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From The Nation Members of the red-shirt movement held a motorcade in Chiang Mai on Wednesday to rouse supporters to join them in welcoming former PM Thaksin Shinawatra when he arrives on Thursday. Thaksin will be visiting Chiang Mai for the first time in 17 years, after spending more than a decade in self-imposed exile overseas. Joining the motorcade on Wednesday were red-shirt supporters from Lopburi, Nonthaburi and Pathum Thani. More red-shirt supporters are expected to join them from other provinces, including Lamphun, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Phitsanulok and Nakhon Sawan to name a few. Some of the supporters told local press that they had travelled from Lopburi to join the welcoming crowds on Thursday and had participated in the motorcade on Wednesday. They added that they had travelled to Chiang Mai on their own accord and were excited that Thaksin was returning home. When asked if they wanted him to return to politics, they said they preferred him in the position of adviser, so younger politicians can get a chance in the field. Thaksin will take his private jet to Chiang Mai on Thursday and will be staying in his home at the Summit Green Valley Chiang Mai Country Club. His family will be joining him the following day to make merit and pay respects to ancestors before the former leader returns to Bangkok on Saturday. Thaksin is being allowed to spend some time in his hometown despite being under parole for the rest of his one-year sentence.

From The Nation Time magazine has placed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on the cover of its March 25 edition, calling him “The Salesman”. “I want to tell the world that Thailand is open for business again,” Srettha tells Time’s Charlie Campbell, during a wide-ranging interview held in a Government House room “ringed by whiteboards chock-full of scrawled policy objectives: digital wallets, national aviation hubs, potash mining, Tesla”. Srettha stares from the cover with a look of determination on his face, arms crossed over his chest. The prime minister’s efforts since taking office last August have already paid dividends, Time says, noting that foreign direct investment in the fourth quarter of 2023 doubled from a year earlier as Amazon Web Services, Google and Microsoft inked deals worth a combined US$8.3 billion or 296 billion baht. But Srettha has inherited a stagnating economy, soaring inequality and a politically divided country from the previous “quasi-military” government, it adds. Thailand’s GDP growth “has been below 2% over the past decade, while neighbours like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam registered double to triple that rate and ate Thailand’s lunch on FDI”. Srettha freely acknowledges the depth of his challenge, telling the American news icon that Thailand is in an “economic crisis”. However, Time says the country feels “shortchanged by his election” after Srettha’s Pheu Thai party came second to Move Forward, which was then blocked from forming a government by a military-appointed Senate. “The paradox is that Srettha is fighting to fix Thailand’s economy by partnering with the same forces invested in thwarting major reform,” the magazine says. Continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/politics/40036342

Pope was not speaking ex-cathedra, merely responding off the cff to a clever interviewer who first used the "white flag" analogy. Since then the Vatican has been walking back the comment in the time-honored fashion: putting it in context.

About half the guys I encounter in Bangkok are tattooed (common among those from Myanmar and Isan). I find them attractive. Even if it's a just a thumbs up gesture, I make it a point to compliment them early on in the session. Good ice breaker and puts them at ease.

Ratheeer!

That would be true if site was called "Travelloca". But since it's "Traveloka" it means "travel okay" in Spanish and English. Mind you that doesn't mean of course that queens aren't necessarily crazy. 🙂

In the end, both versions seem to function quite well. Never had a reason to reject one that appeared in good health. Given the average age of members, the next one they come head to head with won't be their first rodeo. They pretty much know how they work. Confidence is high you'll come away satisfied.

A local friend called my attention to this flight/hotel booking site that specializes in SE Asia destinations. Watched him book flight and was impressed by choices. prices and speed of transaction. https://www.traveloka.com/en-en

Would like to think so. But like most electronics, auto pilot only as good as input data loaded by pilots before flight.

+1 You might also wish to take them on a short field trip. Go down Surawong and pass by the massage shops. Plenty of cooked food vendors and attractive masseurs (or masseuses, depending on preference) along the way. If they seem to enjoy themselves, turn left on Soi Tarntawan (at 7-11) and continue to Soi 6 to complete the tour. I do it almost nightly and never seems to lose its charm.

From The Thaiger The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) announced that a discount of roughly 20% will be applied to early morning and late-night domestic flights during the Songkran holiday. This move is aimed at providing an economical travel option for all holidaymakers. Sarun Benjanirat, the deputy director-general of CAAT, disclosed today, March 11, that the initiative is in response to the call by Transport Minister Suriya Juangruangreangkit for reduced airfares during holiday and festive periods. As part of this initiative, six airlines have scheduled an additional 104 flights, which will provide 17,874 extra seats on April 11, 12, 15, and 16. These flights will be scheduled outside ordinary hours, either early in the morning or late at night, to attract travellers with lower fares. The discount is expected to be around 20%, offering an affordable solution for Songkran travel, according to Benjanirat. These additional flights will serve routes to Phuket, Chiang Mai, Samui, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, and Khon Kaen. Benjanirat added that reservations could be made in advance via the airlines’ websites, which should be prepared to accept bookings from Tuesday onwards, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, Thai AirAsia responded to calls for airfare reductions, citing increased operational costs during the pandemic. They proposed adding more flights during the Songkran festival to manage fares. The airline emphasised adjusting prices based on route demand and seasonality, rejecting the idea of minimum pricing. Thai AirAsia aims for 15-20% revenue growth, planning to expand its fleet and routes.

From The Nation Argentinian fans of the Japanese creator of Dragon Ball gathered on Sunday (March 10) at Buenos Aires’ iconic obelisk to remember Akira Toriyama, the creator of the manga comic on which the cartoon was based. For access to video from the streets, click on: https://www.nationthailand.com/vdo/in-focus/40036285

NOTE -- Why is Pattaya the last stop or so many foreigners? From Pattaya News A Russian man was found hanged in a forest in Pattaya on Sunday morning, March 10th. Pattaya Police responded to a report of a deceased foreigner found in a forest along Thepprasit Road Soi 9, Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province, at 9:27 AM. The body was located within a large, 20-rai forest, roughly 20-30 meters from the road and only accessible on foot. The deceased, believed to be a 40-year-old male of Russian nationality, was found sitting on his knees with a robe tied between his neck and a tree. The victim wore a black round-necked shirt, grey floral-patterned shorts, and black flip-flops. A mobile phone was discovered in his pants pocket. A water bottle was found close by, but no identification documents were found. Mr. Chusak Saetiao, a 46-year-old resident who reported the incident, told The Pattaya News that a motorbike taxi driver rushed to him around 8:00 AM to alert him about the body. He did not recognize the deceased and mentioned that foreign tourists, especially Russians, often visit the Soi. However, Mr. Chusak recalled hearing dogs barking around 3-4 AM the prior night but did not pay attention to it until the morning discovery. Pattaya Police reviewed nearby surveillance footage, which captured the deceased at around 3:38 AM. The footage shows him using his phone’s flashlight to navigate his way into the forest while holding a water bottle in his left hand. The victim entered the forest, briefly returned, but then re-entered at 3:39 AM and disappeared from view. The investigation remains ongoing. The body was transported to the Police General Hospital for a thorough autopsy. Authorities are collaborating with immigration officials to establish the deceased’s identity.

NOTE -- Was Barry K reading Vinapu's mind--or recent post--about Pattaya, and Soi 6 in particular? From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon Stickman Bangkok, the leading bar and club commentator since 1998, claims boldly that Pattaya has shaken off its seedy reputation. In his weekly online article, for March 10, he argues Pattaya is moving rapidly towards diversification and respectability. What was once a playground for middle-aged white men is now very much a family holiday destination. For Stickman, Peak Pattaya was from 1998 to 2010 when the resort had transformed from something of a backwater beach destination to a developed (but not over-developed) resort which managed to maintain the old vibes but with more choices of places to go, shop and sleep. It was still a place dominated by middle-aged white men. Today, Stickman concludes, Pattaya is bland by comparison and not anymore off-beat or risque. Most old timers in Pattaya are going to agree with Stickman who, like Martin Luther at the time of the Reformation, said aloud what lots of people were thinking anyhow. Today’s Pattaya is a concrete jungle, as everyone sees on arrival, and is no longer a bargain for the economy tourist. The sex-dominated districts, such as Soi Six and Soi Buakhao, are fewer in number and probably less fun than they once were. Mobile phones have replaced furtive glances as you pass by. The Walking Street has changed beyond all recognition, more upmarket and with a future likely dominated by Indian dance clubs and bars essentially catering for Asian travellers. Stickman does not mention the gay scene centered on Jomtien Complex and Boyztown – he usually claims his readers wouldn’t be interested – but the changes there are significant too. Pickup bars and gogo joints have largely been superseded by businesses offering entertaining drag shows, which even your grandmother might enjoy, and relaxing venues where social rather than sexual intercourse seems to be the dominant conversation. Still, they are busy most nights. Putting the sex back in Pattaya, as you might say, isn’t an option. The Thai government is currently busy offering visa free travel to the diverse mega-markets of Russia, China and India amongst others. As Thailand’s birth rate continues to decline, largely because of the expense of raising families, young Thais have better options than selling their bodies. Pattaya’s successful MICE market (meetings and conventions etc.), the expanding five-star accommodation options, the much misunderstood Eastern Economic Corridor, the diversification of entertainment facilities catering for families (amongst lots of other factors) all point to a future very different from 15 years ago. Nostalgia for the past, of course, is a privilege of advancing years. Stickman acknowledges that, recalling some of the great characters of the past such as Glitterman who rode a beautifully decorated bicycle around Pattaya, or the guy with the parrot which he even took into the immigration bureau to renew his visa, or the lady who covered herself with tarantulas to shock first time visitors. All gone. Perhaps too sex in Pattaya will wither on the vine. Check out Stickman’s article on https://www.stickmanbangkok.com and decide for yourself. ==================== From Pattaya Mail Parliamentary delegation surveys EEC, highlights U-Tapao Airport’s strategic role A high-profile delegation led by Krumanit Sangpoom, Chairman of the Land Transportation Committee of the House of Representatives, embarked on a comprehensive tour of key infrastructure sites within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) on March 10. The deputation, aimed to gain valuable insights, receive briefings, and engage in discussions regarding the development of this vital economic zone in Thailand’s eastern region. The visit, facilitated by members of the committee, encompassed three significant locations integral to the EEC’s development trajectory: Laem Chabang Port, U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport in Ban Chang District, Rayong Province, and the Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate Office. Throughout the visit, the delegation actively participated in discussions and exchanged viewpoints with relevant authorities, addressing the progress, challenges, and obstacles encountered in advancing the EEC’s infrastructure and economic landscape. The valuable insights and feedback garnered during the visit, encompassing assessments of existing services, identification of areas for enhancement, and strategies for bolstering capacity, will be presented to the Cabinet for deliberation and subsequent action. The delegation reiterated its unwavering commitment to fostering the development of the EEC, acknowledging its pivotal role in shaping Thailand’s future economic trajectory. Furthermore, the strategic positioning of U-Tapao Rayong-Pattaya International Airport was underscored, highlighting its potential to accommodate a significant share of visitors alongside Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang International Airports in the foreseeable future.

From Thai PBS World Phuket administration has agreed to set up a centre to deal with illegal alien businesses, after complaints from Thai business operators that many foreigners have set up businesses on the resort island, using their Thai wives or other Thai nationals as nominees. Governor Sophon Suwannarat said the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) will be asked to help, especially in checking the money trails of the Thai nominees and the identities of the real foreign business operators. The governor admitted that it is difficult to crack down on these businesses, because they are legally registered, with 51% of the shares owned by their Thai wives or other Thai nominees and, on numerous occasions, when officials visited their business premises, they would claim to be the owners of the businesses. There are more than 200 companies with foreigners holding a 49% percent stake operating in Phuket, in such businesses as massage parlours, restaurants, tour agencies, tattoo and cannabis shops and car rental services. The foreign businesspeople include Russian, German, Swedish, Chinese and South Korean nationals. Governor Sophon cut short his European trip after he was ordered by Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to return to Phuket to deal with the problem of illegal foreign businesses, following the incident over a week ago when a Swiss national allegedly assaulted a Thai doctor, whom he had accused of trespassing on his property when she sat on the staircase of his rented villa on Yamu Beach in Phuket. Pol Maj-Gen Sinlert Sukhum, commander of Phuket police, said that, after the establishment of the centre, police will coordinate with local administration officials to check foreign business partnerships and deal with those found to be using Thai nationals as nominees. According to the DSI’s investigation, there are two groups of businesses with organised crime connections. One is a Russian group in the real estate business, catering to foreign customers, and the other are Chinese and South Koreans, mostly operating integrated tourism businesses, covering hotels, restaurants, spas and travel agencies, catering to South Korean and Chinese group tours. Pol Col Parinya Klinkesorn, deputy police spokesman warned that any Thais who willingly act as nominees in foreign run businesses may face a jail term of three years and/or a fine of up to one million baht if convicted. The foreigners involved may face deportation and blacklisting, he added.

I don't think it's so much as having the courage to negotiate as it is to suspend all intelligence in the belief that Putin is an honorable man and can be depended upon to keep his word.

Only places I'm aware of In Silom entertainment district that are open 24/7 are the two Foodland markets and restaurants and some shops inside the Silom Edge complex at Rama 4 and Silom Rd., plus of course 7-11 locations and Don Don Donki. There may well be others but I'm rarely out that late. The image above appears to have two different identities: "T. Bar" and "Barboy Thailand". One says Silom Rd. and the other Suriya Wong.

From Pattaya Mail Scheduled to unfold from April 5 to 6 at the G Floor Activity Area of Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya, this year’s convention adopts the theme “Colours of the Butterfly’s Journey.” The concept symbolizes the life stories of tattoo artists, mirroring their transformation from apprentices to skilled artisans. Like butterflies, they infuse vibrant hues into the world, each stroke representing a stage in their metamorphosis. The event will draw skilled tattoo artists from both Thailand and across the globe, converging to showcase their artistry on skin. Participants will engage in knowledge exchange and explore various tattoo styles, spanning historical traditions to contemporary innovations. Moreover, aspiring tattoo artists will have the opportunity to exhibit their talents, enriching the convention’s diverse tapestry.

From Pattaya Mail The 16th World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony will be held on 16-17 March 2014 in the ancient capital of Ayutthaya, about an hour’s drive north of Bangkok. Multiple events are scheduled at Wat Langkha Khao, while the sacred Wai Kru ceremony will take place at Wat Mahathat, with the temple’s ruins serving as a dramatic backdrop. The much-anticipated event is returning after four years of hiatus. Its previous edition in 2019 attracted a record number of participants to Ayutthaya, with more than 1,500 Muay Thai boxers from 70 countries. Muay Thai boxers make it a tradition to participate in the annual World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony in Ayutthaya at least once in their lifetime. They come from around the world to express their gratitude to masters and trainers in the time-honoured ritual while celebrating the aged-old martial art of Muay Thai. For full schedule of events: https://www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/world-wai-kru-muay-thai-ceremony-in-ancient-capital-of-ayutthaya-march-16-17-454545

From The Nation A small village in Kampong Chhnang province is celebrating the return of international tourists, with as many as 100 guests a day enjoying its unique service. The residents of Kampong Tralach Leu village – in Kampong Tralach commune and district – offer an authentic rural experience, mixed with a chance to admire Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, with relaxing rides on traditional ox carts. Guests not only get the pleasure of a slow-paced journey through tranquil green rice fields but are treated to the chance to explore a fascinating 300-year-old temple, just 5km from the village. Many local people feared the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic would bring an end to the income opportunities their traditional mode of transport and their proximity to the Wat Po Rukkharam pagoda – with its beguiling paintings – have brought them since the ox cart association was established in 2007. Now, they say they are welcoming more and more visitors, giving them not only the chance to support their families but also preserve their prize oxen and customary carts. From a driver’s perspective, Khieu Sopheap is one of 48 members of the Kampong Tralach Leu Village Ox Cart Association and owns his cart and pair of oxen. The proud ox cart driver notes that in addition to his fellow villagers, their association contributes to the well-being of the residents of Tahang village, the home of the 300-year-old Wat Po Rukkharam pagoda, also known locally as Wat Kampong Tralach Leu pagoda. The 52-year-old says his cart can carry two passengers at a time, and generally makes two or three trips per day.

From Thai PBS News The Livestock Development Department has warned cattle raisers be on alert for anthrax, after three Laotians living in Champasak province in southern Laos are reported to have fallen sick after eating raw beef. Somchuan Ratanamungklanon, the department’s director-general, said that livestock officials, based in north-eastern provinces bordering with Laos, have been instructed to prepare to vaccinate cattle. He added that cattle farmers have also been instructed to report immediately to livestock officials in their localities if any of their cattle, goats or sheep become sick and die rapidly and must not move, slaughter or eat such animals. Kaenika Oonchit, deputy spokesperson for Government House, said that officials, based at animal quarantine centres along Thai-Lao border, have been ordered to strengthen order controls, to prevent smuggling of cattle, goats or sheep or their meat into Thailand. Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by the Bacillus anthracis bacterium. It occurs naturally in soil and commonly affects domestic and wild animals. Humans can become infected through direct or indirect contact with sick animals. There is no evidence that anthrax is transmitted from person to person, but it is possible that anthrax derived skin lesions may be contagious through direct contact or through contact with a contaminated object.

Wasn't required or requested, but I always do--and gladly.🙂

You need to get out more, Keith.🙂

Easy money anywhere. 🙂 Ask any circumcised guy if he wishes he had the skin back. Don't think you'll find any. Buy ask a guy with a mook if he'd do it all over again and the results would be a lot different.

I'd like to think so, too. This is a real individual issue for the guys involved. Have seen some come twice within five minutes and others who can't reload for hours.