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Proposed 450-baht tourist fee moves forward

At an Oct 6 consultation, government and business representatives backed a proposed 450-baht fee for foreign tourists, starting with air arrivals. The money would fund visitor insurance and tourist sites. It isn't in effect yet: it still needs approval from the National Tourism Policy Committee and the Cabinet.

Sources: www.nationthailand.com

Departure tax proposal is open for comment until Oct 29

The Revenue Department is taking public comments until Oct 29 on a draft departure tax. As proposed, it would be 1,000 baht per departure by air for both Thais and foreigners, with land and sea departures exempt at first. It's only a proposal for now.

Sources: theledger.asia · www.bangladeshmonitor.com.bd

Immigration's THIM app now handles the TDAC

Thailand's Immigration Bureau has launched the THIM app. You can now submit your Thailand Digital Arrival Card in the app as well as on the official website. The bureau says it plans to add services such as 90-day reports and visa extensions later.

Sources: www.bangladeshmonitor.com.bd

Terroir.BKK, Song Wat

A bare-concrete shophouse in Bangkok's Song Wat and Chinatown area that puts the beans first. Expect single-origin filter, espresso, and occasional rare pours from Thailand, Panama, Ethiopia and other rotating origins. It's coffee-focused rather than a brunch spot, and weekdays are calmer than weekends.

Sources: www.filternotes.com

Graph Coffee Co., One Nimman

Graph is a Chiang Mai roaster that started in Sangkhlaburi in 2009 and moved to Chiang Mai in 2012. It roasts beans from Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai farms. This branch sits on a cobbled passage inside One Nimman, and drinks arrive on wooden boards with a printed card.

Sources: cnxbrew.com

Gallery Drip Coffee Hua Hin, Soi 51

A small, minimalist, gallery-style café that does single-origin hand drip one cup at a time, using northern-Thai and imported beans. It's a short walk from the beach along Soi 51. It closes on some days of the week, so check before you go.

Sources: wherebest.com · thailand-vloggers.com

The Roastery by Roj, Sanambin Road

Roj Pongpijit started roasting in 2009 and is widely credited with bringing third-wave coffee to Chiang Rai. It's a big wooden shop with a long list of local filter and espresso options, plus beans from around the world to buy.

Sources: www.rojroastery.com · sprudge.com