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23,000 baht ($685) is about the price of the Apple iPhone 15. What is the 3,300 baht quote for? In any case, I'm sure there are shops in MBK that can do it at cost-effective price.

From The Thaiger Thailand has introduced new rules governing how liquids, gels, and aerosols (LGAs) can be carried in hand luggage, tightening security measures at airports nationwide. The new regulations, which came into effect on Tuesday, April 22, were published in the Royal Gazette and supersede those introduced in 2019. “These updated rules, issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), aim to enhance airport security protocols,” said Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, CAAT’s Director. The directive mandates that all LGAs, whether carried by passengers, crew, or airport staff, must undergo thorough screening before being allowed on aircraft or into restricted airport zones. Under the new regulations, LGAs are defined as items ranging from beverages and sauces to cosmetics, toiletries, and even pressurised containers like sprays and foams. Items with both solid and liquid components, such as mascara and lip balm, also fall under the new rules. The key change is the size limitation. Individual containers of LGAs cannot exceed 100 millilitres, and they must be stored in a container of the same size, even if the container is not full. Passengers can carry multiple items, provided the total volume does not exceed 1 litre per person. In addition, these items must be placed in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag, which must be presented separately during security checks. This bag does not count toward a passenger’s carry-on luggage allowance. If advanced screening technology, such as X-ray scanners capable of detecting LGAs, is used, the screening process may be streamlined. There are exemptions, particularly for passengers requiring medication, baby food or milk, and medically necessary dietary items, all of which must be properly documented and subject to security screening. Duty-free purchases of LGAs are allowed, as long as they are sealed in tamper-evident bags and accompanied by proof of purchase. Transfer and transit passengers will also need to present their duty-free items for inspection, reported The Nation. To ensure widespread awareness of the new rules, airports are required to prominently display the updated guidelines in all public areas, including check-in zones and security checkpoints. Airport operators may also enforce stricter measures based on individual security assessments. As Thailand’s airports tighten their security, travellers are advised to check regulations at both their departure and destination airports to avoid any disruptions. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/new-liquid-and-gel-rules-enforced-at-thailand-airports

From The BBC K-pop group Just B's member Bain has revealed to fans he is "proud to be part of the LGBT community" - a rare move in an industry known for its tight control over artists' behaviour, where stars typically keep details of their personal lives private, particularly relationships. The star, 23, is now among only a handful of K-pop artists who have come out publicly. Bain made the announcement in front of fans while performing a solo at a concert in Los Angeles on Tuesday night. The moment was met with loud cheers from the crowd, according to videos circulating on social media. "To anyone out there who's part of the LGBT community, or still figuring it out - this is for you guys," Bain, whose real name is Song Byeong-hee, said in a video posted on his social media after the concert. "You are seen, you are loved, and you were born this way," he added, before launching into a performance of Born This Way by pop icon Lady Gaga, whom he referred to as "my queen". His bandmates welcomed the announcement. Just B member Siwoo said he cried while watching Bain's performance. "I know how hard it was for him, and that made me want to cry more," he said, according to Korean media outlet News1. The band's fans have shown their support as well. "We love you so much and are so proud of you for being yourself," reads a top-liked comment under his Instagram post. "You are so loved. So proud to be your fan. Be proud of who you are," another fan wrote. Formed in 2021, Just B is a six-member act that has released five EPs and multiple singles. Coming out remains extremely rare in South Korea's highly-pressurised entertainment industry. While homosexuality is not illegal in the country, it remains taboo, and same-sex marriage is not legally recognised. A 2022 Human Rights Watch report described discrimination against LGBT people in South Korea as "pervasive". https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd6jzd6g9nwo

From The Nation Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has launched a major initiative to redefine Bangkok's future, urging a shift from a city known for its "buzz" to one celebrated for its "liveability." Speaking at a key planning seminar, he highlighted the need for a strategic overhaul to address the city's persistent inefficiencies and improve the quality of life for all residents. The Governor emphasised that while Bangkok attracts tourists with its vibrant atmosphere, it lags behind regional rivals like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur in terms of liveability. He criticised the city's notorious traffic congestion and the impact of corruption, calling for a more efficient and effective administration. "We must move beyond day-to-day operations and adopt a clear, strategic vision," Mr. Chadchart told attendees. "Bangkok is a thrilling city to visit, but it is not yet a truly liveable city, and this is a major problem." Continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/bangkok/40049193

From The Nation Ignite Venture has acquired the Montien Hotel precinct in Silom, a significant deal encompassing the 500-room Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok, the 179-unit Surawong Residences, the Montien Shopping Mall, and car parking facilities. The transaction marks a new phase for the 58-year-old Montien Hotel, situated on a 10-rai (around 3.95 acres) leasehold plot secured from The Thai Red Cross Society. The accumulated lease value for the 25-year term is reported to be over 2.5 billion baht. Ignite Venture, backed by Jade Partners and the Aura Group, brings together expertise in capital investment, property, and hotel management. Thunyatorn Nattatum, managing partner at Jade Partners, stated the aim is to "celebrate its heritage while preparing it for the next generation." Panon Leelamanit, a director at Ignite Venture, highlighted the resilience of Thailand's hotel and tourism sector. Tantakitt Co., Ltd., the previous leaseholder, will retain a minority stake in Ignite Venture. Conduit House, a Thai hotel operator, has been appointed to manage the hotel and associated properties. https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40049200 ======== Snapped this photo during last trip, showing huge gathering of tuk-tuks opposite entrance to Montien Hotel. They were waiting to whisk tour group to evening attractions in Krung Thep.

Ban double-decker buses from dangerous routes From Bangkok Post Double-decker buses have been prohibited from plying potentially dangerous routes after a fatal crash on a highway in Prachin Buri, according to the Ministry of Transport. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said on Wednesday that he had instructed the Department of Land Transport (DLT) to investigate the deadly crash involving a double-decker bus and a lorry on Highway 304 in Na Di district. The crash, which occurred on a steep downhill stretch, caused a fire that killed seven people and injured more than 40 on Monday at around 1.30am. Initial findings suggest the driver was driving too fast for the road conditions and was unable to slow down in time, leading to the crash. The impact damaged an area where electrical wiring was located, causing a short circuit and fire Continues at https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3009976/double-decker-buses-banned-on-risky-routes

From Pattaya News Suspect arrested for robbing tourist at gunpoint A Russian tourist recently fell victim to a robbery in the heart of Pattaya when a suspect, armed with a firearm, threatened the tourist and demanded money. Fearing for the safety of her 3-year-old daughter, the tourist handed over 3,000 Baht to the suspect. The incident took place in Soi Phra Tamnak 6, and the suspect fled the scene shortly after. After days of investigation, the Pattaya Police apprehended the suspect on April 22, at 3:36 PM. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Ukrit Mangkhung (also known as Mac Kolai), was arrested near the entrance of Soi Beach Road 13/4. Police recovered a homemade firearm from him. The arrest was made with the collaboration of local police, the Pattaya City Police Investigation Division, and Tourism Police. Ukrit’s criminal history revealed prior convictions for drug-related offenses and robbery. He had recently been released from prison before committing this latest crime. https://www.pattayamail.com/news/suspect-arrested-for-robbing-russian-tourist-at-gunpoint-in-pattaya-498673

From Pattaya News A 34-year-old Indian tourist was slashed by a homeless man in Pattaya while waiting at a car repair shop, raising fresh concerns over public safety in the city. At 3:06 PM on April 22nd, the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Center in Pattaya received a report of a stabbing incident in Pattaya. Rescue teams quickly coordinated with Pattaya Police and rushed to the scene. There, responders found a 34-year-old Indian tourist, later identified as Mr. Shrutikkumar, in a state of shock and fear. He had suffered a knife wound to his right palm and slash marks on his body. Rescue workers provided first aid before transporting him to the hospital. The suspect had fled the scene, but a 30 cm knife was recovered nearby and kept as evidence. Mr. Adisak, 51, owner of the nearby auto repair shop, told authorities that the tourist had been straddling his motorbike while waiting for repairs. Suddenly, a man who appeared to be homeless approached with a knife and began slashing the tourist. The two had no prior interaction or argument. After the attack, the suspect casually walked away. Incidents involving homeless individuals attacking tourists have become increasingly frequent in Pattaya, causing harm to visitors and tarnishing the city’s world-class image. Despite previous crackdowns by relevant agencies, such attacks continue to occur. Just one day prior a Taiwanese tourist waiting for a food delivery order was reportedly attacked by a homeless man with a stick in Pattaya as we reported here. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/23/homeless-man-attacks-indian-tourist-with-knife-in-pattaya-broad-daylight-assault/

From CNBC Twenty years ago today when Jawed Karim uploaded a grainy 19-second clip titled “Me at the Zoo” to his new platform, YouTube, he ushered in a new era in online video. The video of Karim visiting the San Diego Zoo was the first to appear on YouTube, the video platform founded by him, Steve Chen and Chad Hurley. The trio sold the service to Google in 2006 for $1.65 billion, and in the nearly two decades since, YouTube has evolved from a simple video-sharing site into a global media juggernaut. If it was a stand-alone business, YouTube would be worth between $475 billion and $550 billion, according to analysts at MoffettNathanson. YouTube is the second-most visited website in the world, according to Similarweb, behind only Google, and more than 20 trillion videos -- including music, Shorts, podcasts and more -- have been uploaded to the site as of April, YouTube said Wednesday. Continues at https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/23/google-youtube-disney-tiktok.html

@macaroni21 your memory is good. Rooms at Avarin's first floor rooms at its big shop are spacious with shower en suite. Additional rooms on second floor accessible by easily negotiated stairway.

From Pattaya News Foodpanda, a leading food delivery platform in Thailand, will cease operations on May 23, 2025, after 13 years, as announced by its parent company, German based Delivery Hero SE. The decision follows intense competition, financial losses, and failed sale talks with buyers like Grab and Meituan. Despite early success since launching in 2012, Foodpanda struggled with a 23% market share against Grab’s 50% and reported losses of 522 million baht in 2023. Past controversies and rider pay disputes further strained its reputation. The closure will impact customers, riders, and vendors, with Delivery Hero promising support for payments and transitions. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/23/foodpanda-to-exit-thailand-by-may-23-2025-amid-market-challenges/

From The Thaiger Thailand’s once-booming Chinese tourism stream has turned into a trickle, with industry chiefs warning of a full-blown crisis as daily arrivals plunge to record lows and desperate calls mount for an urgent fix to restore trust. Chinese tourist arrivals to Thailand have nosedived to their lowest point in 2025, with just 5,833 visitors recorded on April 16, a far cry from the usual 15,000 to 20,000. One top industry figure has dubbed the slump a “crisis,” as the kingdom scrambles to win back its biggest tourism market. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, advisory chairman of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, didn’t mince his words. “This is the worst crisis for the Chinese market in recent years.” Continues at https://thethaiger.com/news/business/chinese-tourism-to-thailand-hits-2025-low-with-only-5833-arrivals

Thailand already has difficulty attracting enough bodies to fill existing jobs in construction and hospitality. This mirrors what Trump is doing in the US that has difficulty attracting citizens to fill the jobs in construction and hospitality: blame the immigrants.

From Pattaya News By Adam Judd Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered a comprehensive review of Thailand’s visa-free entry scheme, citing concerns over the rising number of foreign visitors overstaying their permitted duration and engaging in illegal employment, according to government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub on Tuesday. The visa-free program, which allows citizens of numerous countries to enter Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa, has been a cornerstone of the nation’s tourism-driven economy. In 2024, Thailand welcomed over 35 million foreign visitors, contributing majorly to its GDP. However, authorities have reported a growing trend of visitors exploiting the scheme, with some staying beyond the allowed period and taking up unauthorized work in sectors such as hospitality, construction, and entertainment. “The Prime Minister has stated the need to balance tourism promotion with national security and legal compliance,” Jirayu said in a press briefing. “The revision will aim to tighten oversight while ensuring Thailand remains a welcoming destination for genuine tourists.” The move comes amid review of immigration policies following high-profile cases of foreign nationals involved in illegal activities. The government has not yet specified the exact changes to the visa-free scheme but indicated that measures could include stricter entry requirements, enhanced tracking of visitors, and harsher penalties for violators. Thailand’s visa-free entry currently applies to citizens of 93 countries, including major tourism markets like China, India, and several European nations. The scheme was expanded in recent years to boost post-pandemic tourism recovery, but critics argue it has strained immigration enforcement resources. The Tourism Authority of Thailand reported that Chinese visitors, who benefit from the visa exemption, accounted for the largest share of arrivals in 2024, with over 6 million travelers. Details of the revised visa-free scheme are expected to be finalized in the coming weeks and months. Until then, current entry rules remain in effect, and travelers are advised to comply with existing visa regulations to avoid penalties. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/22/thai-prime-minister-orders-comprehensive-review-of-visa-free-entry-program-changes-coming/

From Pattaya News The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially restored Thailand’s aviation safety rating to Category 1, stating that the country now complies with international civil aviation safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The announcement, made today by Thailand’s Ministry of Transport, reversed a downgrade to Category 2 in 2015 that stemmed from 36 safety oversight deficiencies.The upgrade clears the way for Thai airlines, including Thai Airways, to resume direct flights to the United States for the first time in nearly a decade. It also enables expanded services to other countries, such as South Korea, that align their aviation standards with FAA assessments. This development is expected to boost Thailand’s tourism and business sectors by simplifying travel and building stronger economic ties with the U.S. and beyond. Thailand’s 2015 downgrade followed an FAA audit that identified critical gaps in the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand’s (CAAT) oversight, including what they said was insufficient legal authority, inadequate numbers of qualified flight inspectors, and conflicts of interest in its dual role as regulator and airport operator. These issues, compounded by an ICAO audit highlighting similar concerns, barred Thai carriers from launching new U.S. routes and disrupted codeshare agreements with American airlines. Since then, the CAAT has undertaken extensive reforms, addressing all 36 deficiencies through legislative changes, increased staffing, and enhanced inspection protocols. A five-day FAA audit in November 2024 found only minor issues, and a final evaluation in March 2025 confirmed Thailand’s compliance, paving the way for today’s upgrade. Transport Permanent Secretary Chayatan Phromsorn confirmed the CAAT’s decade-long effort to meet global standards, noting that the Category 1 status reflects Thailand’s commitment to aviation safety. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/22/thailands-aviation-safety-rating-upgraded-to-category-1-by-faa-opening-doors-for-u-s-flights/

It's no secret that the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) has been boosting the potential of Muay Thai's soft power. But the photos The Nation chose to illustrate a recent article gives credence to "a photo is worth a thousand words." https://www.nationthailand.com/pr-news/pr-news/40049062

From Pattaya Mail Despite being one of the most visited countries in the world, Thailand continues to face a persistent and deadly problem: the lack of safety on its long-distance and tourist buses. The recent tragedy on the steep descent of Pu Thon Shrine Hill in Prachinburi, where a bus’s brakes failed and caused a fiery crash that killed seven and injured 53, is just the latest in a long series of horrific incidents. And the saddest part? It’s far from surprising. Thailand’s road fatality rate remains among the highest in the world. While much of the focus has been on motorcycles, buses—particularly those operating on interprovincial or overnight routes—are frequently involved in deadly crashes. Often, the cause is a combination of mechanical failure, driver fatigue, and dangerously poor infrastructure. Many of the buses still in circulation are old, poorly maintained, and riddled with safety issues. Brakes fail, tires wear thin, and emergency exits are sometimes blocked or non-functional. Regulations exist but are unevenly enforced, and in some cases, blatantly ignored due to corruption or cost-cutting by operators. Drivers often work long shifts for little pay, and the pressure to stay on schedule means speed is prioritized over safety. Some lack proper training for handling difficult routes—especially mountainous roads like the one where this recent accident occurred. Pu Thon Hill is notorious for its steep decline and winding curves, yet little has been done to make it safer, despite multiple fatal accidents there over the years. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/news/safety-over-savings-more-travelers-ditch-buses-for-trains-and-taxis-on-bangkok-pattaya-route-498414

From Pattaya News With over 10,000 daily visitors and a growing local population, Koh Larn is set to get a new police substation at Tawaen Beach to improve safety and ease the burden on existing officers. Mr. Manoch Nongyai, Deputy Mayor of Pattaya, together with Mr. Kiatthisak Sriwongchai, Permanent Secretary of Pattaya City and other officials, met to discuss the establishment of a new police substation on Koh Larn. The meeting took place at the Pattaya City branch office on Koh Larn, near Tawaen Beach. After the meeting, Mr. Manoch stated that Koh Larn currently welcomes around 10,000 tourists daily, both Thai and foreign, and also has a large residential population. The current police presence from Pattaya Police Station is insufficient to cover the entire area. As a result, there have been ongoing efforts to establish a new substation near the Pattaya City branch office at Tawaen Beach and to increase the number of officers on the island. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/22/pattaya-to-set-up-new-police-substation-on-koh-larn-to-boost-tourist-safety/

From The Thaiger A former deputy attorney general has been sentenced to three years in prison, while a former senior public prosecutor received two years, following their involvement in the controversial case surrounding the 2012 fatal hit-and-run involving Red Bull heir Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya. The incident, which saw Vorayuth drive a luxury Porsche sports car into police officer Wichian Klanprasert, leading to his death, has been at the centre of a years-long legal battle. Today, a group of high-profile defendants, including former national police chief Police General Somyot Pumpanmuang and Net Naksuk, arrived at the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct in Bangkok. The case revolves around allegations of evidence tampering, where the defendants are accused of altering statements and car speed details to aid Vorayuth, allowing him to escape more serious charges or face a lesser sentence. The eight defendants implicated in the case, including top-ranking police officers and legal figures, were accused of colluding to change evidence to protect Vorayuth. Among the accused were Police Major General Thawatchai Mekprasertsuk, Police Colonel Wiradol Thapthimdee, and Associate Professor Dr Saiprasit Kerdniyom. Despite the seriousness of the charges, the court dismissed several of the charges against the accused, handing down only partial sentences. https://thethaiger.com/news/bangkok/ex-attorney-general-gets-3-years-in-red-bull-heir-hit-and-run-case

This topic covers a very wide range of relationships' "My guy" can infer very different levels of intimacy. To some it's their favorite guy or someone they look forward to seeing if he's still available when they return. To others, it means a boy friend or close friend. In any case, every one assigns a different definition that is unique to their circumstance. To me, it's paramount never to embarrass the guy; never cause him to lose face. If we can do that, we stand a good chance of keeping those important to us close.

From Pattaya news A major accident occurred in the early hours of April 21st, 2025, around 2:00 AM, when a passenger bus traveling from Nong Khai to Rayong collided with the rear of a trailer truck, causing the bus’s wheels to catch fire. The incident took place on the road descending from Pu Khao Salathon Court, heading toward Kabin Buri in Na Di District, Prachinburi Province. The bus, identified as vehicle number 590-28 and bound for Pattaya-Rayong, carried 60 passengers. The crash resulted in 7 fatalities and dozens of injuries, with emergency services rushing the injured to nearby hospitals. Continues at https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/21/bus-coming-to-pattaya-crashes-in-prachinburi-and-claims-7-lives-injures-53/

From The Thaiger Phuket Kwaeng Court issued an arrest warrant for a Swiss man who allegedly kicked a female Thai doctor in the back outside his luxury villa in Phuket after he failed to appear in court as scheduled. The 27 year old Thai doctor, Tarndao Chandam, filed a lawsuit against 46 year old Swiss national Urs Fehr in February last year. She accused him of kicking her in the back and verbally abusing her for sitting on the staircase outside his villa on Yamu Beach with a friend. Fehr denied the allegation, claiming that he stumbled on the stairs, which caused him to accidentally kick the doctor. He and his Thai wife also stated that they mistook the doctor and her friend for intruders, as their villa had previously been broken into. It was later revealed that the staircase was illegally constructed, and the area in question was part of a public beach, the property over which Fehr and his wife had no ownership rights. Fehr and his wife subsequently held a press conference to apologise to the doctor and participated in legal proceedings. In September last year, the court of first instance acquitted him of all charges. However, the victim, her family, and many members of the public viewed the court’s ruling as unjust. Tarndao continued to pursue the matter, filing an appeal for the case to be reconsidered. Following this, Phuket Kwaeng Court scheduled a hearing for both parties today, April 21. Tarndao’s lawyer, Nipit Intarasombat, reported that Fehr failed to appear in court as expected. Consequently, the court issued an arrest warrant for him and postponed the hearing to May 23 at 9am. https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/arrest-warrant-issued-against-swiss-man-who-kicks-thai-doctor

From Pattaya news From May 1st to 5th, Central Pattaya Beach will dazzle with “Pattaya Lighting 2025 – FantaSea: The Illumination on the Beach,” the city’s debut lighting festival transforming the shoreline into a fantasy world of light and imagination. The Illumination on the Beach” is Pattaya’s first-ever grand lighting festival, set to transform the beachfront into a fantasy world of lights, colors, and imagination. The event will take place at Central Pattaya Beach.

I, too, am hopeful that the Church will not return to ultra conservative rule. Francis was always concerned with the fate of migrant workers and in last diplomatic meeting reiterated their plight along with peace in Gaza. During his term, he planned ahead for this day by expanding the College of Cardinals as detailed in this reference from Wikipedia. Pope Francis (r. 2013–2025) created cardinals at ten consistories held at roughly annual intervals beginning in 2014 and for the last time on 7 December 2024. The cardinals created by Francis include 163 cardinals from 76 countries, 25 of which had never been represented in the College of Cardinals.[a] His appointments include the first Scandinavian since the Reformation, the first from Goa since an episcopal see was established there in 1533, the first from Latin America's indigenous peoples, the first from India's Dalit community, and the first active head of a religious congregation. Following the 2024 consistory, 110 of the cardinal electors had been appointed by Francis, 24 by Pope Benedict XVI, and 6 by Pope John Paul II. Each of Francis' consistories has increased the number of cardinal electors from at or less than the set limit of 120 to a number higher than 120, as high as 140 in 2024, surpassing the record 135 set by Pope John Paul II in 2001 and 2003. Since 2 June 2023, two-thirds of the cardinal electors have been cardinals created by Francis.[3] The December 2024 consistory increased that to about 79%. Francis shifted membership in the College of Cardinals away from Europe, making it all but certain that the conclave to choose his successor will be the first where Europeans do not account for a majority of electors. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cardinals_created_by_Francis

It's illegal in province of Bangkok, not entire country, I believe.