Thailand and Timor-Leste announce visa waiver for tourists

During the visit of Timor-Leste’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation to Thailand on June 20-21, 2024, the two countries agreed on a visa waiver for their citizens, allowing visa-free travel for up to 30 days. The initiative aims to promote tourism and strengthen bilateral ties in various fields, including economy, society, culture and people-to-people ties.

Additionally, the visa waiver is an important step towards Timor-Leste’s potential entry into ASEAN, with observer status granted as part of the roadmap towards becoming the 11th ASEAN member in 2022.

Search for Chiang Rai and Thailand's top secondary cities this rainy season

Digital travel platform Agoda has released data on the top five most searched secondary cities in Thailand at the start of the rainy season. Known for their charm and lesser-known status, these cities have generated a lot of interest among international travellers. Topping the list is Chiang Rai, followed by Udon Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Chanthaburi and Trang.

Among Thai travellers, the most searched secondary cities include Chanthaburi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Nakhon Nayok, Ratchaburi and Chiang Rai. Agoda's data also reveals a 23% increase in searches compared to last year, reflecting growing interest in these destinations.

This trend highlights the government's efforts to promote tourism in all provinces, positioning Thailand as a year-round destination with appeal beyond the traditional high season.

Explore the Royal Barges and Sailing Training

 

 Explore the Royal Barges and Sailing Training: Celebrating His Majesty King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday

The Royal Thai Navy invites everyone to view the majestic royal barges used to celebrate His Majesty King Vajiralongkorn's sixth-cycle birthday anniversary. Three of these fifty-two royal barges—Suphanhong, Narai Song Suban HM Rama IX, and Anantanakkharat—will be on display at Racha Woradit Pier in Bangkok. An exhibition honoring His Majesty the King will accompany the barges on display from July 27 to 29, 2024.

Additionally, visitors can view four royal barges and four animal figure barges at the Royal Barge National Museum. The public is also welcome to observe sailing training sessions at the Naval Transport Department until July 2, which are held from 09:00 to 16:00 on official business days.

Phoenix Food Market: Bangkok's New Culinary Hub

A new food wholesale market has recently opened in Bangkok to establish Thailand as a global culinary hub. Prime Minister Satat presided over the opening of the Phoenix Food Market in Pratunam, emphasizing its role in creating new opportunities and boosting Thailand's tourism.

Located in the heart of Bangkok's bustling city, Phoenix Food Market specializes in offering a wide range of delicious cuisine and wholesale food options. It aims to attract sellers and buyers from the global food industry, thereby establishing Thailand as a leading destination for culinary experiences.

Aligned with the government's Ignite Thailand vision, this market promotes knowledge exchange and commercial opportunities. It also serves as a new tourist attraction, using Thai cuisine as a cultural asset to further the "Thai Kitchen to the World" campaign.

To celebrate its opening and Bangkok's 242nd anniversary, the Phoenix Food Market is hosting special activities aimed at promoting tourism and stimulating the national economy. These events will continue until Sunday, giving visitors the opportunity to taste Bangkok's vibrant food and cultural richness.

Box jellyfish warning in Krabi: Safety tips for tourists

Krabi's national park authorities issued an urgent warning after three tourists were stung by box jellyfish near Bamboo Island in the Phi Phi archipelago. Fortunately, all injured tourists received treatment and are now recovering.

Warning signs have been put up in Had Nopparat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, advising tourists and marine activity participants to be cautious. The affected areas include Bamboo Island, Ao Nang, Muang Krabi and other popular marine locations.

National park chief Yutthapong Damsrisuk stressed the highly venomous nature of box jellyfish. Their stings cause great pain and can affect the skin, nervous system and heart, potentially leading to death.

Following the incident, where tourists were immediately rushed to Phi Phi Hospital by tour operators, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) advised on immediate action to be taken if stung by a box jellyfish. It is important to scrape off the tentacles with a hard object, avoid direct contact and apply vinegar for at least 30 seconds. Avoid using freshwater, as this can make the spread of the venom worse.

Box jellyfish are common in Thai waters, especially in Krabi, Phuket and the southern provinces. Their transparent bodies and long tentacles make them easily recognisable, but their venom is one of the most powerful in nature, causing rapid death if left untreated.

Tourists are urged to be cautious, wear protective clothing when swimming and keep vinegar readily available to minimise the risk of box jellyfish stings.

Sustaining Hallyu Tourism: Steps for Long-Term Success

Korea has greatly benefited from the global phenomenon known as “Hallyu,” or the Korean Wave. The rise in popularity of K-pop and Korean dramas has made Korea a favorite destination for tourists from around the world.

The influence of K-pop groups like BTS and BLACKPINK in furthering Korea’s flourishing tourism industry cannot be underestimated. These global stars have inadvertently become ambassadors promoting Korea’s attractiveness to a global audience.

Despite their successes, Korea’s tourism sector contributes 4.3 percent to its economy, which is lower than many European countries like the UK and Germany, where tourism plays a larger economic role.

As Korea’s tourism sector continues to grow, driven primarily by Hallyu’s international fan base, policymakers are faced with strategic challenges. They must carefully consider how these developments affect the country and formulate plans to grow the tourism industry further.

Being part of a fan group is a collective effort driven by passion. While this collective action fosters loyal followers who love Korean culture and eagerly explore it, it also carries risks. When discontent grows, collective action such as boycotts can occur, potentially causing harm to companies or individuals. 

Recently, the Boycott Korea movement spearheaded on social media by disgruntled Thai tourists has highlighted such concerns. Some tourists denied entry to Korea criticised the immigration process as being overly strict, leading others to reconsider Korea as a tourist destination in favour of countries such as China and Vietnam. The Korea Tourism Organization reports a significant 21 percent drop in Thai tourist arrivals from January to April compared to the previous year, while total inbound tourists increased by an overall 87 percent during the same period. Immigration officers play a key role in screening visitors to protect Korea's borders from criminal elements and potential security threats.

 It is unfair to criticise these officials for Thailand's tourism decline, but it does underscore the need for policymakers to effectively address grievances. To sustain the Hallyu-driven tourism boom, the government has recently introduced measures to streamline the entry process, enhance visa issuing capabilities and extend tourist visa durations. However, more comprehensive strategies are needed to ensure long-term sustainability and effectively manage potential backlash, such as the anti-Korea campaign in Thailand.

Without proactive measures, Korea risks losing the momentum gained from Hallyu's impact on tourism, threatening its hard-earned status as a global tourist hotspot.

In-flight theft: Chinese man sentenced for stealing $120,000 in cash

A 54-year-old Chinese man has been sentenced to two years and six months in prison for stealing a total of 120,000 Singapore dollars (US$88,700) in cash from a jeweller during a flight from Hong Kong to Singapore.

Peng Hui pleaded guilty last Friday to four charges, including theft, carrying more than 20,000 Singapore dollars in cash into Singapore without reporting, converting some of the stolen cash into casino chips and trying to send the money to China, reports Channel News Asia.

According to the report, Peng boarded Singapore Airlines flight SQ899 on March 5, where he noticed the victim had a large amount of cash and had left his unsecured bag in the overhead compartment. While the victim was asleep during the flight, Peng stole the money from the victim's bag.

Upon arrival at Changi Airport, the victim discovered the cash was missing from his bag when he passed through the immigration checkpoint and immediately reported the incident to the local police. Following a police investigation, Peng was arrested the following day after reviewing flight records and security footage.

During court proceedings, Peng pleaded for leniency, citing his age, health problems including diabetes and having only one kidney, and expressed remorse for damaging Singapore's tourism reputation.

Exploring Czechia: Insights on Visa-Free Travel and Tourism

Tucked away in Central Europe, the Czech Republic offers visa-free travel to 61 countries, making it accessible and attractive to global tourists. Renowned as Europe's second-best city for art and galleries, Prague stands out among its peers with its rich cultural offerings. The country's unique glamping experiences combine natural beauty with luxurious camping facilities, providing a quiet escape from urban life while ensuring modern comforts.

Visa-Free Travel to Czechia

Travelers from 61 countries, including the United States, Japan, and Singapore, enjoy visa-free access to explore the Czech Republic's historical and cultural treasures. Iconic landmarks such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Jewish Quarter are essential stops for visitors looking to get a glimpse of Czechia's rich heritage.

Tourism Recovery (2022-2023)

Following the pandemic, the Czech Republic experienced a remarkable recovery in tourism. In 2022, the country welcomed 22.1 million tourists, with a significant increase in the number of visitors staying in accommodation facilities. The positive trend continued in 2023, with tourist arrivals increasing by 33% year-on-year during the first quarter.

Key Highlights

- Top Sources of Foreign Tourists: Germany, Slovakia and Poland led the inflow of foreign visitors in 2023.

- Digital Transformation:** The introduction of the electronic visa system streamlined visa applications, increasing efficiency for both travelers and embassies.

- Future Developments: Czechia plans to integrate AI into tourism portals and celebrate the Year of Czech Music in 2024 to attract more international travelers.

Economic Impact and Infrastructure

Tourism contributes significantly to the Czech economy, creating jobs and stimulating sectors such as hospitality and transportation. The country's vibrant hospitality sector recorded a rise in overnight stays and high occupancy rates in 2023, highlighting its appeal to global travelers.

Best Things to Do

Discover the historic center of Prague, discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cesky Krumlov, relax in Karlovy Vary's renowned spas, hike in Bohemian Switzerland National Park and visit the historic silver mines of Kutna Hora. These experiences showcase Czechia's diversity and cultural richness beyond its famous landmarks.

Arts and Culture

Beyond Prague's major galleries, Czechia boasts hidden art gems in unconventional locations across the country. From majestic historic sites to innovative modern spaces, art enthusiasts can explore a diverse art scene during their trip.

China's visa-free policy boosts Southeast Asian tourism

Tourists from Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand are at the forefront of traveling to China under China's visa-free policy, reflecting Beijing's commitment to global openness amid international tensions.

He Quan, a private driver in Yunnan, has noticed a shift in his clientele since China eased its travel restrictions. Previously serving only domestic travelers, he now serves Chinese-speaking tourists from Southeast Asia, especially Singapore and Malaysia, boosting his income and expanding his customer base.

China's move to extend visa exemptions has streamlined travel procedures to a great extent, attracting visitors from nearby Southeast Asian countries. This strategic initiative not only supports the post-pandemic economic recovery but also enhances China's soft power diplomacy amid geopolitical challenges.

Professor Sam Huang, an expert on China tourism, said inbound tourism serves as an important route to showcase China's development to the world amid global uncertainties. He highlighted that short-haul travel from Southeast Asia is affordable and attracts budget-conscious travellers post-pandemic.

Yunnan, with its beautiful landscapes and proximity benefits, has emerged as a top destination for Southeast Asian tourists such as Tan Ziteng from Malaysia. His recent visit for a wedding photoshoot underlines the region's attractiveness and the growing appeal of longer itineraries within China.

The rise in the number of Southeast Asian visitors has also boosted local businesses, with Yunnan's hotels seeing increased occupancy and tour operators showing growing interest in extended travel packages.

While China's visa-free policies have boosted tourism, challenges such as language barriers and logistical issues remain. Despite this, the consensus among travelers and experts is that China’s efforts to attract international visitors are an integral part of its economic strategy and global diplomacy.

Thailand sees surge in Portuguese tourist arrivals

Thailand sees surge in Portuguese tourist arrivals, aims to surpass pre-pandemic numbers

Thailand is witnessing a significant increase in the number of visitors from Portugal, with a 44% increase recorded between January and April this year.

Nanthasiri Ronasiri, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for Southern Europe, aims to surpass the pre-pandemic figure of 52,000 Portuguese tourists this year. She highlighted that the increase in the first four months indicates Thailand's recovery and return to normality after the pandemic.

"We have implemented various initiatives to attract Portuguese visitors, including the launch of 'Famtrip' earlier this year and collaborations with Portuguese tour operators. Although Portugal knows Thailand well, our goal is to continue this growing trend," Ronasiri commented during the opening of the Thailand Festival in Lisbon. Rosario Louro, TAT representative in Portugal, pointed out that in 2019, Thailand received 52,000 Portuguese tourists, which dropped to 42,000 in 2023 due to the pandemic, but now the number is increasing again.

"Despite Portugal being one of the last markets to resume travel to Thailand after the pandemic, Portugal has shown stronger growth to Thailand than most European countries," Louro pointed out.

He stressed that Thailand is currently a safe destination, attracting Portuguese and European travellers looking for stability amid global uncertainties.

Vietnam's tourism ambitions depend on visa policy changes

Vietnam aims to welcome 25-28 million tourists next year, with industry experts suggesting that the target, while ambitious, is achievable if urgent issues such as visa policies are addressed promptly.

This year, Vietnam aims to equal pre-pandemic levels by welcoming 18 million foreign arrivals, with hopes of achieving similar figures to Thailand's tourism numbers in 2023.

Hoang Nhan Chinh of the Vietnam Tourism Advisory Board noted signs of positive growth in the first five months of 2024, with nearly 7.6 million visitors between January and March.

Despite ranking third in ASEAN for international visitors in the first quarter, Vietnam continues to face challenges in visa policies and tourism infrastructure. Analysts stress the need for timely policy adjustments to enhance competitiveness and overcome existing bottlenecks.

Pham Hai Quynh, director of the Asian Tourism Development Institute, described the target of 25–28 million visitors as challenging, but possible with current efforts to revive the tourism sector. Pham Ha, CEO of Lux Group, highlighted obstacles such as bureaucratic visa procedures and service sector limitations, and stressed the importance of addressing these issues to attract high-spending tourists. Expanding visa exemptions to more countries and increasing direct flight connections are proposed strategies to achieve Vietnam's tourism goals. Industry experts advocate upgrading major airports such as Noi Bai and Tan Son Nhat to accommodate growing international traffic. Achieving sustainable growth depends on attracting tourists who make significant contributions to the economy through spending, as opposed to budget-conscious travelers who may not maximize economic benefits.
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Thailand tourism targets record Indian arrivals with visa-free policy

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has revised its target for Indian tourists this year to 2.3-2.4 million due to the visa-free policy. The initiative allows Indian nationals to stay visa-free for 60 days under a waiver programme covering 93 countries until November 2024.

The increased target is to support Thailand's ambitious plan to attract 36.7 million tourists, generating 3.5 trillion baht in revenue.

There has been speculation about a reciprocal visa waiver for Thai tourists visiting India, although it has not been confirmed. This potential move could further boost travel demand between the two countries.

TAT plans to engage Indian travellers through roadshows in cities such as Lucknow, Chandigarh, Bangalore and Ahmedabad in August, focusing on small families and friend groups interested in Thailand's recreational activities. Indian tourists have shown an increase in spending this year, with an average of 40,000 Baht per trip.

Flight connections between Thailand and India have increased by 80% compared to pre-pandemic levels, supported by increased seat capacity since November. Indian tourists, a top market for destinations such as Phuket, visit Thailand for a variety of reasons including meetings, weddings and leisure.

Singapore Ranked as Most Expensive City for the Wealthy

Singapore has been ranked as the most expensive city to live in for high-net-worth individuals, according to a report by Swiss bank Julius Baer. This is the second consecutive year that Singapore has held the title, with the ultra-wealthy flocking to the city thanks to its stable political and economic environment and pro-business policies, reports the South China Morning Post. The Global Wealth and Lifestyle Report 2024 by Julius Baer, ​​released on Tuesday, aims to provide a better understanding of the global cost of living.

The rankings are determined by the bank's Lifestyle Index, which examines the cost of 20 premium goods and services typically purchased by individuals with more than US$1 million in investable assets in 25 cities around the world. In Singapore, nearly half of these items are among the top five most expensive globally, The Business Times noted.

Notably, Singapore has the highest cost of car ownership and the second most expensive private healthcare in the world. Despite these high costs, it remains an attractive place to live and work due to its stable politics, excellent healthcare, low crime rate, efficient public transport, and strong currency.

 According to the report, this year, the global cost of living is set to increase by 4% in US dollar terms, a slower increase than the 6% increase in 2023. Asia ranks as the second most expensive region after Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, which are grouped as one region by the Swiss bank.

Other cities in the top 10 this year are Hong Kong (#2), London (#3), Shanghai (#4), Monaco (#5), Zurich (#6), New York (#7), Paris (#8), Sao Paulo (#9), and Milan (#10).

Possible fines for non-payment of Bali tourism tax: policy review underway

Bali's Acting Governor Sang Made Mahendra Jaya has announced that he is considering imposing fines on tourists who fail to pay the Bali tourism tax levy.

This mandatory fee of IDR 150,000 per person applies to all international visitors coming to Bali. However, Governor Jaya and the Bali Tourism Office are facing difficulties in ensuring compliance, as data shows that more than 60% of eligible tourists are not paying the levy. Some tourists deliberately avoid the fee, while others are unaware of its existence.

This tax was implemented on February 14, 2024, but despite extensive marketing efforts and collaboration with travel agents and the hospitality sector, many tourists remain unaware of this requirement. The Bali Tourism Office conducts spot checks twice a month at popular cultural sites, and asks tourists without a QR-code voucher to pay the tax immediately.

Although there are currently no fines or legal consequences for non-payment, Governor Jaya believes there should be harsher penalties for tax evaders. He has mentioned the possibility of introducing minor criminal penalties for violators. Policy reviews are underway, with discussions being held on potentially raising the fee to US$50 per person.

Governor Jaya has not elaborated on what these criminal penalties would include. Currently, tourists must pay the fee before leaving the country, allowing them to claim they have not yet paid if they do not have a QR-code voucher. To introduce legal penalties, policy and supporting legislation would need to be updated.

Since the implementation of the tax, it has generated over US$7.1 million despite only 40% of tourists contributing to the tax. This revenue provides a significant income for the Bali provincial government.

 The annual budget, to be released at the end of the year, will allocate funds to projects aimed at nurturing nature, preserving culture, and improving tourism infrastructure.

Governor Jaya's proposal to introduce criminal penalties is supported by I Gusti Ngurah Rai Suryawijaya, vice president of PHRI Badung. He advocates for a better QR-code inspection system and easier payment methods for tourists before they arrive in Bali. Suryawijaya emphasizes the need for cooperation with the government and international representatives to facilitate these changes.

Pattaya cleans Bali Hai Pier after PM's visit

 

Following Prime Minister Sritha Thawisin's order, the city of Pattaya deployed a large team from the Department of Resources and Environment and related agencies to clean the Bali Hai Pier on June 26.

The extensive cleaning operation was carried out following Prime Minister Sritha Thawisin's visit to Pattaya on June 22 to address tourism issues.
During his visit, he instructed local officials to remove overhead power and communication lines and improve the cleanliness of the Bali Hai Pier.

Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai supervised the cleaning process along with the heads of the city's Construction and Maintenance Department, Botany Department and other officials. They focused on clearing debris and arranging cables and wires, according to Mr Manoch, the work is expected to be completed in 3-4 days.

Additionally, Mr Manoch announced that dead trees around the pier will be replaced. Botany officials are currently selecting 20 new trees for planting, a project Completion is expected within 2-3 months.

Pattaya News also mentioned that the long-abandoned waterfront condos embroiled in legal issues were not addressed during the PM's visit.

Cambodia: The New Electronic Arrival Card Explained

Key points
- Starting July 1, 2024, all foreign visitors to Cambodia must fill out an online electronic arrival card.
- Travelers must register and submit their application at least seven days before their arrival in Cambodia.
- The Cambodia e-Arrival (CeA) document will be available to download on the iOS App Store and Google Play Store. Check here: https://www.arrival.gov.kh/

Starting July 1, 2024, all visitors to Cambodia must present an electronic arrival card at least seven days before their schedule departure in the country. This new digital entry card, called CeA or "Cambodia e-Arrival", aims to simplify the entry process, replacing traditional paper forms for immigration, health and customs with a single online application.

Travelers can access the CeA through the official government website or the Cambodia e-Arrival app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Currently, this process is required for those flying into Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports, while passengers arriving via land, boat or Sihanoukville airport will still use the paper form.

Even if passengers miss the online submission deadline, they can complete the e-arrival process using tablets at Siem Reap and Phnom Penh airports. Obtaining an electronic visa on arrival (e-VOA) through this platform can further speed up the entry process, with a tourist visa costing $30. Once the process is complete, a QR code will be issued, which can be presented to immigration officials in printed form or electronically.

The Cambodia e-arrival card was introduced on January 1, 2024, as part of a trial to ease entry into the country for both tourists and citizens. According to the Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia welcomed 4.4 million international tourists in the first ten months of last year, a significant increase from 1.57 million in 2022. From January to October 2023, more than four million foreign tourists visited Cambodia, with the majority of visitors coming from Thailand, Vietnam and China, accounting for 63.1% of all foreign arrivals.

Thailand implements VAT collection on imported goods

Thailand's Ministry of Finance has introduced a new policy from July 5 to December 31, 2024 for collecting value-added tax (VAT) on imported goods. The measure aims to create a fair market environment by ensuring that foreign and domestic sellers face the same tax responsibilities.

The Royal Thai Government Gazette published this declaration on June 24. It focuses on exempting customs duties for goods valued at 1,500 baht or less, aligning with international standards for customs duty exemptions.

The policy addresses three main points based on the Customs Tariff Act of 1987:

1. Imported goods valued between one baht and 1,500 baht (including shipping and insurance) will be exempt from customs duties.

2. Importers must follow specific procedures outlined by the Director-General of the Customs Department.

3. This policy will take effect 15 days after publication in the gazette and will remain valid until December 31, 2024.

Initially, the Customs Department will manage VAT collection for goods valued at less than 1,500 baht and transfer it to the Revenue Department, similar to procedures for higher-value goods. Future plans include amending the Revenue Code and collaborating with online retail platforms to collect and remit VAT directly.

This initiative aims to ensure fairness in tax compliance across all vendors and generate revenue to support national services and infrastructure projects. While importers will face stricter customs procedures, consumers may face slightly higher prices due to the additional VAT on imported goods.

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Cooking on a budget in Thailand: Tips for delicious meals

Thailand is famous for its vibrant street food and diverse cuisine, offering many options that won't break the bank. Whether you're a backpacker, an expat or just looking to save money, here's how to enjoy eating affordable home-cooked meals in Thailand.

Exploring the local markets

Local markets are the heart of Thai cuisine, with fresh produce, meats, seafood and spices available at prices even lower than supermarkets.

Ya Tor Kor Market (Bangkok): Known for quality produce including fruits, vegetables, seafood and meats.

Warorot Market (Chiang Mai): Offers fresh produce, local snacks and a wide variety of spices and dry goods.

Talad Rot Fai (Bangkok): Not just for shopping but also for a cultural experience, with unique ingredients and local snacks.

Seasonal Food

Take advantage of Thailand's tropical climate by buying seasonal fruits and vegetables. This preserves freshness and saves money.

Mangoes: Best from March to June, perfect for making mango sticky rice.

Lychees and Rambutans: Available from May to August, great for snacking or tossing into salads.

Durian: Peak season from April to August, a unique Thai delicacy.

Mastering Thai Cuisine

Learn basic Thai recipes to make the most of local ingredients:

Pad Thai: A stir-fried noodle dish with eggs, tofu, peanuts and lemon.

Som Tum (Papaya Salad): Spicy salad with sliced ​​green papaya, tomatoes and peanuts.

Khao Pad (Fried Rice): Simple dish with rice, vegetables and protein.

Affordable Protein Sources

Cheap protein options in Thailand include eggs, tofu, and chicken, which are versatile and widely used in Thai cooking.

Buying in Bulk

Save money by buying staples like rice, noodles, and sauces in bulk from local markets.

Street Food Techniques

Employ street food vendor techniques like batch cooking and reducing waste to save time and energy.

Growing Herbs

Grow Thai basil, coriander, and mint at home to add fresh and affordable ingredients to your dishes.

Cooking Classes

Invest in local cooking classes to learn techniques, ingredient substitutions, and cultural insights into Thai cuisine.

Avoid Imported Goods

Use local snacks, spices, and produce to save money and enjoy fresh ingredients.

Using public transportation

Use Bangkok's BTS Skytrain, MRT subway and buses for economical and efficient travel to markets.

Cooking on a budget in Thailand is not only practical but also a delicious journey through Thai cuisine. Embrace the local markets, seasonal produce and street food techniques and enjoy delicious meals without spending a lot. Happy cooking!

Passport office shift eases traffic woes on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg

In a significant move for professionals working on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, including media houses, the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) at Herald House in ITO has moved to Videocon Tower in Jhandewalan. The new PSK will start functioning from June 24.

Past traffic challenges

The decision to house the PSK at Herald House led to major traffic problems, as the area was plagued by illegal parking. Vehicles were often parked in a haphazard manner, blocking legitimate parking spaces for office-goers. The resulting congestion turned a one-way street into a two-way one, leading to daily chaos.

Unforeseen consequences

These problems arose due to the lack of proper parking infrastructure assessment before the PSK was opened. It is unclear how the necessary clearances for the location were obtained.

Impact on local businesses

Several shops and vendors started operating in the narrow lane near the PSK, complicating traffic flow even further. This shifting means that these businesses, though financially impacted, will have to find new locations. Similarly, parking operators, despite losing revenue, contributed to the chaotic conditions on the road.

Details of the new location

The new PSK office is now located on the ground floor of Videocon Tower in Jhandewalan, as indicated on the passport department's website. Visitors are advised to note the new address for their appointments.

Conclusion

Though Tata Consultancy Services, which manages PSK operations, and traffic officials have not commented on the move, the change is expected to relieve the traffic problems already prevailing on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg.

Enhancing connectivity: New train and bus services between India and Bangladesh

On Saturday, India and Bangladesh revealed new transportation links: a train route between Rajshahi and Kolkata and a bus route between Chittagong and Kolkata.

New transport links

- Rajshahi-Kolkata train service: A passenger train will soon run between Rajshahi in Bangladesh and Kolkata in India.

- Chittagong-Kolkata bus service: A new bus route will connect Chittagong in Bangladesh to Kolkata in India.

Additionally, trial runs for a freight train on the Bangladesh Railway route from Gede-Darshana to Haldibari-Chilahati will begin next month.

Development initiatives

India will provide funds to build an inland container depot in Sirajganj, Bangladesh. Modi emphasised that people-to-people contacts are important to strengthen ties between the two countries. To further support this, India will launch e-medical visa for Bangladeshi citizens seeking medical treatment in India. Also, India will open a new Assistant High Commission office in Rangpur, Bangladesh.

Strengthening bilateral ties

India and Bangladesh signed 10 agreements to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including:

- Digital technology
- Maritime activities
- Blue economy
- Railways
- Space exploration
- Green technology
- Health and medicine

These initiatives are aimed at boosting connectivity, trade and overall bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries.

Streamlined Travel for Indian Citizens and OCI Cardholders

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) to speed up the immigration process for Indian citizens and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders. This guide provides an overview of how to apply, required documents, and verification steps to make your travel easier.

Introduction to FTI-TTP

FTI-TTP is designed to improve the travel experience for pre-verified Indian citizens and OCI cardholders. The programme aims to simplify and expedite immigration processes for those who are eligible, ensuring a more efficient and secure travel process.

How FTI-TTP Works

FTI-TTP provides a streamlined immigration process for Indian citizens and OCI cardholders. Eligible travellers must apply online, providing the required biometric data such as fingerprints and facial images along with other personal information. Approved registrations are valid for five years or until the passport expires, whichever is earlier.

Steps to apply

1. Online Registration

Eligibility: Your passport must be valid for at least six months. Enrolment is valid for five years or until the passport expires.

- Documents Required**: Submit passport size photo, scanned copy of your passport (valid for at least six months), current address proof and OCI card if applicable.

- Application Process: Fill the online form with your biometrics and other personal details.

2. Document Submission

- Photograph: Provide passport size photo in JPEG format (10 KB to 1 MB).

- Passport Copy: Submit scanned copy of front and last pages of passport (size not exceeding 1 MB).

- Additional documents: Include a scanned copy of OCI card and proof of address in PDF format (10 KB to 1 MB).

3. Verification and Biometrics

- Authentication: Verify your identity through mobile OTP and email confirmation.

Processing Time and Location

- Processing Time: Registration can take up to a month.

- Biometric Locations: Biometric enrollment can be completed at designated international airports or FRRO offices in India. Location checklists are available online.

Special Instructions

- Software Requirements: Make sure Acrobat Reader is installed to complete the form.

- Contact Information: Use a valid personal email and mobile number (up to six registrations per email/mobile number).

- Software Requirements: Make sure Acrobat Reader is installed to complete the form.

- Contact Information: Use a valid personal email and mobile number (up to six registrations per email/mobile number).