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From VN Express British newspaper The Daily Telegraph has named My Khe and Non Nuoc in the central city of Da Nang in a list of 50 best beaches on the planet. The two beaches are described "best for atmosphere", according to the newspaper. The 900-meter-long My Khe, which runs from the base of the Son Tra Peninsula to the Marble Mountains, is famous for its smooth white sand and warm waters all year round. It also offers a variety of adventure sports activities. Located in Ngu Hanh Son District, around eight kilometers from downtown Da Nang, Non Nuoc beach is five kilometers long and dotted with a series of luxury resorts. From the beach, tourists can easily conquer the Marble Mountains, a complex of network of caves, tunnels, towers and pagodas. In addition to two Vietnamese representatives, other beaches praised included Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro, Palm West Beach in Dubai and Playa de La Concha in Spain. The list was compiled by travel experts based on criteria such as wildlife, striking panoramic views, atmospheric areas with bustling beach bars and attractions, destinations with luxurious hotels, quiet remote corners, family-friendly stretches of sand and more. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/best-beaches-in-the-world/

Thought JD Vance had a lock on that?

From Pattaya News A German tourist fell from a hotel in Pattaya after allegedly using cannabis and becoming paranoid. At 2:40 AM on August 14th, 2024, Pattaya police received a report of a foreign tourist falling from a luxury hotel, located on Soi 4, Pattaya Second Road, Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Police, The Pattaya News, and rescue volunteers immediately responded to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found the foreign tourist, identified as 21-year-old German national Mr. Manuel Marc Norbert Bukow, lying in pain. Rescue workers provided initial first aid before transporting him to a hospital for urgent medical attention. According to Mr. Panya Suelek, 36, a hotel security guard who witnessed the incident, he heard loud noises and went to check. He then saw Mr. Bukow sitting on the awning at the back of the hotel and tried to call him. The tourist, who appeared agitated and frightened, got up and ran along the awning, which eventually broke, causing him to fall and get injured. The security guard then called for rescue services.

There are a host of well-known contenders for the job,, according to this AP article. BANGKOK (AP) — A court in Thailand on Wednesday removed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office over an ethical violation, further shaking up Thai politics after the court-ordered dissolution of the main opposition party a week ago. The Constitutional Court ruled on a case involving Srettha's appointment of a Cabinet member who had been imprisoned in connection with an alleged attempt to bribe a court official. The court voted 5:4 against Srettha and the ruling removed him from office immediate The Cabinet will remain in place on a caretaker basis until Parliament approves a new prime minister. There is no time limit for Parliament to fill the position. The caretaker Cabinet could also dissolve Parliament and call a new election. The acting PM is expected to be Phumtham Wechayachai of the Pheu Thai party. Phumtham was first deputy prime minister and commerce minister under Srettha. If Parliament is given the task of choosing a new prime minister, it can select from a roster of candidates nominated for the post last year by the major political parties. The Pheu Thai Party, to which Srettha belongs, has two eligible candidates, including Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Another frontrunner would be Anutin Charnvirakul, head of the Bhumjaithai Party, which ran third in last year's election. He is currently a deputy prime minister and interior minister. Anuthin, a powerbroker in the vote-rich northeast whose family owns a major construction group, has served in both a military-backed government and the civilian one that it replaced. Also in the running would be two former senior military officers: Prayuth Chan-ocha, who served as prime minister for nine years after staging a coup in 2014, and Prawit Wongsuwan, who was one of Prayuth's deputy prime ministers. he acting PM is expected to be Phumtham Wechayachai of the Pheu Thai party. Phumtham was first deputy prime minister and commerce minister under Srettha. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/thai-prime-minister-srettha-thavisin-removed-from-office-by-court-order-over-an-ethics-violation/ar-AA1oM5yu#

Handsome, muscular, masculine and fierce, He made my short list with points to spare.

Thank God you're gay! 🙂

It will take one satisfying encounter to change your mind.

From The Nation The northern province of Lamphun unveiled its latest tourist attraction on Saturday (August 10) – the Wat Doi Ti Skywalk – which offers panoramic views of mountain landmarks in Lamphun and Chiang Mai. Tourists visiting this glass-bottomed skywalk will be able to see the Si Kru Ba pagoda and Wat Phra Phutthabat Tak Pha, two of Lamphun’s iconic religious attractions from up top, provincial governor Suntitorn Yimlamai said after cutting the ribbon. They can also see Chiang Mai’s Doi Suthep and Doi Inthanon, the latter being the tallest mountain in Thailand at 2,600 metres above sea level. Near the skywalk on the mountaintop is a shrine to Kru Ba Sri Wichai, one of the most revered monks in Thailand that houses the largest statue of him in the kingdom, the governor added. Continues with photos https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40040525

From Bangkok Post Guest lecturers under fire for Move Forward dissolution ruling Student activists at Thammasat and Chulalongkorn universities have launched campaigns against two Constitutional Court judges who are also guest lecturers at their institutions. This follows the court's ruling last Wednesday, which led to the disbandment of the Move Forward Party (MFP). On Saturday, Thammasat University Student Council Rangsit Campus and the committee of students studying in the Faculty of Law posted an open letter on Facebook encouraging law students at Thammasat to sign a petition seeking to have Udom Rathamarit, a Constitutional Court judge, dismissed as a special lecturer. These student groups accused the judge of failing to set a good example and of embarrassing the law circle with an interpretation of the constitution in the Move Forward ruling that did not conform to his own teaching. The groups intend to submit the signatures to the dean of Thammasat's Faculty of Law on Wednesday. Continues at https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2845927/guest-lecturers-under-fire-for-move-forward-dissolution-ruling

Phuket Struggles with Overwhelming Tourism Growth From Thailand News Agency The once pristine island of Phuket is facing a growing crisis as its rapid tourism expansion outpaces infrastructure development. Congested roads are environmental degradation are threatening the island’s reputation as a premier tourist destination. Phuket’s main thoroughfare, Thepkrasattri Road, is notorious for its gridlock, causing significant inconvenience to both residents and visitors. This chronic traffic congestion, coupled with issues such as water shortages during the dry season and severe flooding during the rainy season, has led to widespread frustration. “If you come to Phuket, you’ll face flooding, drought, and traffic jams. Who will come? “said Adisak Akkasinthawangkul, an advisor to the Phuket Community Network. “It takes two to three hours to get anywhere. We, as citizens, demand a seamless public transportation system to accommodate the growing number of condominiums and other developments.” Suksit Suvarnditkul, President of the Southern Thailand Hotel Association, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the urgent need for infrastructure improvements. “Road and land transportation are major problems for Phuket,” he said. “To accommodate future tourism growth, we need to expedite projects like expressways and expand our port facilities to handle cruise ships. A new airport project must be accelerated to handle the projected increase in passenger traffic.” Despite Phuket’s continuous tourism growth, there are questions about whether this growth is directionless. Comparisons with Singapore with a similar land area, highlight the stark contrast in urban planning. Singapore’s “City in a Garden” concept has resulted in a highly livable environment with abundant green spaces with a tree density of 29.3%. In contrast, Phuket has experienced significant deforestation for new construction projects. Continues at https://tna.mcot.net/english-news-1404988

In a comprehensive talk at the Pattaya City Expats Club on July 31, Kevin Kirk delved into the intricate tapestry of Myanmar’s history, the ongoing conflicts, and the geopolitical chess game influencing the region’s future. Displaying a map of the area, he provided an overview of Myanmar’s geography and its strategic position between China, India, and Southeast Asia. Kevin traced Myanmar’s tumultuous journey from the colonial era to its current state, marked by internal strife and external interests. He detailed Myanmar’s colonial past, the Anglo-Burmese Wars, and the British East India Company’s role in shaping the country’s history.

Or 39 Underground in Saphan Kwai. Mostly local crowd but farangs are welcome.

Know that stairwell very well. Use to climb it almost daily when Nakarat Massage occupied third floor. Many happy memories. 🙂

+1

There certainly appears to be a relative correlation between attractive facial features in two category of events: diving and gymnastics. Goes without saying that all have great bodies necessary for the their sports but the abundance of cute and handsome faces (in both men and women) is overwhelming.

Inquire at the bus stop about saunas, too. 🙂

Or "mia nois" 🙂

In any club, but especially those above street level, I'd familiarize myself with stairwell egress. In case of fire, lift could easy stop operating. You can always try asking staff upon entering about location. Many clubs block access to prevent customers from leaving without paying.. Not unusual to see high death tolls in such situations. Floridarob had brought this up before about other Silom clubs.

The topic of education in SE Asian countries comes up from time to time. Hoping this initiative bears fruit in long run. From Phnom Penh Post In Cambodia, where the youth population is burgeoning, the right to education has become more critical than ever. As the nation develops, ensuring that every child – regardless of their abilities or background – has access to quality learning is a formidable challenge requiring concerted efforts from all sectors of society. Education in the country is undergoing significant reforms, with various initiatives aimed at improving access, quality and inclusivity. A key development is the launch of the Inclusive Education Action Plan 2024-2028, supported by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport and UNICEF. The plan focuses on providing quality schooling to all children, including those with disabilities. It aims to change societal attitudes, provide necessary tools and support and foster collaboration among various stakeholders. "The EU believes that education for all is the key to unlocking the potential of Cambodian youth and is essential for reducing poverty and creating jobs in the country," said Koen Everaert, deputy head of cooperation for the EU Delegation to Cambodia. "Inclusive education for persons with disabilities provides equal opportunities and recognises the importance of their contribution to the sustainable development of the country," he added. Continues with photos at https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/bridging-gaps-in-education-for-cambodia-s-children

From Khaosod English BANGKOK — “The Boyfriend,” Japan’s first reality show focused on romantic relationships among men, has captured worldwide attention since Netflix released its teaser. The show marks a significant moment in Japanese media, shifting from traditional formats like manga, movies, and series to explore love and relationships across genders through reality TV. Over 10 episodes, nine men aged 22-36, including Japanese nationals and those of mixed Brazilian, South Korean, and Taiwanese heritage, engage in activities designed to spark romantic connections. These participants, who come from various backgrounds—students, designers, models, baristas, artists, chefs, dancers, and IT professionals—spend a month together in a tranquil seaside house, far from Yokohama city. Some identify as gay or bisexual, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s evolving attitudes towards gender diversity amidst a conservative society. The show’s popularity reflects a broader cultural shift in Japan, where public discussions about sexuality and gender diversity are uncommon. “The Boyfriend” quickly climbed to the top of Netflix Japan’s TV show charts and has also found success in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, and Thailand. Continues with photos at https://www.khaosodenglish.com/life/entertainment/2024/08/12/japans-the-boyfriend-insights-from-a-thai-born-transgender-resident/

For the past three weeks rarely has a done passed without a headline about this species of tasty tilapia. From Bangkok Post The Lawyers Council of Thailand is planning to file a lawsuit against private companies and state agencies which are responsible for the unchecked spread of blackchin tilapia, an invasive species from west Africa which is quickly taking over the country's waterways. A team of lawyers from the council on Sunday set up a booth at Wat Khao Yi San in Samut Songkhram's Amphawa district, where residents who have been affected by the invasive fish species could register to take part in the lawsuit or submit evidence showing the damage caused by non-native fish species. As of Sunday afternoon, 214 fish farmers had registered to take part in the lawsuit at the booth in tambon Yi San. The team had set up a booth for the same purpose in tambon Phraek Nam Daeng on Aug 2, where 57 fish farmers signed on to take part in the lawsuit. Nitthrarat Paetwong, head of Samut Songkhram's branch of the Lawyers Council of Thailand, said the council and the Office of Administrative Cases Commission will file a civil case against those they believe caused the spread of blackchin tilapia in the country, to demand compensation. It is still unknown how many people are affected or how far the damage bill extends. Continues at https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2845511/thai-lawyers-to-sue-over-tilapia-invasion

The following has been discussed in other posts by Isaan Lawyers. I now leave it to our in-house legal experts to pass judgement. From Pattaya News When a foreign national dies in Thailand without a will, the process of handling their estate can be complex. Here’s a detailed look at what happens presented by our sponsors and friends at Issan Lawyers. Application of Thai Law Thai inheritance law applies to the estate of any person who dies in Thailand, including foreign nationals. This means that if a foreigner dies intestate (without a will), their estate will be distributed according to Thai statutory inheritance laws. Distribution of the Estate The estate of the deceased will be distributed among the statutory heirs as defined by Thai law. These heirs are categorized into six classes, similar to those for Thai nationals: 1. **Descendants**: Children and grandchildren. 2. **Parents**: The deceased’s mother and father. 3. **Brothers and Sisters of Full Blood**: Siblings who share both parents with the deceased. 4. **Brothers and Sisters of Half Blood**: Siblings who share only one parent with the deceased. 5. **Grandparents**: Both paternal and maternal grandparents. 6. **Uncles and Aunts**: The siblings of the deceased’s parents. Probate Process The probate process involves the court appointing an estate administrator to manage and distribute the estate. This process is necessary to ensure that the estate is handled according to the law and that all heirs receive their rightful share. Foreign Property and Assets Foreign nationals may have assets both in Thailand and in their home country. Thai courts generally handle the distribution of assets located within Thailand. For assets located outside Thailand, the laws of the respective country will apply. It’s important to note that a will made in the foreign national’s home country may not cover property in Thailand, leading to potential complications. Special Considerations for Foreigners – Inheritance of Land: Foreigners can inherit land in Thailand, but they must receive approval from the Minister of Interior. The share of land that a foreigner can inherit is subject to certain limitations. – Foreign Wills: Foreign wills can be recognized in Thailand, but they must meet specific legal requirements. It is advisable for foreign nationals to create a will in Thailand to ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes. Conclusion Dying without a will in Thailand can lead to a complex legal process, especially for foreign nationals. The estate is distributed among statutory heirs according to Thai law, and the court may need to appoint an administrator to manage the estate. To avoid potential complications and ensure that your wishes are honored, it is advisable for foreign nationals to create a will that complies with Thai law.

A reason to hope... From Bangkok Post Move Forward Party’s reincarnation challenge dismissed The secretary-general of the Election Commission (EC) has dismissed a challenge to the status of the People's Party, the reincarnation of the disbanded Move Forward Party, saying the new party has just opened branches in all regions of the country. EC secretary-general Sawang Boonmee said on Monday that last week the Thinkakhaochaovilai Party, which was since renamed as the People’s Party, held a meeting to open branches in all regions as required by law to maintain its political party status, and the party had already reported the branch openings to the political party registrar. The report had just arrived and had yet to be verified, so the EC website had yet to be updated accordingly, said Mr Sawang, who is also the political party registrar. Continues at https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2845803/move-forward-partys-reincarnation-challenge-dismissed

For eye candy value, my favorite athletes were all east Asian with the exception of the diver from Mexico. Based on individual and team performance, there were too many worldwide to mention. I tip my hat to France for hosting a grand affair.

From Bangkok Post Move Forward Party’s reincarnation challenged The royalist leader of the Thai Pakdee Party has demanded a probe into the status of the People’s Party to which MPs of the disbanded Move Forward Party (MFP) have just moved, questioning whether the destination party has enough branches to be qualified. Thai Pakdee Party leader Dr Warong Dechgitvigrom said on his Facebook page on Sunday that he would ask the Election Commission (EC) to investigate whether the People's Party should be disqualified for having too few branches. He said that the People’s Party was the renamed version of the old Thinkakhaochaovilai Party but he doubted that it had enough branches nationwide to maintain its political party status. Dr Warong said the law governing political parties stipulated that a party would be automatically disqualified if it did not have at least one branch per region for one year. He said he learned from the EC website that the Thinkakhaochaovilai Party, founded in 2012, had three branches: two in the North and one in the Central Plains. It did not have a branch in the South and the Northeast. “For transparency, the EC must check it and inform people of the details of its branches on a yearly basis,” Dr Warong said. “If the Thinkakhaochaovilai Party has not had branches in four regions for one year, it will lose its status by the law. This means that the People’s Party cannot use the disqualified party,” he said. He said that his party would file a petition on the issue with the EC. Shortly after the Constitutional Court dissolved the election-winning Move Forward Party last week, MFP MPs moved to the People’s Party to maintain their MP status. The People’s Party announced in its Facebook page on Sunday that it received donations worth more than 20 million baht altogether within 32 hours and almost 40,000 people applied to become members in less than two days. The main opposition party announced it would form a single-party government after the next general election. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2845411/move-forward-partys-reincarnation-challenged