The following is our weekly feature article in which we take a look at the week ahead in Thailand and Pattaya news and the top stories to keep an eye on as we move into the next week.
These are chosen by our editorial team and are developing stories that we will follow and encourage our readers to follow over the next week or so. They are not in any particular order of importance.
These developing stories are for the week of February 7th to February 13th, 2021
1. Long holiday weekend with Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day expected to be subdued because of Covid-19 concern
A long holiday weekend is all set for this week from February 12th onwards, which bring in Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day in Thailand. The Center for Covid-19 Situation Administration has asked people to celebrate at home, officially, and big events have been canceled this year in Bangkok and Pattaya. However, smaller scale events can be held in parts of the country that are not “highly controlled” zones and Pattaya has decorated parts of the town. Although traveling is “discouraged” by the CCSA, unofficially, many in Pattaya hope some domestic tourists visit-especially if alcohol sales continue to stay banned in restaurants and bars are closed in Bangkok and Rayong. Chonburi fully opened all bars and entertainment venues on February 1st.
2. Situation in Myanmar continues to escalate after military coup as protests fill streets in Yangon, internet mostly cut in country
Following a military coup, the situation in Myanmar has escalated as this afternoon internet was widely cut in the country to stifle planned protests and communication. Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram were previously banned by the new military government “until further notice” due to what they stated as a security risk. Social media was flooded with people from Myanmar pleading for attention and international help prior to the shutdown. Information coming from the country is now difficult to get and phone lines have been spotty. In addition, there have been concerns on people possibly fleeing the country through the porous borders who may have Covid-19. Although this is not Thailand directly as they are next door many are paying attention.
3. Heavy storms possible for mid-week
Thunderstorms in February? It is is possible, according to the Thai Meteorological Department. Rain and wind would also likely help lessen the air pollution and smog in the area that have been a great concern lately and despite many complaints yearly and claims that the problem will be resolved, it continues to be a yearly problem.
4. Will there be more clarity on when exactly vaccines will arrive?
In a week of off again, on again promises around Covid-19 vaccines and if they would arrive by Valentine’s, as originally stated, it is now unclear if any vaccines will be arriving next week. We will keep you updated.
That’s all for this week, as always, thank you for following and supporting us.
User Review
( votes)
