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From CNN Important note: Before beginning any new exercise program, consult your doctor. Stop immediately if you feel pain. CNN — When it comes to lowering blood pressure, studies have typically shown that aerobic or cardio exercises are best. Recent research suggests another type of physical activity is worth including as an effective tool to prevent and treat hypertension, or high blood pressure. Exercises that engage muscles without movement — such as wall squats and planks — may be best for lowering blood pressure, according to a large study published July 2023 in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. This type of training is known as isometric, or static, exercise, according to the Mayo Clinic. Isometric muscle action happens when muscles contract but do not visibly change length, and the joints involved don’t move, facilitating stability of the body. Continues with photos and video https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/27/health/exercises-for-blood-pressure-squats-planks-wellness/index.html

Poor, Poor Kostik...

We all had high hopes for you but sadly...

NOTE -- I think most readers have used these ferries on more than one occasion. I've always enjoyed the respite while getting to see the Chao Phraya and its shores from water level. I hope they all manage to survive. From The Nation For generations, small river ferry operators have been making a living transporting people back and forth between both sides of the river. But with increasingly other options, such as SRT and MRT, can they and their employees survive? Krungthep Mahanakorn or Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is home to the mighty Chao Phraya River. Cutting the big capital in half and branching into countless canals, the river is one of the main modes of transportation for many locals. Piers line both banks waiting to greet boats both large and small. Passenger boats, tourist boats, cargo vessels and more travel this busy waterway. But while most are sailing north or south, river ferries do the opposite, carrying passengers from one side of the river to another. So what is life like on a small boat that only has 2 destinations in its whole life? Not far from Khemaphitaram temple is a small pier where Suruth “Rut” Sannonth moors his small metal ferry. Passed down to him from his father, Rut’s ferry business is one of the few independent operations left. Most have been taken over by big boat companies. The service starts at 4am but Rut’s day begins at 3.30. Most of his passengers are regulars. The first group are the monks from Kangkao temple doing pindapata, the practice of collecting alms in the morning, on a route across the river. They are followed by people who start work early. The main group of passengers – schoolchildren – arrive when the sun comes up. Rut remembers his frequent customers. And if any of them hasn’t boarded the ferry back home in the evening, he either waits until they come or calls to check on them. Rut does not mind extending his hours as he has plenty of time to nap during the day when he has no passengers. “The last ferry ride depends on those regulars. Sometimes if they need to take a ferry back late, they will call me to see if the ferry is still here.” Rut said, adding that he will often wait for them, Continues with photos https://www.nationthailand.com/lifestyle/travel/40036341

From The Nation A Royal Thai Navy warship accidentally fired an artillery shell at a frigate docked in Chonburi, wounding nine sailors on Thursday. Thick black smoke was seen pouring from the stern of HTMS Khirirat of the First Frigate Fleet as it docked at the Sattahip Naval base at noon. Firefighters backed by four fire engines took about 30 minutes to control the blaze. The fire was caused by an explosion triggered by an artillery shell accidentally discharged from HTMS Chonburi, which was docked nearby, said naval officers speaking on condition of anonymity. The blast reportedly left two officers with severe injuries. Sources said HTMS Chonburi returned from a firing drill on Wednesday with one artillery round still stuck in its guns. The round reportedly discharged as Navy engineers were trying to remove it. The Navy has yet to make an official announcement on the cause of the explosion and fire aboard HTMS Khirirat.

From Thai PBS World A 42-year-old Russian, who went missing for two days in Phuket, was found murdered in a cannabis plantation at a house in Mueang district yesterday. Artur Mkhitarian’s throat had been cut and there were signs of a struggle at the scene. Police went to the house after being alerted by Burin (surname withheld), the owner of a car rental business, about the victim’s disappearance. Burin told police that the victim had rented his car and he had been asked by the victim’s Thai girlfriend to help locate the victim via the car’s GPS. Burin went to the house indicated on the GPS and found the door locked from the inside, so he asked the police to check it. Police forced their way in and found the victim’s body with his throat cut and multiple knife wounds on his body. The initial estimation was that he had been dead for at least 12 hours. Police will contact the Russian Embassy for more information about the victim, but they say that the Russian entered Thailand in January and his visa was due to expire in late April. He and his girlfriend initially ran a tour business together, but later changed to cultivating cannabis.

Google translate does have a Burmese selection but I've found it far less productive than other language choices. Perhaps it's because so many dialects seem to be spoken there.

Have you considered saving the $6,000 and just do it yourself? Six thousand can but a lot of cake and booze. Every wedding I've ever been to required a generous helping of the latter to anesthetize me.

From Business Insider AirAsia Malaysia (flight code AK) has announced the long-awaited resumption of services from Kuala Lumpur to Pattaya (U-Tapao), Thailand with thrice-weekly flights commencing 17 June 2024. In celebration of this route resumption, flights to Pattaya (U-Tapao) are open for sale from now until 24 March 2024 from only RM99* all-in one-way and from THB990* all-in one-way from Pattaya to Kuala Lumpur for travel period between 17 June 2024 and 16 June 2025. The promotional fares are available for booking on airasia.com and the AirAsia MOVE (formerly airasia Superapp). Flight schedule from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Pattaya - U-Tapao (UTP):

From The Nation Ko Muang Phet, a magnificent albino buffalo owned by Damrongsak Morakot in Phetchaburi province, recently made headlines when it was bought for a whopping 18 million baht. Renowned for its striking beauty and colossal size, the buffalo is known for its remarkable breeding capability because 90% of its offspring will be born with albino traits. This means, nine of 10 calves produced will be albino, which makes it a significant asset in the buffalo breeding industry. Adding to its fame, Ko Muang Phet also made a mark in the entertainment world, starring as the character Ai Khlaow’s buffalo in the most recent version of the popular “Mon Rak Luk Thung” TV drama. Despite being just about five years old and standing at an impressive height of 180 centimetres, Ko Muang Phet has earned the title of Thailand’s top giant breeding buffalo, remaining undefeated in competitions for years.

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.