reader

G-Zone Massage (formerly Natural Massage) on Soi 6 has closed. A non-member tells me that some individuals with experience in the business are weighing the possibility of renting the premises and opening a new shop.

I acknowledged that Moses’ interpretation was correct. As this comes from an individual who has a history of posting antisemitic remarks, I believe it’s he who owns the reputation as a clown.

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon BANGKOK, Thailand – The British embassy held a party at the British Club in Bangkok to commemorate the so-called Bowring treaty of 1855 which established consular jurisdiction for British nationals in Thailand. Signed between Sir John Bowring, the colonial governor of Hong Kong and Siamese plenipotentiaries, the treaty also gave British subjects the right to live permanently in Bangkok and to enjoy multilateral trade liberalization with agreed tariffs on imports and exports. The party was attended by 200 invitees and was hosted by deputy head of mission Dave Thomas and head of consular services Joanne Finnamore-Crorkin. Mr Thomas said that official Anglo-Siamese relations were now 170 years old, even though British traders and the East India Company had been visiting Siam since the early 17th century. He added that the treaty survived until the first world war and was a model for other Siamese deals with European nations as well as the United States. Mrs Finnamore-Crorkin said that 2024 was a record year for consular assistance work in Thailand. There were over 2,000 cases of distress, including arrests, detentions and deaths, as well as a similar number of notarial (documentary) services and over 600 emergency travel documents issued. She also revealed that just over one million British visitors entered Thailand during 2024, including 99,687 “residents” mainly in Bangkok and tourist-orientated provinces. https://www.pattayamail.com/news/british-embassy-celebrates-thai-diplomacy-and-updates-statistics-493079

You may well be correct about interpretation. However, the greatest danger is the transport of lithium batteries in checked luggage. From CNN TSA battery rules can be confusing, and summer travel often means long days for both you and your electronics — especially if you’re delayed. If you’re in the market for travel gear, the best way to keep your devices charged is by using a power bank. But it can be tough to figure out what kind of mobile chargers fit within the Transportation Security Administration or Federal Aviation Administration’s rules so they aren’t taken away at the security checkpoint. All battery packs face very strict guidelines for air travel. Lithium-ion (rechargeable) batteries and portable batteries that contain lithium-ion can only be packed in carry-on baggage. They’re limited to a rating of 100 watt hours (Wh) per battery. With airline approval, you can bring two larger spare batteries (up to 160 Wh). https://edition.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/travel/tsa-battery-rules

From The Nation The first 7-Eleven convenience store in Luang Prabang, Laos, has received a positive response from both residents and tourists, according to its operator, CP ALL. Chairoj Tiwatmuncharoen, Senior Vice President of CP ALL, said the 7-Eleven LPB PHOSY branch was officially opened on Thursday and is operated by its subsidiary, CP ALL Laos. Viengthong Hatsachanh, Mayor of Luang Prabang, presided over the opening ceremony of the store, highlighting the city's worldwide acclaim as a premier tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. “Luang Prabang presents strong potential for business expansion, thanks to its rich natural, cultural, and historical attractions,” Chairoj said. He also highlighted the city's well-developed transportation infrastructure, including an international airport and a high-speed railway, which enhances its accessibility for both domestic and international visitors. https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40047122

From Reuters As U.S. President Donald Trump's new trade tariffs on China, Mexico and Canada kick off, sparking another trade war, countries in Asia's complex and integrated global supply chain are in the crosshairs. The following graphics illustrate Asia's exposure to U.S. tariffs on China and the escalating trade war, which is set to impact exports and growth in the region. Vietnam, Taiwan, and Thailand are the most exposed to increased U.S. tariffs due to their high export-to-GDP ratios with the United States. With Trump proposing tariffs targeting sectors such as semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, steel, and aluminium, Nomura expects over a quarter of exports from South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines and Taiwan could be affected. Continues at https://www.reuters.com/markets/asia/asian-countries-cross-hairs-trump-tariffs-2025-03-06/

NOTE — The article does not specify whether the power banks are banned in checked baggage only which is common with many international carriers. The illustration on Thai FB page appears to Indicate that they’re banned in cabin, also. From Pattaya News Thai Airways announced a ban on charging power banks during flights to enhance passenger safety. The new regulation will take effect starting March 15th, 2025. In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, Thai Airways stated, “Thai Airways Implements Power Bank Regulations for Passenger Safety. Following incidents of in-flight fires on international airlines, suspected to be linked to power bank usage, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited has introduced new safety measures. Effective March 15, 2025, the use of power banks will be prohibited while onboard the aircraft. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/07/thai-airways-bans-power-bank-charging-on-all-flights-from-march-15th/

From Bangkok Post PATTAYA - A Japanese man has been found hanged from a tree on Koh Larn, an island popular with day-trippers just off the coast of this beach town in Chon Buri province. The discovery of the body was reported to police at 4.30pm on Thursday, said Pol Col Anan Mahakitassawakul, an investigation officer at the Pattaya City station. When police, forensic officials and rescue workers arrived in the forested area near the viewpoint behind Khao Phra Yai, overlooking two beaches on the island, they found the body of a foreign man hanging from the tree with a rope tied around his neck. Less than 10 metres from the body, they found a black hooded long-sleeve shirt, a camouflage hiking hat, a shoulder bag, a cigarette pack, a lighter, a photo of an elderly woman, two packs of Viagra and a pair of Bluetooth earphones. They also found a passport of a Japanese man on a stone bench inside a nearby pavilion. It showed the man’s age as 48. Forensic technicians collected the passport and other personal belongings as evidence. Continues with photos https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2975266/japanese-man-found-hanged-near-pattaya-viewpoint

But just what did you manage to do behind those stalls?

Anyone and anything on Grindr comes with AYOR warranty.

Do we pay to have sex in Thailand?

+1 Xone and other exchanges are fastidious about condition. It will be rejected if it has any extraneous marks or other defects. You won’t be subject to double exchange rate because it’s one currency to THB. But one dollar notes get slightly lower exchange rate than USD 100 notes. Whether they’ll accept the notes entirely at their discretion. The quantity you wish to exchange may also affect their decision because there’s not a big demand for small denomination foreign currency. it may turn out to be more of a headache than worth it.

Found photos of the Blue Temple extraordinary, especially compared to the more frequent white.

From VN Express The Ministry of Education and Training held a workshop on Wednesday to collect feedback on the draft national scheme designed to gradually introduce English as a second language in schools nationwide. The scheme, spanning from 2025 to 2035 with a vision extending to 2045, is being piloted in selected universities and schools. In his speech, Deputy Minister of Education and Training Pham Ngoc Thuong underscored the importance of learning from international experiences to tailor solutions that fit Vietnam's educational context. Key priorities include effective resource allocation, teacher training, international partnerships, infrastructure investment, and active social engagement to ensure scheme's success with high quality and efficiency. The scheme outlines specific targets for integrating English as a second language across all education levels. By 2035, all eligible preschools will introduce English, targeting 100% coverage of children aged 3-5, extending to all preschoolers, including nursery and kindergarten, by 2045. By 2035, every student from grades 1 to 12 will follow an English-as-a-second-language curriculum at levels 1, 2, and 3, with all schools offering advanced levels 4, 5, and 6 by 2045. All universities will also adopt levels 4, 5, and 6 while all vocational training establishments will integrate career-focused English courses into their curricula. By 2030, Vietnam aims to complete the building of English curricula within the continuing education system to meet growing public demand. https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/education/vietnam-aims-to-make-english-second-language-for-all-students-by-2035-4857613.html

From MSN Colourful rectangular wooden boats carrying tourists are chugging along at a leisurely pace across the Mekong River. The atmosphere is idyllic, disturbed only by the monotonous throbbing of the boats' engines. Hills rise gently on both sides of the mighty river, water buffaloes are grazing on the banks. A fisherman in a longboat casts his net, while the heat of the day slowly descends on Laos from the pale blue sky. The cosy vessels are dubbed "slow boats" and the contrast to the speedboats that whiz along the canals in neighbouring Thailand could hardly be starker. The name embodies the Laotian attitude to life: In Southeast Asia's only landlocked country, taking it easy is a top priority. "The wise do not hurry and those in hurry are rarely wise," our tour guide, Kham Dee says, citing an old Laotian proverb as he slowly steers the boat in the direction of Pak Ou Caves, a famous cave temple containing nearly 6,000 Buddha statues. Looking to party? You're in the wrong place While most tourists visiting Laos head to the ancient royal city of Luang Prabang, the capital Vientiane with its temples, markets and French colonial buildings also has much to offer, including the country's landmark - the Pha That Luang, a golden, terraced stupa dating back to the 16th century. Shortly after sunrise monks in saffron-coloured robes carry processional umbrellas across the main square in Wat Si Saket, a temple that radiates serene beauty. A gong chimes, followed by deep Buddhist chants. The few foreign visitors on this particular morning stand spellbound. With fewer than 1 million inhabitants, Vientiane offers a relaxed contrast to glitzy metropolises like Bangkok and Singapore. If you're looking to party, you're in the wrong place. Continues with photos https://www.msn.com/en-gb/travel/outdoor-activities/slowing-down-while-touring-peaceful-laos/ar-AA1AjD4r

From The Thaiger A Pattaya rescue team was called into action to remove a stainless steel ringfrom a Thai man’s penis. The man had hoped the ring would boost his sexual performance but he ended up in hospital instead. The 45 year old Thai man, whose identity remains undisclosed, visited a private hospital in Pattaya for treatment. His genital area was swollen and developed severe inflammation from the steel ring he was wearing. The man confessed to the medical team that he placed a steel ring, with a diameter of 3 centimetres, around the base of his penis to combat long-lasting erectile dysfunction. He wore it for only two days before the injuries developed. The ring became tighter around his penis, causing the organ to swell. To provide treatment, the ring had to be removed first. Consequently, the hospital sought the cooperation of the Sawang Borriboon Dhammastan Foundation to cut the ring off. The rescuers revealed to Daily News that they used a metal cutting tool to remove the ring. The man reportedly struggled due to the pain, and the rescuers and nurses had to hold his body tightly to prevent injury from the cutting tool. It took them over 45 minutes to remove the ring. https://thethaiger.com/news/pattaya/failed-enhancement-pattaya-rescuers-remove-steel-ring-from-mans-penis

From Pattaya News The Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) took legal action against a condominium in Bangkok’s Pratunam area for illegally renting units to tourists on a daily basis. Additionally, three unlicensed hotels in Huai Khwang-Sutthisan were shut down. The crackdown followed complaints from condo residents who reported disturbances caused by short-term renters, including smoking on balconies and improper use of shared spaces. Officials found that some units were rented out via online platforms, violating the 2004 Hotel Act. Property owners failing to register guests or report foreign visitors to immigration authorities could face up to one year in jail or fines of up to 20,000 baht, with additional daily penalties up to 10,000 baht. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul ordered strict enforcement nationwide, targeting condo owners and foreign investors using nominees to bypass regulations. Authorities have now intensified legal measures, urging condominium juristic persons to prevent illegal rentals and launching public awareness campaigns on hotel laws. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/07/crackdown-on-illegal-daily-rentals-bangkok-condos-and-hotels-raided/

Having been there more than a few times, I can say with some certainity that they know exactly who they’re after: men who would like to get up close and personal with young Myanmar dancers.

I believe this is particularly true with otherwise straight guys. They’re usually more likely to feel free to act on impulse once door is closed with customer. There are, of course, exceptions but I like to take one at a time because of satisfactory success rate. I view it this way. If they choose to share their experience with coworkers, i benefit because they’re now aware what I’m looking for. If they don’t then it’s just between us and that’s fine, too.

From Khaosod English A violent altercation in Phuket’s nightlife district has sparked widespread online criticism after video footage emerged showing foreign tourists fleeing from transgender individuals before a physical confrontation. Police Lieutenant Pongpipat Khamchoomphoo, Deputy Inspector of Patong Police Station, reported that the incident occurred in the early hours of March 5 on Bangla Road. The conflict began when 4-5 transgender women confronted two Thai women, Wilaiporn, 21, and Sunisa, 23, accusing them of stealing Israeli clients. When Israeli tourists Nathan and Ofir attempted to intervene, they became entangled in the dispute with the transgender group. Video shows the chaotic fight that ensued, with the tourists running away on the road pursued by the transgender women. Both parties sustained injuries before the transgender group fled the scene. Emergency responders provided first aid to the tourists before transferring them to Patong Hospital. Authorities later identified and summoned three transgender individuals – Suwicha, 20, Apisit, 28, and Siwaphum, 29 – to acknowledge charges of public disturbance, which carries a maximum fine of 5,000 baht. The tourists were also charged with the same offense.offense. Continues with video https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2025/03/06/trans-group-clashes-with-thai-women-in-phuket-israeli-tourists-injured/

When they’re not on stage for rotation, it’s not unusual to find some Fresh Boy performers hanging outside second-floor entrance to bar, where they retreat to warm up or have a smoke. It’s not necessary to ascend the main staircase to access the area. Instead, look for stairway on right side of PP2 (coming from direction of Foodland) as you approach French Kiss restaurant. That will take you by Hot Male’s outside bar and entrance to FB will soon follow.

From The Thaiger AirAsia is making domestic travel more affordable than ever, joining forces with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to encourage travellers to explore hidden gems across the country. The budget airline is rolling out one-way fares starting at just 880 baht, giving tourists the chance to visit 16 destinations spanning all four regions of Thailand. The limited-time promotion is available for bookings until March 9, with travel dates set between March 10 and September 30. AirAsia aims to connect lesser-known cities with tourists eager to explore Thailand beyond its mainstream hotspots. The northern region boasts flights to Chiang Rai, Phitsanulok, Nan, and Lampang, while Isaan offers seven destinations, including Loei, Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Buriram, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, and Roi Et. In the south, travellers can hop on budget flights to Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, Chumphon, Ranong, and Narathiwat. Notably, Udon Thani is accessible from Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports, providing greater flexibility for travellers. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/airasia-and-tat-launch-budget-flights-to-16-thai-cities

From The Thaiger A Thai dancer had a terrifying brush with death after suffering a severe shockmid-performance at a temple in Kamphaeng Phet. The culprit? A mystery drink laced with a sexual stimulant, handed to him by a member of the audience. The official Facebook page of the Mor Lam performance band, หมอลำใจเกินร้อย(Mor Lam Jai Kern Roi, meaning over 100% spirit Mor Lam band), provided an update on the condition of the male dancer, Warayuth Somsanook, yesterday, March 5. According to the page, Warayuth suffered a shock after consuming the drink provided by a member of the audience. The suspect handed a glass of alcohol to the victim in front of the stage and urged to drink it in exchange for a reward. The drink was not pure alcohol but it had been mixed with sexual stimulants. The amount of the substance was beyond what the human body could tolerate, causing Warayuth to lose consciousness on stage. Fortunately, he received medical treatment in time. The performance on the day of the incident took place at Thung Sanin Temple in Kamphaeng Phet. The temple’s monks condemned the suspect on social media, with some locals also believing that the suspect intended to damage the reputation of both the temple and the Mor Lam band. The monks stated that the suspect was an LGBTQIA+ individual wearing a white T-shirt. ThaiRath reported that the temple is now gathering evidence to take legal action against the person. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-dancer-shocked-after-drink-spiked-with-sexual-stimulant

Will have to be one hell of a pyramid.