Six killed in Bangkok market after gunman opens fire. This is the stark reality we’re looking at, a tragedy that unfolded in the bustling heart of Thailand’s capital. Reports indicate that on Monday, July 28th, a gunman unleashed a series of shots at a market in Bangkok, resulting in the deaths of at least six people. Initial reports, as provided by Thai police, paint a grim picture of the event, highlighting the devastating impact on the community.
The tragic toll included the gunman himself, who, according to police statements, took his own life. Charin Gopatta, the Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, confirmed this detail, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation.… Continue reading
Following the opening of the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone, a resort designed to bolster tourism, North Korea has temporarily banned foreign visitors. The ban comes shortly after the arrival of the first Russian tourists and a meeting between Kim Jong Un and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. This new resort, with a capacity of 20,000 people, features hotels, restaurants, and a water park along a 4km beachfront. The decision to restrict foreign access follows a pattern of abruptly halting tourism, as seen with Western tourists earlier this year.
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North Korea has abruptly banned foreign tourists from its newly opened Wonsan-Kalma tourist complex, a project hailed by leader Kim Jong Un. The ban’s announcement, made without specifying a reason or duration, came shortly after a visit by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who had expressed intentions to boost Russian tourism to the site. Experts suggest the decision may stem from a Russian media report that hinted at the mobilization of North Koreans for tourism rather than actual visitors, or from issues with attracting Russian tourists due to distance and cost. Despite the ban, which is unlikely to be permanent, the country faces financial pressures to open the complex to foreign tourists, given the significant investment and its importance in tourism development.
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China has significantly loosened its visa policies, now allowing citizens from 74 countries to enter for up to 30 days without a visa. This expansion aims to boost tourism, the economy, and China’s soft power. The changes have led to a surge in foreign visitors, with over 20 million entering without visas in 2024, and travel companies are preparing for even greater influxes. While the U.S. remains a significant source market, European travelers are increasing, and online travel agencies are reporting substantial booking increases. However, despite close ties, no major African countries currently qualify for the visa-free entry, while those from some other countries can enter for up to 10 days in transit.
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President Trump signed an executive order directing the National Park Service to increase entry and recreation pass fees for non-U.S. residents to fund park improvements. This directive also instructs the Interior Department to provide preferential treatment to U.S. residents regarding recreational access rules, including permitting. Simultaneously, the order revoked a 2017 memorandum promoting diversity and inclusion in national parks and established the “Make America Beautiful Again” Commission. These actions coincide with the administration’s efforts to reduce National Park Service staff and budget, as the Interior Department proposed cutting over $1 billion to the Park Service.
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As the intense heatwave continues to grip France, the Eiffel Tower has been forced to take safety measures. The summit of the iconic landmark has been closed to visitors for Tuesday and Wednesday due to the extreme temperatures. While the first and second floors remain accessible, the attraction’s website is advising those without pre-booked tickets to reschedule their visits. This decision prioritizes the well-being of both visitors and staff during the heatwave.
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North Korea is set to open the Wonsan Kalma Coastal Tourist Zone on July 1st, a beach resort designed to attract domestic tourists with the potential to host up to 20,000 visitors. The project, spearheaded by leader Kim Jong Un, aims to boost tourism and potentially generate revenue in the heavily sanctioned nation. While the resort’s ability to attract foreign tourists is uncertain, the country previously opened its borders to some Western visitors before abruptly halting tourism weeks later. It is unclear when the resort will begin welcoming international guests.
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Thailand moves to recriminalise cannabis, shaking $1 billion industry. It seems like a huge shift is happening, and the ripple effects are going to be felt far and wide. I mean, we’re talking about a country that had just opened up its doors to cannabis, and now it’s potentially slamming them shut again.
Thailand moves to recriminalise cannabis, shaking $1 billion industry, and the potential fallout is enormous. The fact that a thriving industry, estimated to be worth a billion dollars, is suddenly facing the prospect of being illegal again is, frankly, mind-boggling. This isn’t some small shift; it’s a major U-turn that will likely devastate countless businesses and the livelihoods of those who invested in this burgeoning market.… Continue reading
A 21-year-old Norwegian tourist, Mads Mikkelsen, claims he was denied entry into the U.S. at Newark Liberty International Airport and accused authorities of harassment. He was reportedly questioned about potential involvement in illicit activities and placed in a holding cell. Mikkelsen alleges that officials demanded access to his phone, where they discovered a meme of Vice President J.D. Vance, which they disapproved of. Despite pleading that the meme was a joke, he was denied entry, had his blood drawn, and was put on a flight back to Norway, while the Department of Homeland Security has not commented.
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In response to Spain’s housing crisis and protests against short-term rentals, the Consumer Rights Ministry ordered Airbnb to remove over 65,000 listings for lacking proper licensing or registration information. This follows a court decision upholding the ministry’s authority and is part of broader efforts to address affordability concerns exacerbated by platforms like Airbnb. Airbnb plans to appeal, arguing the ministry’s methodology was indiscriminate and that it overstepped its authority. The removal process will occur in phases, with the first phase impacting thousands of listings nationwide.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker