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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You need to get out more, Keith.🙂

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

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

From VN EXpress The Indonesian air safety agency has called for better pilot fatigue monitoring mechanisms after an investigation revealed that both pilots of a commercial aircraft had recently fallen asleep in-flight. A pilot and co-pilot were simultaneously asleep for approximately 28 minutes during a Batik Air flight from south-east Sulawesi to the capital Jakarta on Jan. 25, a preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) said. The report, seen by AFP on March 8, was uploaded to the agency’s website in late February. Indonesia is a vast archipelago with a poor air safety record despite relying heavily on air transport to connect its thousands of islands. One of the pilots had not rested adequately the night before the flight, the report said. The incident resulted in a series of navigation errors, but the Airbus A320’s 153 passengers and four flight attendants were unharmed during the flight, which lasted two hours and 35 minutes. About half an hour after the plane took off, the captain asked permission from his second-in-command to rest for a while, with the request being granted. The co-pilot then took over command of the aircraft, but also inadvertently fell asleep, the report said. "The second-in-command had one-month old twin babies. His wife took care of the babies, and he assisted while at home," the report said. A few minutes after the last recorded transmission by the co-pilot, the area control centre in Jakarta tried to contact the aircraft. It received no answer. Twenty-eight minutes after the last recorded transmission, the pilot woke up and realised his co-pilot was asleep and that the aircraft was not on the correct flight path. He immediately woke his colleague up, responded to the calls from Jakarta and corrected the flight path, the report said. The plane landed safely after the incident. Investigators did not identify the pilots, but said they were both Indonesians and were aged 32 and 28. KNKT urged Batik Air to create detailed procedures to conduct proper and regular cockpit checks and to ensure that pilots and cabin crew were well-rested before their flights. The report, seen by AFP on March 8, was uploaded to the agency’s website in late February. Indonesia is a vast archipelago with a poor air safety record despite relying heavily on air transport to connect its thousands of islands. One of the pilots had not rested adequately the night before the flight, the report said. The incident resulted in a series of navigation errors, but the Airbus A320’s 153 passengers and four flight attendants were unharmed during the flight, which lasted two hours and 35 minutes. About half an hour after the plane took off, the captain asked permission from his second-in-command to rest for a while, with the request being granted. The co-pilot then took over command of the aircraft, but also inadvertently fell asleep, the report said. "The second-in-command had one-month old twin babies. His wife took care of the babies, and he assisted while at home," the report said. A few minutes after the last recorded transmission by the co-pilot, the area control centre in Jakarta tried to contact the aircraft. It received no answer.

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From VN Express China has announced that citizens from six more European countries – Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg – will be able to travel visa-free to China from March 14. "I would like to inform you that starting from March 14, China will further implement the visa-free policy for Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg on a trial basis," Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a press conference in Beijing, as quoted by Global Times. Citizens from these countries will be allowed to stay in China up to 15 days for business, tourism, family visits and transit purposes, Bloomberg reported. In December last year, China waived visas for citizens from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain as it seeks to recover tourism after years of border closures due to Covid.

I'm bumping this post because the cost of making foreign ATM withdrawals in the LOS is about to increase 1 %. The same applies when making reservations directly with a foreign air carrier or hotel booking service while in Thailand. From The Nation From May 1st, Thai commercial banks will charge their customers a 1% Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) fee for making cash withdrawals abroad. A similar fee will also be levied on the use of Visa or Master credit cards for transactions made abroad for goods or services or through online stores which are registered outside Thailand.

From Pattaya News Pattaya Police are investigating the potential suicide of a Czech tourist who was found hanged in an apartment building in Pattaya on Thursday, March 7th, 2024. Pol Lt Thanawee Yarangsi, Deputy Investigator of the Pattaya Police Station, received a report of a deceased tourist at an apartment in Pattaya at 5:00 PM. Rescue workers and police officers were immediately deployed to the scene. The lifeless body of Mr. Petr Vojacek, a 49-year-old Czech citizen, was found hanging from a roof beam in a fifth-floor storage room of the apartment. His name had been revealed by police after authorities reportedly contacted his embassy and family members. A nylon rope was tied around his neck. The body exhibited signs of early decomposition, with body fluids and a strong odor. Authorities assumed that Mr. Petr had likely been deceased for at least three days based on the decomposition. The room was restricted to preserve the incident scene. A preliminary examination revealed no signs of physical violence on the body. Ms. Sirinna Buphadee, the 35-year-old caretaker of the apartment building, informed police that Mr. Petr had checked in on February 28th, 2024. The last time she saw him alive was on March 2nd. A foul odor caused her to investigate the storage room on March 7th, where she discovered Mr. Petr’s body. She immediately contacted the authorities. Pol Lt Thanawee took a photographic record of the scene for evidence. He stated that the victim may take his own life; however, the exact cause of death will be confirmed by a forensic examination at the Police General Hospital.

I'd think the boy has more to say about it than the manager. 🙂

Still recall hanging on to every word of FDR's fireside chats. You youngins don't know the half of it. 🫠

From Thai Enquirer and other sources Six people were arrested after attempting to smuggle 87 animals stuffed in luggage through Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand. Five men and one women, all of whom are Indian nationals, were arrested by Thailand's Customs Department after officials found their luggage suspicious during a security check, reported The Independent. The group was allegedly trying to smuggle the creatures to Mumbai, India. According to the Thai Enquirer, the animals seized include: 29 lizards, such as black-throated monitors 21 snakes, including corn snakes and red bamboo rat snakes 15 birds, such as the bird of paradise and parrots Seven monitor lizards Four chameleons Two squirrels Two bats Two cotton-top tamarins One fishing cat One red panda One Sulawesi bear cuscus One frog One rat

From Pattaya News Pattaya City is collaborating with the Thai Boxing Association and Traditional Thai Boxing Association to host the 5th World Muay Thai Championship. Held from March 11th to the 15th, 2024, at Jomtien Beach, the competition, sponsored by Rage Fight Academy, will not only feature intense Muay Thai boxing fights but also a gracious traditional Thai boxing master’s respect ceremony on March 14th. The championships will take place at the opposite of the D Varee Hotel, kicking off at 5:00 PM daily with free entry for all.

From The Thaiger Filipina transgender beauty contestant speaks out after Bangkok brawl Photo courtesy of pachecolars Instagram via South China Morning Post A Filipina transgender beauty contestant stepped into the spotlight following a viral Bangkok street brawl, seeking to soothe tensions and advocate for respect from the hosts. Two Filipina nationals faced charges for assaulting six Thai transgender individuals outside the Citin Hotel on Soi Sukhumvit 11 on Monday, March 4. The altercation erupted among a group of over 20 tourists, leading to injuries on both sides. Thai transgender individuals swiftly rallied their compatriots on social media, urging them to gather outside the Filipinas’ hotel. Amidst police escorting the suspects, another scuffle ensued. Describing the confrontation, police officer Withawat Chinkam noted potential cultural and racial tensions. Lars Pacheco, who placed sixth in the Miss International Queen pageant, condemned the Filipinas’ actions and urged respectful behaviour abroad.

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That's Putin's sperm sample?