Thailand's Phuket Island has become a refuge for Russians fleeing military conscription, political oppression and Western sanctions.

A 37-year-old American tourist reportedly vanished Thursday in Thailand while jet skiing along Patong Beach near Phuket, prompting a search, a report says.

Thailand's Phuket Island has become a refuge for Russians fleeing military conscription, political oppression and Western sanctions.

Nina Ng, 37, vanished Thursday in Thailand while jet skiing near Phuket, a report says. (Credit: Asia Pacific Press)

Bangkok-born actor Dom Hetrakul plays a hotel spa therapist in The White Lotus season three. Here are his top tips for visiting Phuket, Koh Samui and Bangkok.

With season three of The White Lotus drawing new visitors to the already bustling shores of Phuket and Koh Samui, a very different story is unfolding across the Gulf of Thailand.

From lakeside villas in Phuket to palatial properties in Koh Samui, there's surging interest in investing in luxury property in Thailand.

For many years, Chinese tourism fueled the economy of this island paradise, known for its tropical weather, stunning sunsets and foreign-friendly accommodations.

A British tourist lost his cool while going through airport security before throwing a tantrum which allegedly caused cocaine to fall from his pocket. Marc Patrick Wharton, 42, had flown from Shanghai in China to the island of Phuket in Thailand when suspicious officers pulled him aside.

Koh Samui and Phuket are seeing record travel demand as The White Lotus season 3 fuels Thailand’s tourism boom. Bookings are soaring!

Authorities in Thailand's Phuket Island, in association with foreign consulates, are ramping up immigration checks and crackdowns on illegal activities following a surge in the number of drug-related crimes and foreigners working illegally.

Thailand video news: crime crackdowns, deportation backlash, tourist attack, wildlife rescue, and regional developments.