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From Thai PBS World The government’s universal healthcare scheme will make a groundbreaking leap next year, when Thais will be allowed to receive free medical treatment anywhere in their home province, including private hospitals, simply by presenting their national ID card. “We are revolutionizing the country’s public healthcare. The paradigm will change for the first time in 20 years,” said Dr Surapong Suebwonglee, secretary to the National Healthcare Service Plan Development Committee. In the initial phase, individuals covered by the healthcare scheme in four pilot provinces, namely Roi Et, Phetchaburi, Phrae and Narathiwat, will be able to enjoy this privilege from January 8. No prior registration is required; members can visit any medical facility and gain treatment by showing their national ID. “I am fully confident this move will benefit the public,” Roi Et’s public health chief Dr Suradet Chawadet said. “Let’s see how far we can go with the implementation.” Hundreds of hospitals and clinics in Roi Et, including 400 private medical facilities, have now integrated their databases for the initial phase of the plan. If the first phase is successful, the second phase will commence in March, expanding to eight more provinces before being gradually rolled out nationwide within a year. The universal healthcare scheme, launched in 2001 as the brainchild of the Thai Rak Thai Party (TRT) government, has evolved significantly. Initially costing users 30 baht per visit, it marked a breakthrough in Thailand’s healthcare sector by providing free or low-cost medical services. The scheme, now covering some 48 million people, offers a guarantee of accessible healthcare provided by the state. Gone are the days when ailing people had to worry about being financially ruined by medical costs or being denied treatment if they or their family had no proof they could cover their bills. Continues at https://www.thaipbsworld.com/treatment-anywhere-a-new-era-dawns-for-thailands-universal-healthcare-scheme/

One of the areas we can agree upon. I did get to meet the owner on one occasion (he held court nightly at a large table in the back of Babylon's main restaurant). At that time it was certainly operating in the red with 300-400 paying 280 baht on weekends to pass through the turnstile. Drinks and food were.f course, extra. No cash was involved; you wore a numbered band on your wrist or ankle and settled accounts before you passed through another turnstile on the way out. Unless there wwas a special event, week day admission was 260 as I recall. Babylon was enjoying its heyday about the time I first discovered it in the early 2000's. Beside the main structure (which included the "barracks") there were some studio apartments in a low rise building available to rent by the night. Adjacent to that there were quite a few townhouse type apartments arranged around a central, oblong park, obviously for long-term rental. Babylon's decline was at first gradual but seemed to accelerate after 2008 or so. It went from being a "must" stop to an occasional one as other saunas opened and Babylon--once billed as one of the world's best--became a large building with high maintenance costs. Its demise was heightened as the once crowds dwindled and upkeep suffered. It was the talk of gay Bangkok for quite some time (even when it was located in its nearby original building in the 90's). I find that to be a logical way of viewing the future.As in any business ,if the demand is constant there will continue to be accommodation Although I have no first-hand knowledge of Pattaya, I agree with both Macaroni21 and Old Daddy: 800 is pushing the envelope for these venues and I'd expect most people to vote with their feet. This seems beyond the point where the scales tip to the on-line supply. Actually, more than you might think because that's when you have the best opportunity to sit down with the boy(s) of your choice at a time when they're presence isn't required on stage. Some customers come early--with no intention of seeing the show--just to have their pick before they're offed. And keep in mind that the bars have two, and sometimes three, shows a night now. And although I agree that that are far less go-go's than 20 or 30 years ago, what's pertinent is what they have now and are they doing sufficient business to satisfy the owners. During the covid and post-covid period, one new bar opened and later closed (New Twlight, aka Queens Club). A new bar has opened a few months ago (SOL) in Patpong 2. Time will tell if it survives. But I wouldn't worry about elites or other non-business factors. This is, after all, Thailand.

If this is the case, all the more reason for Thailand to hold on to its go-go bars. I said earlier that the country has a lock on the reputation and that's a good thing, akin to having the last credible supply of plutonium. Why would you want to voluntarily destroy it? The Tourism Authority has made no secret that it wants to attract gay tourists for the sake of the pink currency they represent. Keep those bars that have those svelte dancers and the muscle boys. They're good for the economy. I wouldn't put too much faith in Kerr who has probably never stepped inside a go-go bar. But I bet more than a few of these so-called elite purists dress down and sneak into the bars because there's so scientific evidence that the wealthy experience homosexuality in a smaller percentage than the population at large. The gay go-go bar may be the last, best example of true democracy on the planet.

From Apple Insider Apple is reportedly moving key engineering resources to Vietnam, which will now be involved in iPad development as well as production. Apple moved at least a significant proportion of iPad production from China to Vietnam in June 2022, and had been planning to do so for over a year beforehand. According to Nikkei Asia, Apple is now working to move what's called New Product Introduction (NPI) development to Vietnam. It's a significant move away from China, but it's being done in conjunction with Chinese iPad manufacturer BYD. Nonetheless, Nikkei Asia says it's the first time that Apple has allocated NPI resources for such a key product. NPI development means Apple will be working closely with BYD to test designs and find manufacturing issues. Reportedly, one iPad that will be developed there is expected to enter its engineering verification tests in mid-February 2024. It's then believed that the model will be released in the second half of the year. Apple's moves to take production away from China are based in part on the need to prevent over-reliance on a single source. China's strict zero-tolerance policies regarding COVID, and its energy supply problems, have delayed Apple's manufacturing.

From Reuters China on Friday cut visa fees by 25% for travellers from countries including Thailand, Japan, Mexico, Vietnam, and the Philippines from December 11 2023 to December 31 2024, according to statements from the Chinese foreign ministry and embassies. The policy so far covers hundreds of millions of travellers from over a dozen countries and will make it cheaper for them to get a visa to travel to China This is the latest in a slew of measures China has recently taken to increase inbound travel from foreign tourists and business people amid a sputtering recovery in the world's second-largest economy. Last month, China announced to temporarily exempt citizens of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia from needing visas to visit the world’s second-largest economy to boost post-pandemic tourism.

From Pattaya News The Marine Department is requesting a budget of 285 million baht to facilitate its ambitious plan to renew the Na Baan Pier on Koh Larn to increase safety and boost Pattaya’s tourism. The major upgrade project for Koh Larn’s pier will be funded over three years and is expected to be fully completed by 2026, according to Mr. Kritphet Chaichuay, Inspector General of the Ministry of Transport and Acting Director-General of the Marine Department. With a total budget of 285 million baht pulled from three fiscal years: 57 million baht in 2024, 114 million baht in 2025, and 114 million baht in 2026, the scheme is expected to be able to support the growing number of Bali Hai Pier visitors, hopefully from 6,000-7,000 visitors currently on weekdays and 8,000-10,000 on weekends to 30,000 per day in the future. The existing pier, established in 1968, will undergo several upgrades including: Demolition of the existing pier and construction of a temporary pier Building of a permanent pier with dimensions of 198 x 14 meters Building of a waiting shelter Construction of six concrete pontoons Construction of two sets of level-adjustable piers

On my sole visit to Mexico City, I got totally lost one Sunday afternoon while looking for a popular gay destination. Ended up walking along deserted streets for 45 minutes until I located a Metro station. Figured if I survived that I could relax a bit. That was in 2004. Since then most of of my travels have been limited to SE Asian. There's no pace I feel safer than the streets--while sidewalks--of Bangkok.

From Agence France Presse Beijing, China – China on Thursday slammed what it called the “smearing” of its Belt and Road infrastructure project after Italy said it would withdraw four years after it became the only G7 nation to sign up. An Italian government source confirmed to AFP on Wednesday that Rome had pulled out of the initiative. Proponents of the BRI praise it for bringing resources and economic growth to the Global South. But critics have long pointed to opaque pricing for projects built by Chinese companies, with countries including Malaysia and Myanmar renegotiating deals to bring down costs.

Although we're discussing Thailand, power among "elites" regularly shifts back and forth, nowhere perhaps more so than in South America and--more recently--in Europe. We've also seen it occur in China and Japan over time. As the elites die off, many of their decedents will very likely view matters through a glass less darkly. They will exercise their influence differently. You're convictions seemed centered on the eradication of gay bars. You can still find them in other traditional Asian societies--north and south. This may come as a disappointment to Kerr but encouragement to others who enjoy the freedom of expression they represent and--of course--just one more reason gays from all other nations choose to spend their disposal income in Thailand. Sleaze, my friend, is much underrated.

The best thing that elites have going for them is that they’ll succumb before the gay scene does.

From Pattaya News In a major operation early this morning, December 7th, officials from the Banglamung District Office and Pattaya Police Station raided the “4 Step Tomboy” nightclub on Pattaya Third Road. Acting on orders from Mr. Phisit Sawatdinukul, the Banglamung district chief, Ms. Kamolchanok Konsombat, the district chief secretary, led the operation at around 3:30 AM. The raid was prompted by numerous public complaints alleging that the establishment operated beyond legal hours and permitted the use of illegal narcotics on the premises. Upon arriving at the club, authorities found over 100 patrons dancing to loud music. The officials intervened, stopped the music, illuminated the place, and separated male and female patrons. According to Banglamung district officials, the venue’s floor was strewn with plastic bags containing substances resembling narcotics. Officials also found suspicious plastic bags in garbage bins and suspected that they may have been discarded by the partygoers inside the venue when police raided the club. As a result, the officials ran urine tests on every person in the venue and uncovered that 17 individuals tested positive for illegal drugs – 9 males and 8 females. Further investigation revealed that the establishment also lacked the proper licensing documentation to operate. Those responsible for the nightclub and individuals who tested positive for drugs were apprehended and taken into custody. They will face further investigation and legal proceedings, although they were not immediately identified to the press.

From Pattaya Mail Myths about Thai expats and those income tax changes starting very soon By Barry Kenyon Most expats in Thailand live on income or capital, or both, built up over many years with tax already paid in the country of passport. They are understandably worried by the imminent change in Thai Revenue practice – it is not a new law passed by parliament – which will potentially tax new and assessable foreign-sourced income beginning in January 2024. Pattaya Mail has received more concerned reader feedback about this issue than any other during 2023. With inauguration day fast approaching, here is our summary for the typical expat who does not indulge in major currency speculation, huge profit-taking from overseas businesses nor off-shore bank accounts hiding their cash. Has the Thai Revenue clarified the position of typical expats? No. It is commonly assumed that the Revenue is mainly interested in rich Thais and foreigners who have manipulated Thai tax rules in the past to avoid payments from overseas. Typical expats with home-country pensions or social security allowances are not part of this agenda, though in theory they could be caught in the crossfire. Talks are continuing between senior accountancy firms, lobby groups and the Revenue about this and other issues. Don’t expect answers any time soon. Will my international cash transfers to Thailand from January 1 2024 be reduced on arrival by a Bank of Thailand tax levy? No. There will not be any changes from current practice. You pay tax in arrears in Thailand by registering at the Revenue for a tax identification number and paying tax due, if any, in the next fiscal year. There is no PAYE procedure in Thailand. The misunderstanding that Thailand will tax international transfers as the cash arrives is a widespread misconception hould I apply for a tax identification number? Not unless you receive an instruction from a government source or the immigration, both very unlikely scenarios. It is almost certain that, at any rate in the early years, tax registration will be voluntary. If you believe you have been taxed already on your cash sent to Thailand, it’s best to do nothing now. There is no need to employ the services of tax accountants if you are a typical expat (unless working here on a work permit which is a separate subject). The tax situation as regards cash sent to Thailand to purchase property is a separate source of ambiguity. Most countries with expats here have a double taxation treaty with Thailand, so is that relevant? That depends on the exact wording of complex documents which differ substantially one from another. Double taxation treaties are designed to be used only in cases where Thailand and the first country cannot agree on who has the right to tax. If Thai Revenue were to clarify unambiguously that previously taxed income would not be retaxed, the issue would largely die. If I need to later, how will I prove that my cash transfers to Thailand have already been taxed? This will vary on an individual basis. An expat’s tax return or the response by the internal revenue service of the first country might suffice, or a simple statement on a tax form might be acceptable. Few experts, if any, believe that the Thai Revenue has the staffing or the expertise to deal with more than 300,000 expats who are tax residents because they spend more than 180 days here in a fiscal year. It bears repeating that the registration process will likely be voluntary. The Thai government is looking for the big fish, Thai or foreign, and not the small fry. What is the Thai government really up to? The new post-coup government simply wants to raise cash, in part to help pay for its populist policies such as the 10,000 baht give away scheme. One can assume that nobody in authority has yet thought seriously about the effects of the change on the expat market here and the potential unpopularity amongst long-term visa holders including one year retirement extensions, Elite and the 10 year Long Term Residence. If you are an expat living in Thailand for at least half the year, without any major financial secrets to keep from Thai Revenue, then it’s best to do nothing until the situation is clearer. That’ll take several months yet. But no point in packing your bags in disgust and leaving for Cambodia. They are a CRS country too.

The original decision to exclude non-Thais was unfortunate and now I am heartened to learn also short-lived. A tip of the hat to you and Z.

It's good to bear in mind that even though the elites like to think of themselves as above all others, they don't like to reminded that they represent far less than five percent of the population. Thankfully I don't rub elbows with any of them. They're free, as you say, to "loathe" whomever they wish. And I'm sure the feelings are mutual all around. It's not just us gays who are drawn to Thailand for ts seedier side. Straights out number us and seek out their own places of interest. Taken as a whole, sex sells and no one is more aware of that than the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Chamber of Commerce. The fact that the author Kerr, accomplished as he might be, can do nothing to change that.

Siam Heritage Hotel -- I just stayed there on the tail end of last trip I booked a room for 2 with breakfast through Agoda. At cheek-in I was alone but was issued two keys, even through I was unaccompanied. I had no problem bringing in ST guests. However, if you bring a guest to breakfast, hotel will require that the guest register .And that can be the only guest you can register during your stay. (since I had booked room for 2, I was not charged any additional fee). On the desk of my room there was a notice that stated that any guest would be assessed a 900 baht fee. It was the same notice that was there about 15 years ago when I last stayed at this place. The rooms are well equipped with comfortable bed, excellent shower for 2 and quiet AC. Ask for a room in the bak that are more distant from noise of Surawong. Small pool and fitness center on top floor (9). ============== Montien Hotel -- Of the hotels mentioned above, I believe the only one with no-guest policy is the Montien. It has a new wing and draws mainly upscale Chinese and Thai-Chinese clientele. =============== Amara Hotel -- No problem at all with guests. Great rooftop pool with plenty of lounge chairs if that's important. Recommended.

You’ve told us that it’s been years since you’ve been in a gay bar and I take you at your word. I’m just winding down a two-month visit. I visit massage shops in Silom or Saphan Kwai daily. Every evening I’m circulating around Silom and have a pretty good handle on the gay scene for lack of a better phrase. The boys I’ve come to know are not here illegally. They make their regular border runs to keep their passports current. The bar scene has evolved. The biggest change was not the result of lack of business but the sale and redevelopment of Soi Twilight. Many of the bars migrated to Patpong 2 and Soi 4. I believe that the bar owners like the variety the ASEAN boys bring to the table. Certainly the customers do. There is certainly no denying that sites like Grindr have altered the dating scene and will continue to do so. But there’ll always be enough of people like me who want to see the product up close and personal. As for the Army hating the gay scene, I don’t buy it. I spent time in the army and found as many opportunities to meet like-minded people as in civilian life—perhaps even more. Think about it. There were 49-60 young men living in tight quarters and training hard together. No body talked about it but they sure as hell did it. I don’t worry about the elites turning on the gay community. All they want is grandchildren and Thai men can provide those and still engage in other pursuits.

From Pattaya News Today, December 5th, marks a day of special significance for the people of Thailand – it is Father’s Day, commemorated in honor of the late, great King Bhumibol Adulyadej, whose birthday falls on this date. Although the beloved monarch passed away in 2016, his legacy lives on, and Father’s Day remains a cherished occasion for Thais to express their gratitude and love for their fathers. As Thailand celebrates Father’s Day, families gather to honor their fathers, expressing their love and appreciation through heartfelt gestures and meaningful interactions. Many Thais also wear yellow shirts, the color associated with Monday, the King’s birthday, as a symbol of respect and gratitude.

From Tourism Authority of Thailand The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched the ’Vijit Chao Phraya 2023’, a dazzling light and color event along Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River. Part of the Thailand Winter Festival, this 31-night spectacle features light-and-sound shows, projection mappings, fireworks, and cultural performances at five key locations: Rama VIII Bridge, Wat Arun, Wichai Prasit Fort, Memorial Bridge, and River City Bangkok, extending to ICONSIAM. Each venue hosts nightly shows from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., offering unique experiences such as 3D laser displays, light mapping, and cultural narratives. Prominent landmarks along the river, including ICONSIAM and Asiatique, are also participating in the festivities. The event, which is expected to generate significant tourism revenue, will culminate in the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2024 at Wat Arun on December 31st. Updates can be followed on the event’s official Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/vijitchaophraya2023. (NNT)

Dream on, Moses.

You seem to have conveniently forgotten about The Ukraine.

That can change in a heartbeat if the economy undergoes another 90’s era depression.

I agree that there’s an influential minority that share that view. However, Thailand has likewise never been more conscious of the flip side of that argument. At the moment it has a lock on benefit of that reputation: the significant disposal income that represents and they’re not eager to lose it. They will hold their nose and take the money.

We all should be so well preserved 🙂

From Thai PBS World Pattaya police explain alleged bribery in child prostitution case Pattaya police issued a statement today in an attempt to clarify a German media report, claiming that a German tourist, who was arrested for buying sexual services from an underage girl in Pattaya bar in September last year, was released after allegedly paying a million baht bribe to police before leaving Thailand. In response to the accusation made in the DW documentary, Pattaya police said in its statement that that, on September 10th last year, police and local administration officials raided the Cobra beer bar in Bang Lamung district, after it was alleged that sexual services by underage girls were being offered to customers. The bar’s owner, a Thai woman identified as Ornthana Yothee, 42, and her British partner, were arrested and charged with providing the services of prostitutes. The police expanded their investigation and claim that a German customer used to buy sexual services from an underage employee of the bar. They arrested him on September 24th in a hotel in Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri. Two days later, the German suspect was taken to the Pattaya court, to have his detention extended for further questioning. The suspect then sought bail and the application was granted by the court on the condition that he must report to the court on November 14th, or his 500,000 baht surety would be confiscated. On November 7th, the German suspect flew out of Thailand. Pol Lt-Gen Somprasong Yentuam, commissioner of Region 2 Provincial Police Bureau, said he had ordered an investigation into the bribery allegation made in the documentary. He said that, since several law enforcement agencies were involved in the case, the police would try to uncover what went wrong and which agency was responsible. The statement from the police did not specifically address the one million baht which is alleged to have been paid, or whether the 500,000 baht “bail surety” was part of it.

The Bangkok Post is reporting that video is now blocked in Thailand. The Post is also reporting that police are investigating an alleged 1 million baht bribe paid by a German man released from a sex-related charge involving his Pattaya bar. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2697609/police-probing-sex-charge-bribe-claim