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Hong Kong hosts the World’s 50 Best Bars awards, with Bar Leone ranked No. 1, marking a historic first for Asia. The city also sees new bar openings, immersive dining experiences, and a vibrant event week, highlighting its rising prominence in the global cocktail scene.
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Thailand expects 33.4 million visitors in 2025, a 6% drop from last year, despite peak season arrivals. Concerns over safety, currency gains, and alternative destinations have impacted Chinese tourist numbers. The government is implementing measures to boost domestic and regional tourism, aiming for a recovery in 2026.
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Heavy rains caused severe flooding across 12 southern provinces of Thailand, affecting over 3 million people and resulting in at least 82 deaths. The government acknowledged shortcomings in flood management, announced relief measures, and received royal support, including a donation from King Maha Vajiralongkorn.
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A Thai appeals court has approved the extradition of She Zhijiang, a Chinese-Cambodian national, to China. He faces charges related to illegal online gambling, scam networks, and money laundering. She was arrested in Bangkok in 2022 and has been detained since. The extradition will proceed within 90 days.
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On Nov 21, Fátima Bosch of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025 in Bangkok after a pageant marked by controversy including a public dispute with the Thai director, judge resignations over alleged rigging, and contestant protests. Bosch's win was celebrated in Mexico, with President Claudia Sheinbaum praising her courage. The event exposed leadership and transparency issues within the Miss Universe Organization.
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A 65-year-old woman in Thailand was mistakenly declared dead and prepared for cremation. She was found alive in her coffin moments before the service, after her family traveled 500 km. She was treated for hypoglycemia and is now recovering, with the temple covering her medical expenses.
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As of November 29, 2025, severe flooding in southern Thailand has affected over 1.4 million households and 3.8 million people across 12 provinces. The death toll has risen to 162, with Songkhla province, especially Hat Yai city, hardest hit. Floodwaters are receding, enabling rescue and relief efforts, while the government faces criticism over flood management and plans compensation and aid.
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On January 14, 2026, a crane collapsed onto a moving train in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand, derailing it and causing a fire. At least 22 people died and 80 were injured. The crane was part of a high-speed rail construction project linking Bangkok to China. A separate crane accident occurred near Bangkok on January 15, injuring five.