Barclays Bank has announced its decision to terminate the UK current and savings accounts for British expatriates living overseas, a move that comes after a review of the bank’s international offerings initiated in 2021. This will affect numerous British citizens residing in countries like Thailand, among others. Affected customers have received official communication from Barclays giving them a six-month period to prepare and make necessary arrangements. While the decision has left some customers disappointed, Barclays maintains that its UK banking products are specially tailored for residents in Britain. A Barclays spokesman said: “We will no longer be offering personal current or savings accounts to retail customers with addresses registered with us outside of the United Kingdom, subject to limited exceptions. We are contacting impacted customers to give them advance notice of this decision and explain the next steps they need to take.” A notice, still available for viewing on the Barclays’ website, explicitly states, “If you live outside the UK or you’re planning to move abroad in the future, there will be changes to your banking and investment products and services. You won’t be able to open any new products or services with us, or increase borrowing limits on your existing accounts.” While the move by Barclays raises concerns, the bank offers an alternative for affected customers. Expatriates have the option of opening a global account with Barclays. However, there’s a caveat: account holders must maintain a minimum balance of £100,000 to dodge a monthly fee of £40. “I’ve been banking with Barclays for decades, and this decision is deeply disappointing,” said a British expat residing in Hua Hin. “It feels like they’re pushing us away.” Even those who aren’t Barclays customers have expressed concerns over the broader implications of such a decision. A reader of Hua Hin Today shared, “I don’t bank with Barclays, but this move worries me. What if other British banks decide to follow suit?” The post Barclays Bank to close UK accounts for British expats appeared first on Hua Hin Today English Newspaper Info, Reports, Events and News Social Life. [...]
One of the vanguards of Hua Hin’s blossoming wine scene is Monsoon Valley, the vineyard located in Hua Hin District. In a recent interview, Guido Campigotto, the general manager of F&B at Monsoon Valley, shed light on the growth of Hua Hin’s wine culture. “Over the last two decades, Thailand and in particular Hua Hin, due to the vicinity of the vineyard, has seen 10 to 15% growth in wine interest,” said Guido, citing research from Wine and Spirit IQ Magazine. The uptick is especially notable among younger, affluent Thai citizens with disposable income, eager to delve deeper into the nuances of wine. However, it’s only in recent years that locals have begun to appreciate the potential of home-grown products. This recognition stems largely from wineries like Monsoon Valley and Gran Monte in Khao Yai, which have been producing award-winning wines that hold their own on the global stage. RELATED: Hua Hin Wine Expo set to dazzle this November Monsoon Valley’s commitment to fostering wine appreciation doesn’t stop at their vineyard gates. Guido highlighted their various initiatives to engage with the community, from offering tours of their wine-making facilities in Samut Sakorn to educational sessions led by their own wine maker. These tours, limited to 30 people, culminate in interactive wine tastings and workshops. For those who enjoy wine-related events, Guido discussed some of Monsoon Valley’s recent activities. “Coinciding with our annual harvest, we’ve introduced an event where guests can participate in grape production from a select area,” he mentioned. In addition to this, the vineyard frequently hosts events that blend interesting and great tasting food pairings, from Thai to Western cuisine, with their in-house wines. To ensure harmony between their food offerings and wines, Monsoon Valley has embraced the trend of sourcing local. “We’ve incorporated cheeses from Chiang Mai, cold cuts produced right here in Hua Hin, and even our own wine-infused ingredients,” said Guido. Moreover, their recent addition, Don Brusco, is tailored to complement Thai flavors, boasting fruitiness and subtle effervescence that pairs splendidly with exotic recipes. For newcomers to Monsoon Valley’s offerings, Guido recommends starting with their best-seller, the White Shiraz, a Rosé wine ideal for any time of the day. He also pointed to their distinctively Thai-produced Merlot, a rarity that wine enthusiasts shouldn’t miss. Wrapping up, Guido emphasized the importance of Hua Hin’s growing wine culture. “The presence of a local vineyard is a boon for international tourism,” he said. “Over the past four years, I’ve observed a surge in new wine shops that enhance the Royal Riviera’s reputation as a destination of sun, sand, sea, and elegance. Monsoon Valley is looking forward to being an integral part of this exciting evolution.” The post From grape to glass: Inside Hua Hin’s wine surge with Monsoon Valley appeared first on Hua Hin Today English Newspaper Info, Reports, Events and News Social Life. [...]
Hi personal wellness development fanatics, Hope all of you are doing amazing and reading this article right now or tomorrow, or maybe later… In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of procrastination. We’ve all been there – putting off tasks until the last minute, succumbing to distractions, and letting time slip away. However, what many of us fail to realize are the profound and far-reaching effects procrastination can have on our mental health, finances, and family life. Today, I would like to share the pointers of the Procrastination Course I led last month. HOPE IT HELPS!!! (Once you decide to start applying them.) The perils of procrastination Mental health: Procrastination can take a significant toll on our mental well-being. Constantly delaying tasks leads to feelings of guilt, anxiety, and stress. The more we postpone, the heavier the burden on our minds, leading to decreased motivation and a negative impact on self-esteem. Finances: Procrastination can be financially draining. Whether it’s putting off budgeting, investing, or delaying important financial decisions, the costs can accumulate. Missing deadlines for bill payments or ignoring financial planning can result in late fees, missed opportunities, and mounting debt. Family life: Procrastination can create strains in relationships, especially when it leads to unfinished promises or commitments. Failing to fulfill responsibilities towards family members can lead to disappointment and a lack of trust. How to overcome procrastination The good news is that procrastination is a learned behavior, and with the right strategies, we can overcome it. Here are some steps to help you break free from its clutches: Identify the Root Cause: Reflect on why you tend to procrastinate. Fear of failure, perfectionism, or feeling overwhelmed can be common causes. Understanding the underlying reasons will help you address them effectively. Set clear goals: Break down your tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Set specific, achievable goals with deadlines to create a sense of urgency and accomplishment. Create a schedule: Organize your day with a structured schedule. Allocate dedicated time for each task, and stick to it diligently. Avoid distractions during work hours to maintain focus. Reward yourself: Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. Rewarding yourself for completing tasks can create positive reinforcement and motivation. Seek support: Don’t be afraid to seek help from family, friends, or even a professional coach. Support and accountability can make a significant difference in overcoming procrastination. The benefits of conquering procrastination Embracing a proactive approach to life yields numerous advantages, including: Improved mental well-being: Breaking the cycle of procrastination reduces stress and boosts self-esteem. You’ll feel more in control of your life and experience greater peace of mind. Financial empowerment: By making timely financial decisions and planning, you’ll build a secure financial future and avoid unnecessary expenses. Stronger relationships: Keeping promises and fulfilling commitments will foster trust and strengthen bonds with your loved ones. Unlock your full potential with coaching If you find yourself trapped in the procrastination loop, consider seeking the guidance of a professional coach. A skilled coach can help you identify your unique challenges, develop personalized strategies, and provide the support and encouragement needed to make lasting changes. Investing in procrastination coaching is an investment in your future. Break free from the chains of procrastination and embrace a life of productivity and fulfillment. Take the first step today, and unlock your full potential! To learn more about how our coaching services can help you conquer procrastination, visit our website www.sjoerdjoosten.com or contact us at +66-97.261.1016. Don’t wait; start your journey toward a more productive and rewarding life now! Here to help! The post Breaking free from the chains of procrastination: Embrace a productive future! appeared first on Hua Hin Today English Newspaper Info, Reports, Events and News Social Life. [...]
On 22nd September, Phetchaburi Province took a significant step towards advancing its tourism industry to meet international standards. A meeting was held at the Phetchaburi Provincial Hall, Mueang district, chaired by Ms. Wanpen Mangsri, Deputy Governor of Phetchaburi. The central focus of the discussion was to address the needs concerning products and services in the tourism sector of Phetchaburi and Cha-am. The committee presented a report detailing plans for elevating entertainment and activities in the region to international standards. The report emphasized the committee’s ongoing efforts to ensure the readiness of the local tourism business sector. Furthermore, participants deliberated on strategies to efficiently promote Phetchaburi and Cha-am tourism on a global platform. The goal is to optimize benefits for the region, foster understanding among entrepreneurs and stakeholders, and guarantee the safety of both Thai and international tourists. These efforts aim to bolster tourists’ confidence, assuring them of both their personal safety and security while visiting. Aside from its beach, the PhetchaburiCha-am region is seen as an emerging hotspot for both local and international travelers. The post Phetchaburi and Cha-am aims to boost tourism to international standards appeared first on Hua Hin Today English Newspaper Info, Reports, Events and News Social Life. [...]
The Hua Hin Municipality has submitted a formal request to provincial officials for the green light to host its annual long tail boat racing event at Khao Tao reservoir in November. In a meeting on Sept 22, Ms. Busaba Choksucharti, the deputy mayor of Hua Hin among other key officials, attended a meeting at the provincial administration, which was chaired by Mr. Komkrit Jaroenphattanasombat, the Deputy Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan. Mr. Wisanu Wasanont, a local representative of Prachuap Khiri Khan, was also in attendance, along with other committee members. The heart of the discussion revolved around the municipality’s request for the continuation of the longboat racing event. This event traditionally occurs every November to December at the Khao Tao reservoir, a project that was initiated by royal directive. The committee’s task was to ascertain whether the event adheres to the Ministry of Interior’s guidelines and can be classified as a local traditional ceremony. In an earlier session, the committee had advised the municipality to furnish evidence of the event’s historical relevance and records that underscore local involvement. Responding to this, the municipality presented evidence of a race from as far back as November 23rd, 2007. After a comprehensive review of the presented materials, the committee reached a unanimous decision that the boat racing event indeed holds traditional significance for the area. The final verdict on whether the event will proceed on the proposed date now awaits provincial approval. Previously, the municipality had said it aimed to hold the event between Nov 17-19. The post Hua Hin seeks approval to hold long tail boat racing event in November appeared first on Hua Hin Today English Newspaper Info, Reports, Events and News Social Life. [...]