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Brexit makes the Thai political system look downright rational.

The following article from Singapore-baes Channel News Asia presents an objective and comprehensive take on the elections without touching on controversial topics. From Channel News Asia (12 Mar. 12) For the first time in nearly five years, Thailand will leave the military rule for democracy. Here is what you need to know about the Thai election on Mar 24 and the political game that would determine its future. BANGKOK: The upcoming election in Thailand is set to be one of the most complicated votes in the country’s history, with the final outcome of who will form the next government dependent on a series of factors. On a very simple level, though, the vote on Mar 24 will be the first general election under the new Constitution of 2017. It should mark a transition towards re-establishing a democratically elected government after nearly five years of rule by a military regime which took power through a coup in 2014. However, while some people believe the upcoming election will restore democracy, others believe there is scope for a subtler shift that could see the powerful military maintain its grip on Thai politics. “It’s not a regular vote under democratic rules but a means for regime change, where the military rule is reborn to continue its power,” said political scientist Dr Pitch Pongsawat from Bangkok’s Chulalongkorn University. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-election-democracy-after-military-rule-11280022

My intent is not to derail the thread but the many posts jostled my memory back to 1970’s San Francisco when the Campus theater was sort of a crude Moonlight of its day. Rick Donovan is the model I recall best. William Higgins made him one of the top stars of his well-done films. Rick appeared from time to time as did other headliners of the day. He’d do some stuff on stage before walking down the isle to allow guests to deposit bills and inspect the merchandise that was the talk of the town. It was before internet and word about places like this came via word of mouth and guides like Spartacus. A different era to be sure but Campus earned all the hype Moonlight does today.

If you plan to return to Thailand you may find that it’s a good practice to retain sufficient local currency to cover your anticipated spending on first night of next trip. Once less hassle on arrival when you have other priorities. If you plan to use travelers checks, fewer banks seem to be accepting them. In Silom Complex, Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) still does but the agent specified American Express. Consistently i find that SuperRich provides the best currency exchange rate. The location on Silom (near Arena masssage) May be slightly better than Silom Complex location but probably not worth going out of your way on a steamy day. Silom Complex branch closes at 8p.m. Also note that after about 9p..m., the rates at independent currency exchange booths along Silom and Surawong become less favorable.

This Netflix series isn’t the only film project in the works about the saga. One, “the Cave,” was shot last year and is now in post production. Here’s a BBC article with photos of the filming. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-46644840 Additionally, National Geographic was said to be working on a documentary (“One Day in September”) about the rescue. An older documentary made by an Australian network can be found in an August, 2018, post adove. While researching this topic, a few things seem evident: first, multiple projects are involved; second, we are aware of only tidbits of information about the precise contract terms and compensation packages agreed to by the parties involved. But it seems clear that these brave boys who captured our imagination for so many days have had the course of their lives irrevocably altered both historically and financially. in the efforts I made to learn more about these productions I didn’t came across any mention that the boys were misrepresented, taken advantage of or were victims of a weak negotiating position. My research wasn’t exhaustive and would hope that anyone who finds such evidence would post the details in this thread. What separates the Netflix production is that it involves a series. Given the company’s global presence and huge subscriber base, the potential for success is heightened. Here’s an article from the film from Variety that describes the Netflix project. https://variety.com/2019/digital/asia/thai-cave-rescue-series-netflix-sk-global-1203158133/

If the boys accept the 3 million baht each, they accept the terms of their contract. Not really different than anyone who signs a contract. If you don’t like the terms and compensation, you reject the offer.

Can confirm that what was formerly known as priority lane is now called fast track operated by contractor. I believe it accommodates all carriers that subscribe to it. The fast track pass card you are given by airline is now collected before you are admitted to immigration agent queues. Otherwise, it seemed to function as old system. You can also pre-pay for service if you don’t get it as perk. https://bangkokfasttrack.com/

From The Nation (5 Mar.) Krungsri first bank in Thailand to use facial recognition tech to open accounts Krungsri (Bank of Ayudhya) has introduced facial recognition through electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) technology for verifying the identities of people as they open a deposit account. Under the Bank of Thailand’s regulatory sandbox, the technology enables an upgrade of the bank’s verification process and accuracy toward international standards. Now available for customers at Krungsri branches, the facial recognition for e-KYC will also be deployed when customers open their passbook via mobile application by the end of the second quarter. The breakthrough technology reflects the bank’s commitment as a leader in digital banking and innovation development for ultimate customer satisfaction, said Phonganant Thanattrai, Krungsri head of retail banking and distribution group. The identity proofing process using facial comparison will enhance the security of identity verification, reduce risk of mistakes in the proofing process, and prevent identity theft and fraudulent transactions, while maintaining a convenient and speedy process for account opening, said Phonganant. In its initial state, the facial recognition technology will be adopted when customers open a deposit account by matching the cardholder’s face to the photo on their citizen ID card as presented at the branch. Krungsri staff will use the comparison result to when considering allowing a passbook account to be opened. Meanwhile, Krungsri is planning extensive use of facial recognition technology for opening an account via a mobile application within the second quarter of 2019, Phonganant said. http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/Corporate/30365225

From Khaosod English (7 Mar.) THAI CAVE RESCUE TO GET NETFLIX SERIES BANGKOK — Last year’s dramatic cave rescue operation in northern Thailand is going to be made into a Netflix Original series, Thai officials said Thursday. The series will be produced by SK Global Entertainment, which has been granted lifetime exclusive rights to direct contact with the 13 members of the Wild Boars football team, according to government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipak. The 12 boys and coach were trapped nearly two weeks in the Chiang Rai province cave before their miraculous rescue. Lt. Gen. Werachon said the 13 Wild Boars would earn about 3 million baht each from the production, with some money going to organizations and foundations who were involved in the rescue operation. Sirisak Kotpatcharin, spokesman for the company set up to manage media rights for the Wild Boars story, said the boys and the coach will no longer be allowed to give interviews about their experience without the company’s permission. http://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2019/03/07/thai-cave-rescue-to-get-netflix-series-officials/

From Khaosod English (7 Mar.) BANGKOK — Each year calls to ban alcohol during Thai New Year’s festive and watery days grow louder, and this year health officials say they’re want to make it a reality. The Department of Disease Control said it will ask the government to suspend booze sales on April 13, the first of the three-day New Year’s festival known as Songkran. Officials said the measure would help reduce deaths caused by drunk driving during the holidays. Department deputy director Kajornsak Kaeojaras told reporters the agency will formally submit the proposal to the cabinet next week. The department first approved the idea in February. Drunk driving was cited as the second leading cause of Songkran traffic accidents last year, after speeding. Kajornsak said most DUI cases took place April 13, the first day of the festival. He dismissed concerns the measure could damage the economy, which depends heavily on tourists and revelers. “The economy doesn’t rely on a single day,” Kajornsak said. Reactions on social media were mixed. Many criticized the policy as impractical, while others agreed it would lessen alcohol-fueled accidents on Songkran. “At least it’s better than doing nothing,” Chana Pratarnporn wrote. “Some people may say vendors can still sell to them in secret, but at least it will make it difficult to drink … the best way is to adjust drinkers’ habits.” “The most important thing is their sense of responsibility. When they drink, they shouldn’t drive at all. This is the best way, but I also agree that this policy will reduce some risks,” Chalatorn Sirisapya wrote. Thitipong Pungyam said it would “destroy the economy and tourism.” “Maybe [the government] should see it this way: People have been exhausting themselves with work all year round. They need to relax with their friends and families, too.” Thitipong wrote in reply to an online news thread fielding opinions on the proposal. The authorities have already implemented anti-booze measures during Songkran, such as banning sales of alcohol where revelers gather for water fights. Such prohibitions are widely ignored and little enforced each year. It is also unclear whether the government will approve. In 2014, junta chairman Prayuth Chan-ocha rejected a proposal by the same department to ban booze sales during all of the New Year holidays.4 http://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2019/03/07/govt-weighs-songkran-booze-ban/

Quickest way to get in and out of Swampy is to learn to travel light. You avoid one of the biggest time eaters if you don’t check bags. It’s not like you have to have a large range of clothes for different occasions. You can wash stuff in your room and it will dry overnight. Or use a laundry. If you find yourself with more possessions on the return trip than you brought in, you can always buy an inexpensive bag and check it on the way home when the stress of gettting downtown isn’t a factor.

Forget the whole transaction. There are too many good guys on offer in the big mango to warrant drawn out negotiations. Never lose sight of the rule: distance lends enchantment.

Tundra88.... Introductory post... Sounds like a poster who knows a bit about how a “hustle” works.

And this malady is not uncommon among non-Thais: “How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take that splinter out of your eye,' when all the while you yourself do not see the beam in your own eye?’ “ I don’t give any credence to political correctness, either. But I don’t think this is a matter of PC attitudes. I believe it’s more a matter of simply being open to not judging Thais—or other SE Asians—by the same scale we might employ at home. Have you been unlucky? It certainly seems possible that your expectations and methods have not met with a hell of a lot of success. You’re entitled to rationalize your experiences in any manner you choose. But you shouldn’t be surprised when others stress very different views.

From News in Flight (4 Mar.) Thai Airways reported a massive loss of 11.6 billion baht (USD 365 million) for FY2018 Thailand’s state-owned flagship carrier, Thai Airways reported a massive net loss of 11.6 billion baht (USD 365 million) for FY2018, spiked by higher oil prices and competition. The losses are up 552% from previous years loss of 2.1 billion baht (USD66 million). Airline’s operating income rose 3.9% year-over-year as it still operates 747s and fly only wide-body aircraft, coupled with higher oil prices. Thai Airways’s market share has been snatched away by Gulf carriers that offer better products and excellent fares in middle east to Bangkok routes. Airline also failed to refurbish its business class to attract many business class travellers while many other airlines offer great comfort flying for business travellers. In 2018, the 5t5 took delivery of five new planes and retired three to bring their fleet size to 103 planes. http://newsinflight.com/2019/03/04/thai-airways-reported-a-massive-loss-of-11-6-billion-baht-usd-365-million-for-

The guys I’ve met in bars, clubs and massage shops never came across as victims of arrested development. Regardless of whether they’re fromThailand or the surrounding countries, they’ve managed to make the best of whatever education they had. More so, they show themselves frequently to be very quick studies. You have to have initiative and some strong resolve to leave your family behind and strike out on your own in the big city. No, not all fare well but that’s no different wherever in the world you come from. I’ve come to respect a lot of these guys. i don’t shop on line but I suspect there’s little difference.

Thai has long history of poor fleet management. The following article describes the purchase of 10 A340 aircraft, which has caused most carriers to abandon it because it was so unprofitable to operate. Thai tried a few times to solicit bids on their grounded ones but rejected all offers because they were insulted by the lowball responses. Wouldn’t be shocked if some—if not all—still sit idle at Don Muang. Unsurprisingly, corruption was suspected in the original purchase and an investigation was called for. Haven’t a clue as to if one was ever conducted. http://www.nationmultimedia.com/news/national/30305056

From Khaosod English (3 Mar.) BANGKOK — An independent drama exploring a tragic love story of two men through the lens of Buddhism brought the most awards home from the biggest annual film awards ceremony. “Malila: The Farewell Flower,” which came into the night with a dozen nominations, took away seven Golden Swans including Best Picture, Best Director on Saturday night at the 28th Thailand National Film Association Awards Ceremony. The film was directed by rising transgender director Anucha Boonyawatana. She was also named best director for the film at the Singapore International Film Festival and India’s International Film Festival Kerala in 2017. Continues with video http://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2019/03/03/indie-lgbt-film-cleans-house-at-suphannahong-awards/

A dissatisfied workforce responsible for making iPhones may portend quality control problems ahead for Apple. South China Morning Post (3 Mar.) Foxconn, a tale of slashed salaries, disappearing benefits and mass resignations as iPhone orders dry up Workers line up on a daily basis to leave the world’s largest iPhone assembly plant in China’s Henan province as overtime opportunities plunged Apple CEO Tim Cook announced in January a 5 per cent fall in fourth quarter revenue, attributed in large part to weaker demand for new iPhones in China It issued a normal Saturday in Zhengzhou, the capital of central China’s Henan province. The sky over the Foxconn factory complex is obscured with a choking smog. Under the hazy sunset, hordes of workers have started to walk out of the production facility. The crowd thins out quickly. But working conditions inside the world’s largest iPhone assembly plant are not normal, as weaker demand for the mobile phones assembled inside the vast 1.4 million square metre (15 million square feet) facility has led to lower salaries and reduced benefits from Apple’s largest supplier. The shuttle bus service to the workers’ gloomy dormitory compound has been cancelled, forcing some to walk for up to 40 minutes to get to their rooms. The cancellation of the shuttle service is routine during the Lunar New Year holiday, but normally it resumes when production picked up again. But not this year, as the service was cancelled earlier this month, long before The cancellation of the shuttle service is routine during the Lunar New Year holiday, but normally it resumes when production picked up again. But not this year, as the service was cancelled earlier this month, long before. Continues with photo and video https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/2188162/foxconn-tale-slashed-salaries-disappearing-benefits-and-mass

Only if you’re trying to reserve a specific guy.. Otherwise it seems to operate on a rotational basis.

I began posting about Nakarat sometime in late 2017, I believe. And today I’m posting about my experience there this week. For those new to the shop, it’s easy to find at the entrance to silom soi 4. The shop itself is on third floor above restaurant but you’ll find most of the guys (many from VN) on Silom and perhaps a few more around the corner on 4. The rooms are adequate with tables but only one has and en-suite shower. There are two small showers down the hall with soap, shampoo and hw. There are some separate, very cramped rooms for Thai massage with mats on floor (these are not well suited for anything else). One hour oil is 450, 90 min. 600. Most guys will begin by automatically asking 2k. I counter with 1.3 (this is what I usually pay in Silom for one hour). I did so again this time and it was agreed to. When he leaned in against my hand, the massage took the usual course to a satisfactory conclusion for both parties. Have lost count of how many times I’ve used Nakarat but I’m sure it’s in double figures. I appreciate the selection and convenience of the location. There’s been, I estimate, a 20-25% turnover since my last visit.

Visited this shop a few days ago and found that it matched DM’s description in all respects. There were three guy-next-door types sitting on a bench when I arrived about 5. All smiled and one stood to greet me and led me down sub-soi to shop. Chose one hour oil (450) and taken to room on first floor with table. It was clean as was the shower down the hall which had ample soap and hw. All facilities appear to be on first floor. Soft mood music in background. My guy (mid-20’s from Isan) had a little English and asked usual questions. His technique was smooth with moderate pressure. He respected my request for nit noy oil. When I began to notice his growing interest in the proceedings, we reversed roles and I became the masseur. (Vinapu, I believe, is one of the few other members who fully appreciates this maneuver). I offered 1200 and it was gladly accepted. When I left about 6, there were 2 new faces on the bench, either of whom would give me cause to return. This is a neighborhood shop located in an accessible (to Silom) area were westerners are not uncommon. I spotted a handful of other massage shops on both sides of street (including a branch of Art Massage so we’ll represented on Surawong). A tip of the cap to DM for taking the effort to bring this to our arrention.

From CNBC (27 Feb.) You can't overfly China, so you have to overfly Pakistan and India and go to Southeast Asia and Australia. Most of the traffic destined for Bangkok and Singapore will have to fly over Iran and then possibly take a detour," he said. https://www.cnbc.com/amp/2019/02/27/reuters-america-update-3-commercial-flights-to-and-from-pakistan-india-disrupted-as-tensions-rise.html

But once the debit card is used, the cash is instantly gone from your account. With a regular credit card (those issued by US banks anyway) you have significantly enhanced fraud and other protections than debit cards afford. And most credit cards allow accumulation of points or cash-back option.

Shonen, all of us here are at that age where stuff just seems to happen. Thanks for sharing your experience and I, like the rest, wish you Godspeed to recovery. It is tempting to seek something that that promises to turn back the clock and give us our youthful vitality back. And maybe there are potions out there that have succeeded for some. But the harsh reality rarely supports the search for short cuts. Human growth hormones and testosterone have been billed as magic bullets, but these bullets can carry serious side effects as others have mentioned above. By all means, seek out a doctor with expertise in the matter and ask many questions. And be careful of your dug source if you decide this is the right course for you. I did have my levels checked and were told that they were within normal range. However I was still tempted to experiment only to decide against it. As much as I’d love to be able to splash the backboard again, those days are buried somewhere in the rear view mirror, although happily I might add. The guys we meet prove themselves wonderfully understanding in this regard Would like to thank the OP for starting this thread. It’s been and education. Btw, if you’re among the lucky ones who have discovered some form of that elusive fountain of youth, I am in envy.