The weekend is finally here! If you want to go out and have fun, there are plenty of things to do in Bangkok this weekend. From watching the quarter-finals of EURO 2024 in a sports bar to enjoying Catalan dishes, here’s our pick of the best events and activities in Bangkok to keep you entertained this weekend.

Things to do in Bangkok this weekend (July 5 to 7)

Weekly live sports schedule and Friday Football Free Flow at The Clubhouse Bangkok

When: Daily, 09.30 to 00.00. Sports screenings depend on game schedules.

Where: The Clubhouse Bangkok, 21/1-3 Soi Sukhumvit 23

It’s the weekend, which means it’s time to cheer on your favourite teams with your friends and fellow fans at The Clubhouse Bangkok. As Bangkok’s premier sports bar, they have plenty of HD TVs and Sony HD projectors spread across two floors for optimal viewing pleasure. While you’re catching all the action, chow down on tasty bites like chicken parmigiana and their famous clubhouse wraps. Plus, you’ll have access to a fully stocked bar, with cocktails crafted by expert mixologists and beer on tap. 

This weekend, The Clubhouse Bangkok is screening live broadcasts of Euro 2024, AFL – Aussie Rules, Rugby Union Internationals, NRL, and F1 – British Grand Prix. They also show Wimbledon matches daily. You have the option to watch these games either indoors in their air-conditioned space or outdoors on the terrace.

On Fridays, The Clubhouse Bangkok offers a special deal where you can drink unlimited Singha beer, house pour spirits, and house wine for 2 hours during AFL and NRL games.

Rock the Box at Speakerbox

When: Friday, July 5. Door opens at 19.00, show starts at around 20.40

Where: Speakerbox, Liberty Plaza, Thong Lor

How much: 200 THB

If you’re an alternative rock enthusiast, swing by Rock The Box at Speakerbox this Friday. The event will feature three excellent bands. Warhall will play some of their alternative rock songs along with covers. The Chocolate Cosmos will perform hits from bands like Arctic Monkeys and The Killers. Lastly, Skydonkey will cover bands, such as Nirvana and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Fatty’s Independence Days at Fatty’s Bar & Diner

When: Friday, July 5

Where: Fatty’s Bar & Diner

How much: Free entry

Fourth of July might have passed, but you can still celebrate it at Fatty’s Bar & Dinner. For the second day of their Fourth of July celebration, they have a special menu packed with special surprises from Door County, Wisconsin. There’s also a deal on craft beer, as well as buy one get one free hot dogs all day and night. Plus, every order comes with a free watermelon because who doesn’t love a juicy slice of summer goodness?

Global Desi Night at Finch Bangkok

When: Saturday, July 6, from 20.00 to 00.00

Where: The Finch Bangkok, Sukhumvit Soi 11

Head over to Finch Bangkok this Saturday for their Global Desi Night with a live performance by the amazing Sarvpreet Singh. Dance like there’s no tomorrow to the hottest desi tracks, and party it up with your friends and family.

Gastronomy Dinner Series at Embassy Room

When: Saturday, July 6, from 19.00

Where: Embassy Room – Catalan Cuisine, Park Hyatt Bangkok, Witthayu Road

How much: 5,500++ THB per person

No dinner plans yet? Why not expand your palate by trying Spanish Catalonian Cuisine at the Embassy Room this weekend? Enjoy a 5-course menu crafted using the best ingredients and cooking techniques. Plus, you get to wash it all down with special cocktails made by mixologist Khun Singto from Penthouse Bar & Grill.

Sake Week Thailand 2024 at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center

When: Saturday and Sunday, July 6 to 7, 10.00 to 20.00

Where: Queen Sirikit National Convention Center

How much: 899 THB per person including a sake glass, NFC wristband, and 11 digital coins for food and drink.

This weekend, Bangkok will welcome its first-ever sake event. With over 40 types of sake from Japan and top restaurants in Thailand, this event is a dream come true for all sake enthusiasts. The participating restaurants have even been recognized by prestigious awards like Michelin Thailand and Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. Feeling competitive? Join the Sato competition, where your sake knowledge will be put to the test by experts from both Thailand and Japan.

Kid’s Chocolate Workshop at Kad Kokoa

When: Sunday, July 7, from 10.00

Where: Kad Kokoa Bangkok

How much: 700 THB per child

If you’re looking for a fun but educational thing to do for your child, sign them up for the Kid’s Chocolate Workshop with Kad Kokoa. In this workshop, they will gain knowledge and creativity about chocolate. The 2-hour workshop is perfect to make their summer holiday even sweeter.

Whether you want to dance all night, spend quality time with your family, or hang out with friends, you’ll always find something to keep you occupied in Bangkok this weekend.

Craving pizza? Check out these 5 restaurants offering the best pizza in Bangkok this weekend.

The story What to do in Bangkok this weekend (July 5 to 7) as seen on Thaiger News.

China is reportedly offering to sell Indonesia a half-built submarine originally ordered by Thailand, and claims it will include a German-made engine if that is what Jakarta wants.

The rainy season brings a unique culinary delight to Phayao – the “Jing Kung” or egg-laden mole cricket, which is now in abundance. Prized for its delicious taste and high nutritional value, locals eagerly dig them up for consumption and sale.

During the rainy season, the egg-laden mole cricket, also known as “Jing Kung” or “Ji Khrong,” becomes a sought-after delicacy. These insects, found burrowed in the ground, grow considerably large and are highly desired by consumers for their delectable flavour and nutritional benefits. Many locals in Phayao take advantage of this seasonal bounty, digging for these crickets to sell in markets at lucrative prices.

Residents flock to unearth these crickets, selling them to market vendors at prices ranging from 2 to 3 baht per cricket. A bag of 50 crickets fetches around 150 baht, while large quantities can sell for prices between 100 and 600 baht. The crickets are particularly popular among consumers who use them to prepare various dishes, including crispy fried crickets and chilli paste, due to their substantial nutritional content.

At the Tha Wang Thong fresh market in Tha Wang Thong, Mueang Phayao District, people are seen bustling around, purchasing ingredients for their meals.

These crickets are not only a treat but also packed with essential nutrients, making them a valued addition to traditional dishes. Particularly, the egg-laden crickets are favoured for their rich flavour.

The egg-laden mole crickets are versatile and can be used in numerous recipes. Popular dishes include crispy fried crickets and chilli paste, which are highly favoured by the northern Thai community. Other regions also have their unique ways of preparing these crickets, making them a versatile ingredient in various culinary traditions.

During this season, the crickets are plump and large, preparing for mating, which prompts locals to harvest them for both consumption and sale. Once the mating season ends, these crickets become scarce, and they are only available for about one period every year.

“We only get to enjoy these crickets once a year, so we make the most of it.”

The anticipation of this seasonal delicacy brings excitement to the community, as people prepare their favourite dishes. The brief availability period makes the crickets even more cherished, with locals eagerly awaiting the next rainy season to savour them again, reported KhaoSod.

The story When it rains, it bugs: Phayao’s Jing Kung season is cracking good as seen on Thaiger News.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin vehemently denied allegations of misconduct in the appointment of Police General Torsak Sukvimol as national police chief.

The Thai premier stood firm against accusations that he had breached the Royal Thai Police (RTP) Act when appointing Torsak Sukvimol last year. The complaint was brought against him by Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn aka Big Joke, Torsak’s former deputy.

Big Joke, in his complaint filed with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) yesterday, July 3, claimed that the 62 year old prime minister violated Article 157 of the Criminal Code by not adhering to the RTP Act. He argued that the RTP Act mandates the prime minister, who is the ex-officio chair of the Police Commission, to prioritise candidates for the police commissioner-general role based on seniority and investigative performance.

Big Joke alleged that that the former real estate tycoon bypassed this requirement by selecting the fourth seniormost candidate without justification, overlooking the top three candidates’ investigative achievements. However, the 62 year old Thai PM countered these claims, asserting that his decision was impartial and made with the utmost integrity.

The Thai prime minister emphasised that Torsak’s investigative prowess was well-recognised and had received unanimous endorsement from the Police Commission. He also clarified that he had abstained from voting for Torsak due to his role in the nomination process.

“I chose the candidate for the top cop’s job without bias and with honest intentions. So, I’m ready to explain to the NACC.”

Adding to the political drama, the Bangkok-born PM mentioned his uncertainty about whether his legal adviser Wissanu Krea-ngam would lead his defence, as Wissanu is currently prioritising a case before the Constitutional Court.

The court is considering a petition by a group of senators seeking PM Srettha’s removal from office for allegedly breaching ethical standards and the Constitution by appointing Pichit Chuenban as PM’s Office Minister despite Pichit’s controversial past, reported The Nation.

In related news, the Thai PM launched an urgent investigation into claims that entry passes to Government House are being sold for cash.

The story Top cop controversy: PM Srettha denies misconduct as seen on Thaiger News.

A minor altercation between two road users culminated in a road rage incident, where a taxi driver collided with a motorcyclist, running him over multiple times and dragging his bike along the road for over a kilometre before crashing into a utility pole.

The event transpired at 7.40am this morning, July 4, on Chaeng Watthana Road, beneath Rama IV Bridge, Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi. Traffic police from Pak Kret Police Station, along with Ruamkatanyu Foundation volunteers, rushed to the scene.

Upon their arrival, a Bangkok-registered taxi was seen parked in the median, with the driver still inside. Nearby lay a severely damaged black Yamaha motorcycle. Police and rescue personnel attempted to communicate with the taxi driver, who appeared unresponsive and claimed to have chest pain. They extricated him from the vehicle and transported him to the hospital.

Witnesses reported that the accident began on Rama IV Bridge. A Good Samaritan recorded a video showing the taxi dragging the motorcycle from the bridge down to the incident site.

An eyewitness, 33 year old Jaroenpong recounted that while riding his motorcycle to work from Chaiyaphruek Road, he noticed a vehicle with flashing lights ahead. As he attempted to pass, he saw the taxi reversing into the fallen motorcycle and then moving forward, hitting it again and dragging it along.

Jaroenpong captured the incident on his phone and rode ahead to alert police stationed nearby. As the motorcycle was still lodged in the taxi’s wheels, Jaroenpong noticed the taxi attempting to manoeuvre the motorcycle off its wheels by driving onto the curb, but instead, the taxi lost control and ended up in the median and crashed into a utility pole, halting its escape.

Road rage

The injured motorcyclist, 40 year old Wicharaphon explained that he left his home in Bang Bua Thong and was on Rama IV Bridge when the traffic slowed. The taxi, originally in the far-right lane, abruptly cut into the middle lane, nearly causing an accident. Wicharaphon stopped his bike in front of the taxi to question the driver, but the taxi accelerated, hitting his bike and knocking it over.

Determined to stop the taxi, Wicharaphon began a chase, despite his damaged bike. The taxi, however, reversed into his motorcycle, hitting him multiple times until he had to jump onto the bridge’s edge for safety. The taxi then sped away, dragging the motorcycle caught on its left rear wheel.

Jaroenpong offered Wicharaphon a ride and recorded the chase. The pursuit ended when the taxi, attempting to dislodge the motorcycle, veered into the median and came to a stop.

The taxi driver, found inside with his seatbelt fastened and eyes closed, appeared uninjured, while Wicharaphon sustained injuries to his leg and hand. Police are now handling the case, reported KhaoSod

The story Road rage: Bangkok taxi driver drags motorcyclist for a kilometre as seen on Thaiger News.

Family vacations are among life’s most precious experiences – opportunities for parents and kids to enjoy quality time together and make memories that last a lifetime. Now, Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort, the award-winning resort nestled just steps from the Andaman Sea, is giving families the chance to create magical moments with its new “Family Getaway Package” – including free meals and activities for kids!

Available from now until 30 November 2024 – perfectly timed to coincide with the school holidays in many countries – this exclusive package lets parents and children stay in the comfort of a two-bedroom Family Suite, which offers 79 square meters of space, bright and colourful interiors, and even boat-shaped beds for kids.

The whole family can kickstart each day with daily breakfast at Chao Leh Kitchen, the vibrant all-day dining destination, and little ones can eat for free throughout the day from a dedicated kids’ menu. Youngsters will also be offered free ice creams all day long!

The Little Sea Gypsies Kids Club is a pirate ship-themed haven of fun that will transport little ones into a world of adventure. Packed full of toys, games and books, and with a daily schedule of complimentary activities – from arts & crafts classes to invigorating outdoor games – this is the perfect place to inspire young imaginations. The dedicated play area and swimming pool also ensure that kids have plenty of ways to stay active, and the soft sands of Patong Beach are just footsteps away.

Nestled in the heart of Phuket’s most dynamic tourism district, overlooking Patong Beach and the Andaman Sea beyond, Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort is the ultimate destination for families to stay, play, dine and unwind together.

Guests who book with the Marriott Bonvoy® App or on marriott.com can access exclusive rates at thousands of extraordinary hotels around the world. Not a member yet? To sign up for free, please visit https://joinmarriottbonvoy.com/hktfp

For more information and to book the “Family Getaway Package” using the promo code ZJ5, please call +66 (0) 76 645 999 or visit Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort’s English website. For Thai customers, please call 076 645 999 or visit our Thai website at www.th.fourpointsphuketpatong.com

Press Release

The story Create lifelong memories with family getaway package at Four Points by Sheraton Phuket as seen on Thaiger News.

After 14 years as the mastermind behind Nok Air, Really Cool Airlines CEO Patee Sarasin is back with a daring new venture promising to shake up the airline industry.

At 62, Patee believes that the winds of change are about to sweep through the world of air travel. Having witnessed the tumultuous impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the aviation industry, he is determined to steer clear of similar pitfalls with his latest project, the whimsically named Really Cool Airlines.

Launched in March last year, Really Cool Airlines aims to start operations later this year, focusing primarily on international long-haul flights. Patee envisions a passenger experience like no other, leveraging partnerships outside the traditional airline industry, such as in the entertainment and digital sectors. His goal is to make air travel exciting again, rejecting the notion of planes as mere “buses in the sky.”

“The name ‘Really Cool’ resonates globally. It’s easily understood from America to Australia. We want passengers to step aboard and think, ‘Wow, that’s really cool!’ Our job is to offer unique services that continually impress and provide value.”

The airline will initially operate with A330 wide-body aircraft, targeting four major cities in Japan—Narita, Nagoya, Kansai, and Chikusei. Additionally, routes will include Hong Kong, Singapore, and Kazakhstan, a destination Patee describes as a “beautiful place that will be an eye-opener for many Thais.”

Patee candidly discusses the current challenges in the industry, particularly the scarcity of aircraft and skilled personnel post-pandemic.

“The supply side has gone bonkers. Not enough planes and the ground-handling services suffered because many good people were let go. Now, they don’t want to return.”

Despite these hurdles, Patee’s management style remains flexible and collaborative.

“I work closely with my team, listen to new ideas, and avoid rigid thinking. To build a great brand today, you must break away from the norm.”

The Really Cool Airlines CEO emphasises the importance of forward-thinking and adaptability in business.

“Staying safe means stagnating. You must plan and differentiate yourself. Otherwise, you’ll face unexpected challenges.”

On a personal note, Patee enjoys being a father and values the balance it brings to his life, reported Prestige Online.

“I don’t want my kids to grow up too fast. Having them around teaches me to divide my time well. I’m not materialistic, and I value inclusivity and open-mindedness in this ever-changing world.”

The story Taking off: Really Cool Airlines CEO ready to revolutionise air travel as seen on Thaiger News.

The relationship between Thailand and Bhutan, two kingdoms with a unique geographical and cultural connection, has steadily strengthened in recent years.

Despite the vast distance between the two nations, their shared values and royal family ties have fostered a harmonious and burgeoning relationship.

During Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay’s recent official visit to Thailand, the two countries made significant progress in various fields, including trade and investment, tourism, education, and renewable energy.

The two kingdoms also are commemorating the 35th anniversary of their diplomatic relationship.

During his bilateral discussion with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, the two leaders agreed to accelerate the negotiation to conclude the Thailand-Bhutan Free Trade Agreement.

In the related development, Thailand expressed interest in exploring investment opportunities in Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project, which aligns with both countries’ shared values of technology-driven and sustainable development. 

To further promote tourism, the two kingdoms launched the “Two Kingdoms, One Destination” initiative to boost the tourism industry in their countries.

In 2023, approximately 20,000 Bhutanese visited Thailand, showcasing the growing interest in cultural exchange and tourism between the two nations.

The two leaders agreed to establish a “Friends of Thailand-Bhutan Group” to strengthen the bonds between the peoples of Thailand and Bhutan. 

The two countries also agreed to collaborate and share expertise in renewable energy, particularly in hydropower, which both nations have successfully harnessed.

This partnership will contribute to their efforts in achieving energy security and promoting sustainable practices.

Thailand congratulated Bhutan on its success in performing the country’s first kidney transplant, which was made possible through close collaboration between the two countries’ medical institutions.

To enhance medical cooperation, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Thai Ministry of Public Health and the Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan.

Since the 1980s, Thailand has provided assistance and training to Bhutan, including capacity building in public health, agriculture, and tourism.

This ongoing support has played a significant role in strengthening the ties between the two nations.

As both Thailand and Bhutan look towards the future, their harmonious relationship, rooted in shared values, royal family connections, and a commitment to mutual growth and sustainability, is poised for continued success and expansion in the years to come,

Kavi Chongkittavorn//Photo : Bhutanese Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay

<p>The post Thailand-Bhutan: Strengthening harmonious royal ties first appeared on Thai PBS World.</p>

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers that a dietary supplement that claims to help men with erection problems contains a prescription-only drug that can have serious side effects.

A man who spray-painted an anarchist symbol and the number 112 — a reference to the lese-majeste law — on the wall of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha last year has been sentenced to eight months in jail without suspension for vandalism.