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No matter when this finally occurs, it was inevitable as these two parcels represent the most valuable real estate asset in Bangkok’s business district. A forward thinking developer would most likely make accommodation for the Patpong Night Market. It has become such a tourist magnet that it would be foolhardy not to. And I can see venues like Jupiter, and maybe even Stranger Bar, also being included because they would attract international spenders with high disposable income to the new development, demonstrating Thailand’s much heralded “soft power.” Certainly the restaurant bars could compete for a spot if they can make the rent. Foodland saw this coming and already secured a new foothold in the Park Silom building across the way. But I can also envision it opening another space, along with the Took Lae Dee restaurant. As for the boy bars, they’ll have to find new homes. One promising location mentioned above behind Mango Tree is a bit off the beaten path but it may prove ideal. There’s already four gay venues on the soi. It will prove somewhat tricky timing the moves. If you relocate too soon, you may miss out on another year or two in your current, profitable venue. But wait too long and you forgo the choicest properties. And in any case, you don’t want to be last man standing. Just as the closing of Twilight was not the end of the boy bar scene, neither will this be.

You won’t find any undernourished cats in Lumpini. Many have been adopted by locals who come by daily to feed their favorites. The cats are territorial and hang out in the same places. I enjoy counting cats on each visit and came up with 41 spottings on last circuit.

From Bangkok Post Bangkok’s metro system is known for its efficiency, but one station stands out as an architectural masterpiece: Sanam Chai MRT Station. Designed to resemble a Rattanakosin-era throne hall, this underground station is a must-visit for travellers and history enthusiasts alike. More than just a transportation hub, it is a gateway to some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, including Wat Pho, Museum Siam and the bustling Pak Khlong Talad flower market. Step inside Sanam Chai MRT, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a grand palace rather than a subway station. Designed by renowned architect Dr Pinyo Suwannakiri, the station pays homage to the grandeur of the Rattanakosin period, blending traditional Thai aesthetics with modern functionality. Golden lotus capitals adorn the columns, while intricate ceiling patterns and floral motifs transport commuters to Thailand’s royal past. The design reflects Bangkok’s deep-rooted history and cultural heritage, making it one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world. Continues with photos https://www.nationthailand.com/life/travel/40046898

NOTE — What could these “appealing profiles” possibly be” 🙂 From The Thaiger Police in Chiang Rai have arrested nine Chinese nationals involved in a significant hybrid scam operation, impersonating individuals with appealing profiles to target victims in the United States and Canada, persuading them to invest in cryptocurrency. The operation was carried out yesterday, February 28, with oversight from Police Lieutenant General Kritthaphon Yeesakorn and several other senior officers from region 5 and Chiang Rai province. The suspects, aged between 20 and 32, include Cao TaiQing, Tu Xing, Yi Xiu, Duan Guang Shun, Li Jiawei, Yang Lianwei, Cheng yue, Jrang Kai Hang, and Huang RangXin, along with a 21 year old Thai woman, Orathai. Police confiscated 14 computers, 81 mobile phones, and internet connectivity devices. The initial investigation indicated violations of the Computer Crime Act, Immigration Act of 1979, and the Foreign Worker Management Act. The arrests followed intelligence reports about a group of Chinese individuals perpetrating Internet scams from Ban Du subdistrict, Mueang district, Chiang Rai province. Police discovered the suspects had rented a house in the area, leading to a raid where the suspects were apprehended, and the aforementioned items were seized. In similar news, an ex-inmate has been arrested in Phuket for impersonating a well-known politician to deceive a woman into investing in a fraudulent cryptocurrency scheme, costing her 22 million baht. Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) officers apprehended the suspect at a residence in Koh Kaew, Mueang district. He faces charges of public fraud and inputting false data into a computer system. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/chiang-rai-police-arrest-9-in-crypto-scam-targeting-us-canada

Based on a tip from @10tazione, I was able to confirm that some shops on Silom Soi 4 are looking for new quarters because the sale of the parcel now seem imminent . Although no hard date was mentioned, it’s understood that proprietors are already eyeing available space in Patpong and elsewhere. One source said it was at least a year or more out while a rumor of an earlier date was also circulating. However, a blogger claims that developers have their eyes set on Patpong with both parcels being folded into a larger project but with a considerably longer time frame.

The United States embassy in Thailand has issued the following alert: On 27 February 2025, the Royal Thai Government deported a group of 45 Uyghurs asylees to China. Similar deportations have prompted violent retaliatory attacks in the past. Most notably, in the wake of a 2015 deportation of Uyghurs from Thailand, improvised explosive devices detonated at the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok killing 20 people and injuring 125 others as this shrine is heavily visited by tourists from China. Actions to Take: The U.S. Mission in Thailand advises U.S. citizens to Exercise increased caution and vigilance, especially in crowded locations frequented by tourists due to the potential for increased collateral risk Review personal security plans Follow the instructions of local authorities https://th.usembassy.gov/security-alert-u-s-embassy-bangkok-thailand/ =============== The United Kingdom embassy in Thailand has issued the following alert: There are regular terrorist attacks in the 4 provinces in the southern tip of Thailand by the border with Malaysia. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to these provinces. Martial law is in place in most areas in these provinces, which means security forces have greater security enforcement and investigative powers. See Regional risks. However, terrorist attacks could take place anywhere in Thailand. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand/safety-and-security

Yes we do. In the last few weeks in particular, Japanese were frequent visitors to Good Boy and Freshboy, and this is not unusual. On one evening, they actually represented the most dominant portion of customers for a FB show. Know four guys from those bars who were offed by Japanese customers in past week.

Attended FB from 9:20:to 11:45 last night. About 40 guys playing to nearly full house by 10:30. Dozen guys in bc show. Rotation breaks up show about midway through. Instead of walking down main staircase, turned left to check out how Hot Male upstairs bar was faring under new management. It proved quite busy with host waiters—and I suspect some show boys—were drinking with good number of patrons. Did not go into show bar.

With the onset of low season, the promotional rates and discounts in The following SK shops are coming too fast to keep up to date: Phetboy, One Spa, KK Massage, Phoenix Massage and Home Spa, Best way to keep abreast is by LINE postings.

From Los Angeles Times For many years, Chinese tourism fueled the economy of this island paradise, known for its tropical weather, stunning sunsets and foreign-friendly accommodations. But with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine three years ago, Thailand's Phuket Island is transforming into a different kind of getaway: a refuge for Russians fleeing military conscription, political oppression and the economic impact of Western sanctions. Businesses in Phuket — many still recovering from the pandemic — have responded quickly and enthusiastically. Restaurants now serve sweet porridge. Grocery stores sell sauerkraut, borscht and blinis with cottage cheese. Gyms offer ice baths and saunas, while Russian-language signs have popped up around busy parts of town. One entertainment lounge that opened two years ago advertises trivia nights, movie showings and live performers — all in Russian. Phuket is becoming "Little Moscow," jokes Boon Yongsakul, vice president of the Phuket Real Estate Assn. Some of the island's attractions, such as international schools and long-term visa options, have long been a draw for foreigners. But as Western sanctions have made bank transactions and travel through Europe more difficult for Russians, Phuket's cash-friendly real estate market and direct flights from the Middle East have enhanced its appeal. As of 2022, Russia has been the largest source of foreign arrivals in Phuket, according to data from the Phuket Tourist Police. Since then, the number of visitors has quadrupled to 1.03 million annually. Hungry for more tourists, Thailand has encouraged the trend to continue. The Tourism Authority of Thailand aims to attract 2.2 million Russian tourists this year, up from about 1.7 million in 2024. In 2023, Moscow opened a consulate in Phuket to serve the growing number of Russian nationals. “As more and more people realize it’s safe here, the communities get bigger,” Yongsakul said. “They have their own churches, their own businesses, their own food.” Bogdan Martianov, a 25-year-old tech worker from St. Petersburg, Russia, wanted to avoid being drafted to fight in the Ukraine war. So he flew to Argentina and sought political asylum. For two years, he lived and worked in La Plata, an hour’s drive from Buenos Aires. Continues at https://www.msn.com/en-us/general/general/russians-seek-escape-from-sanctions-draft-on-thailand-s-phuket-island-not-everyone-is-happy/ar-AA1zK2IC

NOTE — While walking the park with a few friends on a recent evening, we can across the first baby monitor lizard I recall seeing in the park. It found its way ashore, unfazed by a few admirers who were feeding turtles who gather in the same location nightly. It sniffed about before returning to the water. I always give the reptiles a wide berth but they have always been a source of entertainment, as are the weightlifters who push iron relentlessly not far off. From The Thaiger by Bob Scott Bangkok’s iconic Lumpini Park is grappling with a surge of reptilian residents, as the city considers crafty manoeuvres to manage the thriving water monitor lizardpopulation that’s raised eyebrows, not alarms. At the heart of the city, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) faces a slippery challenge: an uptick in water monitors roaming Lumpini Park and the adjacent canal along the bustling Rama 4. Prapas Lueangsirinapha, the BMA’s Environment Department boss, recently spoke out about the concern bubbling among residents as these reptiles leave their mark on the city centre. While protected under the Wild Animal Conservation and Protection Act BE 2562, which forbids hunting or harming them, water monitors are more an asset than a threat. Despite their fearsome appearance, experts from the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand assure the public that these majestic creatures pose no danger to humans unless provoked. In fact, they play a crucial ecological role, feasting on animal carcasses and keeping rodent populations in check. Continues with photos https://thethaiger.com/news/bangkok/bangkok-tackles-rising-water-monitor-numbers-in-lumpini-park

From Pattaya News Helena Lerch, TikTok’s Vice President for Emerging Markets and Public Policy, met with Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra during her visit to Thailand. Paetongtarn welcomed the delegation, expressing excitement over TikTok’s plans for further investment in the country. Lerch revealed that the company intends to invest $8.8 billion in Thailand over the next five years, highlighting the platform’s strong presence, with over 50 million users globally and more than 3 million Thai accounts using TikTok Shop. She also noted the PM’s use of the platform and emphasized the company’s commitment to safety, with over 1,000 employees in Thailand ensuring compliance and content moderation. Paetongtarn inquired about TikTok’s workforce training initiatives in Thailand. Lerch confirmed that discussions had already taken place, with plans to launch training programs next year to develop local talent and digital skills. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/02/28/tiktok-plans-8-8-billion-dollar-investment-in-thailand-over-five-years/

From The Nation Digital travel platform Agoda shares the top five travel habits of Asian Gen Z, revealing a generation that finds inspiration in the digital realm, embraces spontaneity, and values shared experiences. The survey highlights the unique ways travelers aged 18-27, more commonly known as Gen Z, are shaping the future of travel in Asia with a fresh perspective, not only by influencing travel trends but also by setting the stage for future generations to explore the world in innovative ways. 1. TikTok inspiration: social media is the new travel guide Gen Z is blazing a trail on social media, with TikTok leading the way as their top source for travel inspiration. While Millennials lean on friends and family as their preferred source of recommendations, Gen Z is scrolling through TikTok (20%) and Instagram (14%) to discover their next adventure. Despite the digital influence, personal recommendations remain a close second (17%), proving that word-of-mouth still holds sway. 2. Spontaneous spirit: Last-minute bookings on the rise In a world where plans can change in an instant, Gen Z embraces the thrill of last-minute travel more than any other generation. 20% of Gen Z book flights less than a week in advance, outpacing Millennials, Gen X, and Boomers. Accommodations follow suit, with one in four Gen Z travelers making bookings at the eleventh hour, showcasing their penchant for spontaneity. 3. Traveling in tandem: Partnered adventures take the lead For Gen Z, travel is a shared experience, with 38% preferring to explore the world with a partner. Group trips with friends and family vacations also rank high, highlighting the importance of connection and companionship in their journeys. Millennials, on the other hand, prioritize family trips, reflecting a generational shift in travel dynamics. 4. Cost-conscious journeys: Spending habits align across generations When it comes to travel spending, Gen Z and Millennials are on the same page. Both generations prefer to keep accommodation costs under USD 50 per person per night, with Gen Z more inclined to do so (56%) than their Millennial counterparts (44%). Meanwhile, 32% of Gen Z plan to spend between USD 51-100 per person per night compared to 41% of Millennials. This trend underscores a shared commitment to affordable travel without compromising on experiences. 5. Wanderlust unites: The desire to travel transcends generations Despite differing preferences in where different generations find travel inspiration, when they book their travels, and who they go with, the desire to explore the world is universal. Nearly half of Gen Z and Millennials plan to embark on 1-3 trips this year, while a third are aiming for 4-6 adventures. This shared wanderlust bridges generational gaps, proving that the love for travel knows no bounds. Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda shared, "Gen Z is redefining travel with their digital-first approach and spontaneous spirit. At Agoda, we're thrilled to support their adventures with diverse options and the best deals in accommodations, flights and activities, ensuring every trip is as unique as they are." With over 5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda offers endless possibilities for Gen Z travelers to explore the world. Discover the best deals on Agoda's mobile app and start planning your next adventure today. https://www.nationthailand.com/life/travel/40046845

Don’t disagree but I believe that type of detail should be confined to PM’s. Most members are willing to share information on a confidential basis,

Could be. We’ll know when developer announces plan to build condo complex on site.

Typical emergency: I’m going to off this guy but I don’t have enough baht on me. 🙂

Agree about the difference. And in the quid pro world we inhabit, those who do opt to post identities and intimate details of others should expect to read the same about themselves

From The Nation Authorities are probing claims that Chinese investors are buying up condominiums and illegally renting them short-term to foreigners, causing disturbance and security risks for other residents. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said on Wednesday that officials must ensure hotel and rental operators have licences and comply with ministry regulations. “If these renters have permits and follow the regulations, there is nothing that can be done to stop them,” said Anutin, who also serves as deputy prime minister. “However, legal action will be taken if operators or tenants – regardless of their nationality – cause damage to surrounding communities,” he said. The issue went viral on Tuesday when social media users posted comments about businesses renting out condo units at a daily rate. Since condo managers are not permitted to store units’ keys, illegal renters have resorted to leaving the keys in lockers or boxes across the city, instructing tenants on where they can be collected. According to the Drama Addict Facebook, a locker near a som tam eatery in Bangkok was found to contain six locked boxes with condo keys. Police suspect these belong to the same network of illegal Chinese businesses. On Sukhumvit Soi 42, a wooden case was discovered with 29 key boxes stored inside while some keys were even tied to a tree for tenants to collect. Continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40046798

From Pattaya New Three foreign tourists fell victim to theft in Pattaya, with incidents ranging from pickpocketing on a songthaew to a stolen motorcycle and a robbery by a transgender woman at a hotel. At 1:49 AM on February 27th, a 68-year-old Swiss tourist, Mr. Ulich, accompanied by his Thai girlfriend, filed a complaint with Pattaya police, after being pickpocketed on a songthaew (a popular form of public transport vehicle). According to his girlfriend, the couple had just arrived in Pattaya from Hua Hin. On their first day in the city, they took a songthaew from Walking Street in South Pattaya. As the vehicle reached Soi 6 on Pattaya Second Road, two unidentified Thai men, estimated to be between 40 and 50 years old, boarded the bus. Shortly after, at 2:10 AM, another foreign tourist, Mr. Jerome, a French national, also filed a report with Pattaya police. He stated that while walking along South Pattaya Beach, he was approached by a transgender woman offering companionship services. He agreed to take her to his hotel in South Pattaya to hang out, according to him. However, upon arriving at his room, he briefly went to the bathroom. When he came out, the individual had disappeared. Upon checking his belongings, he discovered that 57,000 baht in cash, which consisted of 53,000 baht in euros and 4,000 baht in Thai baht, had been stolen. The money had been hidden inside a sock within his suitcase. Realizing he had been robbed, he immediately reported the crime. Later that night, another tourist, Mr. Mark, an Australian national, arrived at the police station to report the theft of his motorcycle. He stated that he had parked his red Yamaha motorcycle near a beer bar in Soi 7, Pattaya Beach Road, which is less than 200 meters from the police station. Continues at https://thepattayanews.com/2025/02/27/three-foreign-tourists-fall-victim-to-theft-in-pattaya-in-one-night/

In the end, Sunee Plaza entered the death cycle because increasingly fewer people wanted to rent space there. In other words, the ageless fact of real estate life won out: location, location, location.

It sounds like they were hesitant to commit to a larger space because they’re not confident in how the event will sell. As much as I’m a massage aficionado, I would not be interested in attending. I prefer to do my own due diligence the old fashioned way.

Unless it gets tacked on to air ticket, I don’t see how it can be easily accomplished.

NOTE — This was a topic of discussion when it was first introduced last year. It’s not the 300 baht that will deter many visitors; it’s the method on how it will be collected. If it becomes part of the the digital arrivals card, then it will be viewed essentially as a visa fee. From The Nation The tourism tax of 300 baht a person will come into force for foreign tourists by the end of this year, Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said on Thursday. He expects the tourism tax scheme to come into effect during Thailand’s high season later in the year, provided the scheme is endorsed via publication in the Royal Gazette in March. Details of the scheme are not as yet clear, he said, adding that the ministry is working on linking data to the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) to facilitate tax collection. The TDAC will come into force on May 1.Sorawong explained that foreign travellers arriving by air will be charged 300 baht/person/trip. Those who cross into the country either by land and water will also be charged 300 baht, but would be entitled to enter several times within 30-60 days, he said. He said the ministry will summarise this issue at a later date to ensure that all foreigners using a passport to visit Thailand will be able to access life and accident insurance. Sorawong does not expect the tourism tax scheme will cause a decline in foreign arrivals as the tax is low. Several embassies have confirmed that this scheme is a good plan as it will allow travellers to access insurance, he said. He emphasised that the tourism tax system will be one-stop-service to facilitate travellers. “The tourist fee may not be a large amount that would put tourists off, but if collection is complicated, it will be inconvenient. Our aim is to make the process as smooth as possible,” he said. https://www.nationthailand.com/news/tourism/40046796

From Pattaya News Following multiple complaints from local residents about people performing sexual activities at the railway sleeper storage area near Pattaya Railway Station, authorities have finally taken action to solve the issue. The site had reportedly become a meeting spot for both same-sex and opposite-sex partners for several months, with numerous used condoms found littered in the area. Concerns were also raised about public health and the city’s image as a family-friendly destination. In response to the issue, Pol. Col. Navin Sinthurat, Superintendent of Bangamung Police Station, coordinated with railway officials and other relevant agencies to inspect the site on February 25th. During the inspection, railway officials decided to enclose the area with barbed wire fencing to prevent people from entering the area. Signs prohibiting entry will also be put up, and local patrol officers will regularly monitor the site to deter future sexual activities. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/02/26/police-install-barbed-wire-at-infamous-pattaya-railway-spot-after-condom-litter-complaints/