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Can you cite a current source for this claim? I recall reading a similar figure but I believe it dated to over a few decades ago.

From The Thaiger Pattaya entertainment venues near U-Tapao airport get 24-hour operations approval In an effort to stimulate the tourism sector, the Thai Cabinet has given the nod to a proposal that promotes round-the-clock operations of Pattaya entertainment venues. However, this permit is specifically allocated to the region around U-Tapao International Airport. The allowance is aimed at servicing transient passengers who wish to enjoy a relaxing drink while awaiting their flight schedules, not extending to the operations of beach and nightclubs that are active both day and night, expressed Pattaya Entertainment Association Secretary, Damrongkiet Pinitkarn. Damrongkiet shed light on the fact that the 24-hour operations proposal does not currently extend to the entertainment establishments in Pattaya. But he swiftly followed this clarification with the revelation that the entertainment venue owners in Pattaya are ardently requesting for their operating closing hours to be extended to 4am legally. This request also ties up with zoning expansions in Pattaya, both of which have been primarily forwarded to the relevant agencies. However, the final decisions are pending till the country successfully transitions to a new government and Prime Minister. Damrongkiet suggested that if a zoning expansion is given the green signal, it should not negatively impact the residential communities in the locality. It is worth noting that the current proposal in the talks primarily emphasises on extending the entertainment zones from Central Pattaya to portions of Jomtien, Naklua, and Eastern Pattaya. A closer observation reveals that there already exists a good number of bars and entertainment facilities, particularly in Jomtien. However, technically speaking, they should ideally function only as restaurants without any hostess, music, or entertainment, abiding by the 2002 zoning laws.

From Thai PBS World One of the oldest markets in Thailand’s capital, Tha Tien is a must-visit tourist destination, thanks to its location in the old town, a rich historical background, and the diverse cultures of Thai citizens of various backgrounds. But this historical quarter is not just recommended for foreign visitors but also for Thai locals and expatriates who will be fascinated by the multifaceted charms it has to offer. Nestled in the heart of so-called Rattanakosin Island, the Tha Tien community is bursting with treasures and historical sites as well as relatively newer lifestyle options such as cafés, bars and restaurants. It recently played host to the Tha Tien Festival. Held from July 21 to 23, the event featured a range of activities including a walking tour. Visitors could choose three walking routes – Foodies, Mutelu (a fusion of different spiritual and mystical beliefs, creating a unique and complex system of faith and practices in Thai culture) and Cultural. Of course, no single route can provide a thorough understanding of the area so anyone wishing to learn more is well advised to return. The word “Tha” means port and Tha Tien was an important area for maritime trade in the past. There are several theories as to the origin of its name. Some say that it came from multiple fires in this area. Others believe that it was established by a group of refugees who sought shelter from wars during the Thonburi period. These refugees migrated from Hatinh and eventually transformed the area into the community now known as Tha Tien. Whatever the reason behind the name, this former maritime port area drew people of different nationalities to conduct business. The Kingdom’s very first distribution centre of goods, it quickly became a melting pot of cultures including Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Mon. Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkalaram Ratchaworamahavihard or Wat Pho, sometimes referred to as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, served as the religious backbone of the community and remains its most important historical and cultural site. The Mutelu tour invites visitors to experience the attractions on the other side of Thai Tien, notably the iconic Phra Prang Wat Arun. As part of the tour, visitors are also introduced to the talk-of-the-town Phra Prang’s tile pattern ice-cream. Continues at https://www.thaipbsworld.com/tha-tien-old-bangkok-at-its-very-best/

Can't figure out why you persist in seeking medical advice about the possible outcomes of sexual activity on a this website when you can easily find expert professional opinions with a simple Google search. First, You have no idea what you're missing. Second, it's prima facie evidence that this is a hoax.

From Travel and Leisure In the ancient city of Luang Prabang, even popular spots feel intimate. Boats cruise the Mekong River — almost all head out around golden hour and cruise through twilight — yet it seems as if you’re floating alone on this iconic waterway, which flows from China to Vietnam and through Northern Laos on its way. As I lay on the wooden deck of a traditional slow boat, one that Sofitel Luang Prabang uses for guests, I watched the outline of the hills in the distance, and in the foreground, fishermen standing on their respective sampans. For a moment, time stood still; it was just the fishermen, me, and the Mekong. Visitor numbers have surged here in recent months (mostly due to the border with neighboring China reopening), but Luang Prabang remains relatively under the radar among U.S. travelers. Should someone arrive in the Laotian capital of Vientiane, they can access Luang Prabang via a new high-speed rail link that takes just two hours; the route will soon continue north and up to China. However, if you’re like me, you will fly in from Bangkok. From there, Air Asia and Bangkok Airways offer daily service for the less than two-hour flight to Vientiane. Some 500,000 people, across more than 60 different ethnic groups, call Luang Prabang home, the Khmu, Lao Loum, and Hmong being the largest Indigenous nations. People here live a decidedly laid-back and unhurried life. It’s a stark contrast to, say, Bangkok or Saigon, neighboring Southeast Asian cities that offer international flights to this former royal capital. In early May, the region was hot and steamy, the sky a hazy grayish-blue and permanently on the cusp of a storm that would provide temporary relief. I spent my early mornings and late evenings on the quietest streets of Luang Prabang, which you’ll find on the promontory of the historic district between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, east of the Royal Palace. These streets contain the largest number of heritage buildings and are a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the markets. The morning market, operating from around 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. daily, is located in a mini-maze of alleys and backstreets near the center of town. It’s the place to be if you want to get a taste of how people here really live. Most of the vendors — who sell everything from grilled sticky rice (khao jee) and mung bean coconut rice cakes to sun-cured pork naem, plus the day’s catch — are set up on the ground. The night market operates from around 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily and is more of a tourist-focused affair, with an array of vendors setting up shop on streets that are closed to cars. While the red and blue tents along the main thoroughfare sell souvenirs and art pieces, the market has street food galore as well, like Laotian baguettes, laap, and green papaya salad. Continues at https://www.travelandleisure.com/how-to-visit-luang-prabang-laos-7555706

You both make good cases for Pattaya. My lack of motivation to visit is primarily because I'm not the beach person I was 30 years ago. I have no problem finding the type of guys and venues in Bangkok that more than satisfy my needs. But I never say never and appreciate your feedback.

From VN Express Southeast Asia has recently emerged as an ideal hub for global retirees thanks to its tropical weather and cheap cost of living, but only four countries now offer visas specifically for global retirees. Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest economy, offers a visa for elderly and retired individuals with a period of one year, which can be renewed annually for up to five years. Those holding the retirement visa are not allowed to work in Indonesia. To be eligible for the visa, foreigners aged 55 years and above, who can provide a guarantee letter from a tourism board as a guarantor, are required to show a proof of at least $1,500 a month in funds and health insurance. They also need to submit a proof of accommodation in Indonesia and proof of having employed an Indonesian maid or domestic helper. Since 2002, Malaysia has launched a retirement visa policy called "Malaysia My Second Home Program" in which applicants are divided into age-based categories of 25 to 49 years and 50 years and above. The visa program allows foreigners to live in Malaysia for up to 10 years. Those under the age of 50 must have liquid assets worth a minimum of RM500,000 ($118,500) and an offshore income of at least RM10,000 ($2,370) per month. For those from 50 and above, they are required to have at least RM350,000 in liquid assets and an offshore income of at least RM10,000 per month. Obtaining a retirement visa in Malaysia enables foreign retirees to purchase a house, set up their business and get a domestic helper. Thailand recently introduced a special policy for retirees aged 50 years and over with a 10-year multiple entry renewable visa, fast-track service at Thai airports, tax exemption for overseas income and a work permit among other privileges. To be eligible for the visa policy, foreign retirees are required to have an annual pension or stable income of at least $80,000 per year at the time of application. The Philippines, home to more than 64,000 foreign retirees, has launched a Special Residence Retiree's Visa program, allowing wealthy foreigners to hold a multiple-entry visa and the right to reside in the Philippines indefinitely. For those at least 50 years old and above, they need to have a deposit of $10,000 and a monthly pension of $800. Deposits for applicants aged 35 to 49 years old was $50,000 while those aged from 50 and above who do not receive monthly pension need to have a deposit of $20,000.

From Thai PBS News Malaysia’s government halted a music festival in the capital Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, a day after the frontman of British pop rock band The 1975 kissed a male bandmate onstage and criticised the country’s anti-LGBT laws. “There will be no compromise against any party that challenges, disparages and violates Malaysian laws,” Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said in a Twitter post after meeting the organisers of the Good Vibes Festival, a three-day event set to run until Sunday. The 1975 have also been banned from performing in Malaysia, said a government committee that oversees filming and performances by foreigners. Homosexuality is a crime in Muslim-majority Malaysia. Rights groups have warned of growing intolerance against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. In videos posted on social media late on Friday, Healy was seen kissing bassist Ross MacDonald after criticising Malaysia‘s stance against homosexuality in a profanity-laden speech to the festival audience. “I made a mistake. When we were booking shows, I wasn’t looking into it,” he said. “I don’t see the fucking point … of inviting The 1975 to a country and then telling us who we can have sex with.” Healy later cut short the set, telling the crowd: “All right, we’ve got to go. We just got banned from Kuala Lumpur, I’ll see you later.” The band could not immediately be reached for comment. Healy was criticised for kissing a male fan at a 2019 concert in the United Arab Emirates, which also has laws against homosexual acts, media reported. Continues at https://www.thaipbsworld.com/malaysia-halts-music-festival-after-same-sex-kiss-by-uk-band-the-1975/

Indeed.

Suggest checking websites of Saphan Kwai shops. There are a hundred plus photos to peruse. Walk past the shops on Silom, Soi 6 and Surawong for a sampling on what's available for sidewalk viewing. Check websites, twitter and FB pages of shops like Apollo, Jey Spa and today's newest entry, District 39.

HM management knows the formula for success and takes on new talent who buy into it. Bar should survive any competition. Actually, I think it may be healthy addition to the soi.

From Pattaya Mail The government is considering allowing entertainment venues in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) provinces to open all night to boost tourism in the region. The proposal to allow entertainment venues to open 24 hours in the provinces of Chonburi, Chachoengsao, and Rayong was accepted by the cabinet on Tuesday. Damrongkiat Phinitkan, secretary of the Entertainment and Tourism Association of Pattaya City, expressed his optimism that the plan will benefit local companies and revitalize the region’s tourism economy. According to Damrongkiat, entrepreneurs in Pattaya have expressed readiness to comply with regulations if the plan is approved. He said that bars and restaurants could remain open until late at night, while walking streets may remain open until the early hours of the morning. He also assures that if the new guidelines are followed correctly, the operation of all-night entertainment establishments will have no negative impact on local communities. The secretary also expressed his belief that, if the plan is approved, Pattaya will be able to compete with other world-class tourism destinations in Europe, South Korea, and Japan. (NNT)

Best wishes for a quick recovery but not once in 21 years have I been tempted. Bangkok provides more than I can handle.🙂

Like the way he worded his response: will not talk about sex and says not something they offer. I read that to mean it's like going into a restaurant and asking in they can prepare something not on the menu. Although I could have easily missed it, I gave the website a quick review and I didn't see "tipping" discussed. Leads me to believe that may be between masseur and customer. Even if it's simply as advertised, I'd give it a try.

There's ample available space on that side of soi that was once occupied by Dreamboy and Volcano ramen.

I want to thank desi-scottish for posing this question, and not because I'm planning to go to Pattaya for the first time ever. I'd always thought of all twinks as being smooth. But when I reconsidered the question I began to wonder how a smooth twink differed from your--or my--average twink. So I Googled "smooth twink" and landed on a website that set me straight--metaphorically speaking. There I learned that it means with little or no body hair (I'm assuming that exceptions are made for the genitals although I'm aware that some prefer them to be clean shaven even down there). Just as I was about to move on, I read a bit more and learned that there are far more categories of men than I had ever contemplated. Of course I was familiar with twink, hunk, bear and twunk. That seemed enough for the 60+ years after I had my first nocturnal emission. But the website extended that foursome to include another 10 or so. I suppose they had a point that I'd simply overlooked. But when they introduced me to otters and wolves I decided that they'd put too much on my plate. After thinking some more about all this I decided that I'm not gay at all; I just happen to like "men". Feel free to explore further: https://pairedlife.com/dating/Gay-Men-Are-you-a-Jock-Otter-Bear-or-Wolf

From Pattaya News Pattaya City is bringing another thrilling sports event in August as it is set to host the IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships, Thailand 2023. The exciting boat racing contest is the 16th edition arranged collaboratively by Pattaya City and the Rowing & Canoeing Association of Thailand (RCAT). Scheduled from the 8th of August to the 13th, the race location is planned to be at the Mabprachan Reservoir, Chonburi province. Currently, Thailand has over 1,000 dragon boat athletes competing at the national and international levels, demonstrating the country’s commitment to the traditional sport. The Mayor of Pattaya Poramase Ngampiches revealed he felt extremely excited that he will have the opportunity to host the IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships with the RCAT for the first time, hoping that it will help reinforce the city’s reputation as a sport tourism city. He also invites those interested to attend the official opening ceremony of the contest to join him on August 7th at Jomtien Beach.

FRom Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon Growing confidence in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) will attract growing numbers of foreigners keen to play a part in its widening scope. Mr Chula Sukmanop, secretary general of the EEC office, said the staff of foreign entities could apply for the 10-year LTR visa with automatic work permits as part of a one stop shop package. The visa also is open to retirees and global citizens but the advantages are less clear-cut to them. The EEC was set up in 2017 to boost economic growth in Chonburi (including Pattaya), Rayong and Chachoengsao provinces and has already had US$50 billion in investment. Initially, S-curve industries including electric vehicles and smart electronics were targeted, but Mr Chulasaid that stage two would see diversification into robotics, 5G and digitilisation, medical services and aviation amongst others. US$65 billion is the new financial target. Foreigners were entitled to the EEC incentive package, via the LTR visa, which would include freedom from corporate tax for 15 years and low or exempt rates of personal income tax. Families are welcome under the LTR scheme and there are favorable regulations relating to customs duties as well as freedom from immigration bureaucracy such as the unpopular 90-day reporting of address. Mr Chula added that building or factory permits and other licenses to operate could all be granted at the EEC office. EEC funding has already benefitted the Pattaya area. Laem Chabang and Map Ta Phut Ports are undergoing massive updating and, in Pattaya City, a brand new port is under negotiation to allow cruise ships to dock directly at Bali Hai pier. Several nearby motorways were supported by the EEC and some beachfront projects have also received supplementary cash. Other initiatives include an EEC Smart City project, near Pattaya, and further transport improvements. The LTR visa policy, which is run by the Board of Investment and not by the immigration bureau or foreign embassies, offers 10 years multiple entry stay to retirees and the global wealthy as well as business people. However, the key LTR advantage relates to tax incentives for investors and executives. Retirees and the idle rich have preferred the 5-20 years Elite visa which is simpler, although it does not include a work permit. The Board of Investment last December stated that about 2,700 applicants had expressed interest but did not say how many had actually progressed to completion.

From The Nation Srettha ready to be next PM, suggests Pheu Thai may ditch Move Forward Srettha Thavisin, one of Pheu Thai’s three prime ministerial candidates, suggested on Thursday that pulling out of the eight-party coalition led by the Move Forward Party could be inevitable and said he was ready to be Thailand’s next prime minister. “I am a PM candidate for Pheu Thai. I must be ready to take care of economic matters as assigned by the party,” he told reporters. A property tycoon turned politician, Srettha was also asked to comment on the possibility of “pushing Move Forward out of the coalition” after its PM candidate Pita Limjaroenrat failed to secure majority support from both Houses of Parliament. “That’s simple math. You may count by yourself. Everyone knows about that,” he said, adding that it was “too early” to conclude that Pheu Thai would nominate him for the parliamentary vote to select the next prime minister in a coalition that excluded Move Forward. Srettha said representatives from the eight coalition partners would soon discuss their next joint move. If they agree to allow Pheu Thai to nominate its candidate, the party’s executive board would select one of its three PM candidates for the vote. At the joint parliamentary meeting on Wednesday, Pita was renominated for voting following his failed first attempt last Thursday. But most parliamentarians voted not to allow a second vote on the grounds that it was a repeated motion that should not be submitted in the same parliamentary session. Srettha said on Thursday that amending Article 112 of the Penal Code – also known as the lese majeste law – must not be a policy of a coalition led by Pheu Thai because it could prevent it from gaining votes from many MPs and senators. Political parties outside of the Move Forward-led coalition and several senators announced that they would not vote for any candidate from a party that seeks to abolish or amend the lese majeste law. Some senators argued that changes proposed by Move Forward would undermine the monarchy and national security. Srettha stressed that the eight-party coalition would “remain united until any change”. When asked if the coalition has done its utmost in backing Pita’s bid to become prime minister, Srettha said: “Legally speaking, it seems to be so.” He also said that the coalition must be careful in nominating its next PM candidate as it has become a precedent that each candidate can be nominated only once during a parliamentary session.

Navy to sack officer accused of ammo thefts From Bangkok Post The navy has decided to sack an officer for prolonged absence from work amid allegations that he had stolen large quantities of ammunition from a naval base in Chon Buri. The officer has been absent without leave since July 5, Royal Thai Navy spokesman Adm Pokkrong Monthatphalin said on Thursday. The navy will propose his dismissal to the Defence Ministry and seek a warrant for his arrest from the military court, he added. Sources said he was a chief petty officer second class, supervising an arsenal at the Sattahip Naval Base in Chon Buri. Adm Pokkrong said that a search at the suspect’s house on Wednesday found stolen cartridges, which proved that the officer at large had stolen rounds of ammunition from the base. It was reported earlier that the base had lost tens of thousands of M855 and M856 bullets for 5.56mm rifles and thousands of 40mm grenade launcher rounds. Adm Pokkrong said financial transactions indicated that the thefts had taken place over a long period of time. The suspect has turned off all his communication devices and is believed to be hiding in the country, the navy spokesman said.

The current issue of the Harvard Men's Health Letter featured an article on tainted sexual enhancement products that make claims to increase testosterone, prevent erectile dysfunction or boost stamina. According to the FDA, these products may cause potentially serious side effects and interact with other medications or dietary supplements. You can view a list of these products flagged by FDA at https://www.fda.gov/drugs/medication-health-fraud/tainted-sexual-enhancement-products

I don't believe this comes as much of a surprise to those who've been following events. From The Thai Enquirer Move Forward Party Leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, has been suspended from his duties as a Member of Parliament. The Constitutional Court made this decision in light of an ongoing investigation into his eligibility to hold office. The investigation stems from his ownership of 42,000 iTV shares. The Election Commission (EC) has stated that Pita may not meet the requirements for holding office due to his ownership of media shares, which is prohibited by the charter for political officeholders. As a result, the EC has requested the court to rule on Pita’s eligibility in this matter. The court has given Pita a 15-day deadline to provide a statement clarifying the allegations against him. There is no verdict yet. Pita has previously argued that he holds the shares in iTV as an administrator of his father’s inheritance. Additionally, he claims that iTV ceased broadcasting in 2007. In June, iTV itself clarified that it is no longer involved in the media business. However, critics contend that although iTV may have stopped broadcasting, it has continued to generate income from other sectors within the media industry. Even if he is suspended, it does not mean he cannot be nominated for the position of Prime Minister. According to the charter, a Prime Minister does not have to be a Member of Parliament. [Correction] The previous version of the article erroneously stated that the decision was unanimous. However, it should be clarified that the vote was 7-2.

Its website seems to be promoting it to compete for Jupiter clientele. https://www.facebook.com/circussoi4/

Agree that the players are very different now. Biden’s popularity is unlikely to improve and his running mate is less popular than he is. The best thing Biden has going for him is that he’s not Trump while Trump’s best thing is that he is. The role that fate will play is now the biggest unknown.

The last third party candidate to garner a significant portion (almost 19%) of the popular vote was Ross Perot in 1992. Although Clinton prevailed in that race, post election analysis found that Perot took equally from Democratic and Republican voters. In June of '92, Perot was actually leading the pack. Perot campaigned for greater funding for AIDS research and in a failed '96 bid came out in favor of gay rights.