorn Saupvaradet, investigator at Pluak Daeng Police Station in Rayong Province, received a report of an infant's body found in the women's restroom at a gas station in Ban Saphan Si, Mabyangprom Subdistrict, Pluak Daeng District, Rayong Province. He notified his commanding officer and coordinated with the investigation team, on-duty physicians from Pluak Daeng Hospital, and rescue personnel to inspect the scene. Inside the women's restroom behind the gas station, officers found the body of a newborn male infant wrapped in tissue paper and plastic inside a trash bin. The body was intact and still had bloodstains on it, suggesting the child had just been born and died shortly after. The gas station cleaning worker stated that while performing routine restroom cleaning, he noticed something abnormal in the trash bin and opened it to check, discovering the infant's body with shock. He immediately notified his supervisor and contacted police. Preliminary investigation suggests the suspect may be a migrant worker or young woman who visited the station. Police are currently rushing to review CCTV footage inside the gas station and nearby areas to track down the suspect for questioning and legal proceedings.

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National

Thailand Expects September Peace Talks on Southern Border

Thailand's peace committee will meet in Malaysia next September to discuss stability along the southern border, with preliminary talks underway ahead of the full gathering.

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Government advisor Wan Muhammad Nor Matha announced that the full peace committee will convene in Malaysia in September to discuss southern border stability. The Prime Minister's July 9-10 visit to Malaysia, while primarily focused on ASEAN matters, may include discussions about the southern situation and requests for Malaysia to accelerate sustainable peace efforts. Preliminary sub-committee meetings will continue before the main committee gathering. Officials expect meaningful progress in September's talks, though they note that ongoing violence in the south continues to occur with considerable frequency, though fatalities remain relatively limited.

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Weather

Heavy Rain Floods Phuket, Water Levels Rising Dangerously

Heavy rain flooded multiple areas across Phuket on July 1, with the Bang Yai Canal rising over three meters above normal levels as authorities work to drain water around the clock.

2h ago Khaosod

At 4 a.m. on July 1, heavy to very heavy rain fell continuously across Phuket, triggering flooding in multiple areas including Patong Subdistrict, Kathu District, and various locations in Phuket City District. Floodwaters rose above road surfaces, making travel difficult for small vehicles and causing traffic congestion on several routes. Officials advised residents to avoid flooded areas and exercise caution while traveling.

The Bang Yai Canal, a major waterway spanning over 20 kilometers from Kathu District through the city center to Phuket Bay, has seen water levels surge more than three meters above normal, raising serious concerns about overflow and flooding in nearby areas.

Authorities are aggressively draining water to mitigate the impact of the heavy and continuous rainfall, with 24-hour monitoring underway.

The Meteorological Department has issued a warning for very heavy rainfall from July 1-3, noting that most of Thailand will experience heavy to very heavy rain in some areas, particularly the Eastern Region and the Andaman coast, due to monsoon troughs affecting the North and upper Northeast combined with monsoon winds.

Residents in at-risk areas are urged to remain vigilant against dangers from heavy rainfall, accumulated water, flash floods, and flash flooding, especially in hilly terrain, low-lying areas, and near waterways. The public is advised to closely monitor weather updates and official announcements.

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National

Thai Volleyball Star Phornprawin Ends Two-Year US League Run

Thai volleyball captain Phornprawin Gaetprachaya has departed Orlando Valkyriesafter winning the 2025 Pro Volleyball Federation championship and earning tournament MVP honors during her two-season stint in Major League Volleyball.

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Orlando Valkyriesof Major League Volleyball (MLV) have officially announced the departure of Phornprawin Gaetprachaya, captain and setter for the Thai national women's volleyball team, concluding her two-season stint in the US league.

Phornprawin, nicknamed "Chompoo," joined Valkyriesin 2024 and became instrumental in leading the Florida-based team to capture the Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF) championship in the 2025 season by defeating Indy Ignite 3-1 in the finals. She delivered exceptional performances with 37 assists and 12 digs, earning the prestigious MVP (Most Valuable Player) award.

The club recently announced on Facebook the parting ways with Phornprawin and over 10 other players following their two years at Adelphia Financial Arena, offering her well-wishes for future success. The statement read: "Thank you for your dedication, commitment, and the positive contributions you have made to this organization. We wish you success on your new path ahead," the Valkyriesposted.

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National

N3 Lottery Results for July 1, 2026

The Government Lottery Office held the N3 lottery drawing on July 1, 2026, at Don Muang Airport with results available across multiple prize categories including two-digit and three-digit prizes. Winners can claim prizes through the Pao Tan

2h ago Khaosod

On July 1, 2026, the Government Lottery Office held a drawing for N3 lottery tickets at the lottery drawing building at Don Muang Airport in Nonthaburi province. Players can check N3 results for all prize categories including two-digit exact, three-digit exact, three-digit any order, and special prizes.

The N3 lottery uses results derived from the six-digit government lottery drawing. Three-digit exact and three-digit any order prizes come from the last three digits of the first prize, while two-digit prizes come from the last two digits. Special prizes are randomly selected from three-digit exact winners only, drawn after each government lottery session concludes.

Winners will receive notifications through the Pao Tang mobile application and can claim prizes immediately through the app. A stamp duty of 1 baht per 200 baht of winnings (or fraction thereof) applies. Bank transfers incur no additional fees.

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National

Thailand Launches Phase 2 Budget Shopping at District Offices

Thailand's 'Thai Help Thai' program moves to Phase 2 with affordable shopping events at district offices every other Friday from July through September, following Phase 1's success that generated 135 million baht in sales and saved resident

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The Commerce Ministry, in collaboration with the Interior Ministry, is advancing Phase 2 of the 'Thai Help Thai' program at district offices across Thailand to ease the cost of living burden on citizens following the first phase's success. Commerce Ministry Business Development Department Director General Poonpong Nayanapikarun announced the launch, with Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Suthirthamphand and Deputy Interior Minister Polapir Suwannachuea jointly approving the continuation to ease living costs and stimulate the grassroots economy.

The Phase 1 events, held five times nationwide beginning May 1, 2025, offered affordable consumer goods every Friday throughout May at 878 district offices nationwide. The program proved highly successful, generating 135.40 million baht in sales through 51,491 participating shops and attracting over 1.08 million shoppers, while saving residents 29.62 million baht in expenses. Best-selling items included cooking oil, chicken and duck eggs, laundry products, fabric softeners, and sugar.

Following Phase 1's success, Phase 2 will continue with shopping events on 'every other Friday' from July through September 2025. The Commerce Ministry has partnered with leading retailers including Makro, Lotus's, Big C, Tops, GO Wholesale, and CJ MORE to offer house brands and promotional items at special prices from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at district offices. The seven scheduled shopping days are: July 3, 17, and 31; August 14 and 28; and September 11 and 25, 2025.

Beyond reducing household expenses, the program supports local entrepreneurs and small-medium enterprises with increased sales and income opportunities. The initiative invites citizens to purchase quality goods at affordable prices at their nearest district office and thanks the Department of Local Administration and all district officers for their support in Phase 1 and Phase 2, beginning Friday, July 3, 2025.

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