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From Pattaya Mail Thailand is poised to regain its Category 1 status from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) by February 2025, following extensive safety improvements and regulatory adjustments. This upgrade will enable Thai airlines to resume direct flights to the United States after a nine-year hiatus. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, announced that the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) had successfully addressed the safety concerns that led to the downgrade of Thailand’s aviation status from Category 1 to Category 2 in 2015. The FAA conducted a thorough inspection of Thailand’s aviation safety standards from November 11-15, 2024, with its experts confirming that most of the required improvements had been made. Only minor issues remain, which are expected to be resolved before the final assessment in early 2025. The reclassification will mark a significant milestone for the Thai aviation industry, allowing Thai airlines to resume direct services to the U.S., thereby boosting international air transport and further enhancing Thailand’s connectivity. ============= I think the only way that this will prove profitable is if Thai acquires ultra long range equipment so make non-stop service from East and west coasts.

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon Unofficial government adviser Thaksin Shinawatra this week reaffirmed his desire to see a new comfort zone for foreign property buyers and long lease holders. He thus joins real estate dealers and potential investors in urging the necessary legal reforms to permit up to 75 percent of condominium units to be foreign owned and to extend maximum leases on various types of property from 30 (normally) to 90 years. At the moment, not more than 49 percent of condo units can be in foreign ownership to ensure Thais retain majority control, whilst most land leases (eg on villas) are a maximum of 30 years to avoid any suggestion the country is too indulgent to more than one generation of foreigners. Given that the Thai economy overall is still stuck with low growth rates, the potential reforms are intended to create much-needed extra revenue and to motivate the property market as a whole. The main sticking point is the fear in traditionalist quarters that the Pheu Thai administration is selling rather than saving the country. Thus, it is argued that expanding the foreign quota for condominium ownership risks “outsiders” taking over control of committees or conspiring with others to dominate whole sections of some cities. Condo prices may irrationally skyrocket as happened recently in Canada when there was a rapid influx of foreign purchases. According to the Housing Business Association (HBA), actual reforms are likely to be complex. For example, the extension of the foreign quota in condominiums could depend on a minimum sale price of, say, 10 million baht, and be restricted to cities which are already popular with foreigners. Moreover, taxes on foreign-owned units could be raised and the right to sit on juristic committees could be restricted to ensure Thai voting members remain the majority. As regards land leases, HBA suggests a new framework is required too. The illegality of nominee shareholders needs to be prohibited in new legislation and bold frameworks should be established to regulate land use according to urban planning regulations and zoning requirements. There might be a maximum size of 4 rai to prevent foreign-dominated companies buying up rural land wholesale for industrial development or profitable investment. Reforming Thailand’s property laws is not new. The military-backed government following the 2014 coup approved a regulation for foreigners investing at least 40 million baht might purchase a rai of land, but withdrew consent after a storm of protest. The resistance to the junta was sparked by several groups, including the then opposition Pheu Thai party which is now in the driving seat. Whatever proposals are adopted by Thailand’s parliament in 2025, if any, one feature is already very obvious. The devil will lurk in the detail.

From The Thaiger Thailand’s notorious “rental wife” trend is turning heads and sparking heated debates. Dubbed the “black pearl” phenomenon, this controversial practice is thriving in Pattaya’s red-light districts, offering foreign tourists a temporary taste of companionship for a fee. The practice, often called “temporary marriage,” sees women from impoverished rural areas become companions to tourists, offering services ranging from casual companionship to acting as tour guides. Contracts last anywhere from a few days to several months, with fees varying based on the woman’s looks, age, and education—ranging from US$1,600 to an eye-watering US$116,000. Lavert A. Emmanuel’s new book, Thai Taboo: The Rise of Wife Rental in Modern Society, dives into this shadowy world, describing how the practice, once hidden, has now become a significant income source for young people struggling to make ends meet. “This isn’t just a transactional arrangement. Some women end up marrying their clients, while others maintain long-term paid relationships.”

From Pattaya News On November 28th at Pattaya Police Station, Pol. Lt. Gen. Yingyos Thepchamnong, acting Regional Police Commissioner for Provincial Police Region 2, presided over a press conference to announce the results of the operation titled “Operation Pattaya No Parasites” The operation aimed to sweep away crimes, especially transnational in Chonburi and Pattaya, to build tourist confidence. Pol. Lt. Gen. Yingyos said Chonburi is the home to an internationally famous tourist city like Pattaya, so it attracts large numbers of tourists from around the world every year. However, issues such as crimes, illegal activities by foreign workers, and transnational crime have increasingly become concerning in the province. Illegal foreign workers and call center scams: Officers arrested 17 Chinese nationals involved in an illegal transnational money lending scheme, with an estimated cash flow of 392.15 million baht. Unauthorized production and sale of herbal products: Officers raided three shops, arresting 11 individuals (7 foreign workers) and confiscating 27 illegal herbal products falsely advertised with exaggerated claims. Illegal foreign workers: Officers detained 109 foreign nationals working without permits or performing jobs that are not allowed for foreigners. Illegal country entry: Officers arrested 469 foreign nationals for illegally entering Thailand. Overstaying visas: Officers apprehended 33 individuals for overstaying their visas. Failure to report foreign resident accommodations: Officers found 249 violations under Section 38 of the Immigration Act. Firearms offenses: Officers arrested 42 people for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, seizing 23 firearms. Drug offenses: Officers arrested nine suspects, seizing 300,037 methamphetamine pills and 4.2 grams of crystal methamphetamine. Street racing: Officers seized 33 motorcycles involved in reckless driving and arrested two Kuwaiti nationals for dangerous driving. All offenders were already prosecuted. Homeless individuals and beggars: Officers relocated 14 homeless individuals, 7 of whom tested positive for drugs. Additionally, 33 foreign beggars and 2 street vendors were apprehended.

From Pattaya Mail The view from above for Friday night’s fireworks over Pattaya Beach. The show continues tonight. November 30 7:30 PM: Opening Highlight Performance 7:45 PM: Fireworks Display by Hong Kong SAR 8:05 PM: Fireworks Display by Serbia 8:25 PM: Live Music Performance by Bossanovy 9:25 PM: Fireworks Display by Germany 9:45 PM: Fireworks Display by the United Kingdom 10:05 PM: Fireworks Display by the Philippines 10:25 PM: Concert by Slapkiss 11:30 PM: End of Festival

Duplicate post in error

The old Robinsons building was completely gutted and reopened as Silom Edge only a few years ago as I recall. Although I haven’t been above the fourth floor, it appears to have been constructed to updated building codes. Here a diagram of the 9th floor taken from the company’s website. I’m unsure exactly where on floor Beef is located. The most import features in case of fire are the two (GREEN) fire exit stairwells. Elevators should not be used in fire conditions. For information about the complex, go to: https://www.silomedge.com/en/

I get a view of rear of Meridien and side of Amara and both appear nearly fully occupied tonight.

https://www.facebook.com/beef.bkkbar/

Thailand responds to market opportunities faster than anyplace on globe.

…..or Patpong and Bangkok’s other “entertainment” areas for that matter.

From the Thaiger Bangkok’s skyline has a new star, and it’s shimmering with royal splendour. The stunning Rama X Bridge, now fully completed across the Chao Phraya River, is set to officially open in a grand ceremony presided over by none other than His Majesty the King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua on December 14. Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) Governor Surachet Laophulsuk revealed that the bridge, officially known as “Saphan Thotsamarachan,” will be ready to welcome traffic by the end of December, or at the very latest, early January. The cable-stayed marvel is a crucial part of an 18.7-kilometre elevated highway, linking the Rama III-Dao Khanong expressway with Bangkok’s Western Beltway while interfacing seamlessly with the Chaloem Maha Nakhon and Si Rat expressway systems. Stretching 780 metres, the bridge boldly connects Rat Burana district on the Thonburi side to the bustling Yannawa district on the Bangkok side, running parallel to its older sibling, the Rama IX Bridge.

From Pattaya Mail The exact number of expats currently living in Bangkok and Pattaya isn’t explicitly detailed in official sources like the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). However, the MFA does indicate that Bangkok is home to the largest population of expatriates in Thailand due to its role as the nation’s capital and a hub for international businesses, diplomatic missions, and educational institutions. In Pattaya, expats are largely retirees, business owners, and individuals working in hospitality or tourism sectors. Recent reports and visa data show that non-immigrant visa holders, including retirees and business professionals, significantly contribute to the expat population in these cities. Bangkok hosts a large number of working expatriates, while Pattaya sees a concentration of retirees, particularly from Western countries. As of 2024, Thailand remains a popular destination for expatriates, with an estimated 3-4 million foreign residents across the country. Bangkok and Pattaya stand out as key hubs for expatriates, each hosting diverse communities with distinct characteristics. Bangkok is home to the largest expat population in Thailand, estimated at 250,000 to 300,000 individuals. The capital serves as a major business, cultural, and educational center, attracting professionals in finance, IT, education, and multinational corporations. Its modern infrastructure, international schools, and vibrant lifestyle options make it a top choice for expatriates. Popular districts among expats include Sukhumvit, Silom, and Sathorn. Pattaya, known for its beachside lifestyle, is home to around 50,000 to 60,000 expatriates, a significant proportion of whom are retirees. The city’s lower cost of living, mixed with modern amenities and a thriving tourism sector, appeals to retirees, business owners, hospitality workers, and digital nomads. The community in Pattaya is growing, especially as the city develops more family-friendly and investment opportunities. Expats in both cities come for various reasons, including retirement, business opportunities, education, and the digital nomad lifestyle. Trends show a rise in younger expats, particularly in digital fields, along with a growing number of Russian expatriates in Pattaya and Phuket. The introduction of long-term visa programs, such as the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa, has also contributed to this growth. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/news/expat-population-in-bangkok-and-pattaya-a-growing-hub-for-retirees-professionals-and-digital-nomads-481783

+1

The cost of pitting those older aircraft back into flying condition will be enormous. They should have mothballed them in Australia dry country. Previous poor management and much sharper and better financed competition are headwinds I doubt it can match..

From the.Nation Thai Airways on Tuesday announced an ambitious business strategy aimed at expanding its market share to 35% by 2029. The announcement by CEO Chai Eamsiri at a press conference on Tuesday follows the airline's recent progress in its rehabilitation plan and ongoing capital restructuring efforts, coinciding with the pricing of newly issued ordinary shares. Highlighting the global aviation industry's projected growth, Chai emphasised the opportune moment for Thai Airways to enhance its operations. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts the aviation market will reach $US 996 billion by the year-end and more than double to over $US 1.99 trillion by 2043. The IATA report estimates that passenger numbers will surge to 8.6 billion by 2043, with the Asia-Pacific region driving the majority of growth at a rate of 5.3%. Key to the airline's strategy is expanding its network for both short and long-haul flights, creating a comprehensive connection system primarily focusing on the Asia-Pacific and Southeast Asian regions. Following a significant 40% market share loss in 2013 that reduced its current share to 26%, Thai Airways aims to reclaim ground by targeting a 35% market share by 2029, the CEO said. By the year-end, the airline plans to operate a fleet of 77 aircraft serving 62 global destinations.

Based on inside information, it was. 😉

Not uncommon to see massage guys piss into shower drain. —————- From CNN Health Doctors say it’s fine to pee in the shower Here’s a secret that’s not really a secret — many people pee in the shower. Maybe you’re one of those people who don’t care since it’s all going down the same drain, or perhaps you’re one of those who find it unhygienic. When it comes to going number one in the shower, urologists find it generally safe for both men and women. “There’s no downside, and it is just convenient for some people,” said Dr. Karyn Eilber, a professor of urology at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles. “It’s really personal preference that people don’t like to associate a place where you clean yourself in the shower to a place where you also do some elimination.” Urinating in the shower is unlikely to create any health problems, according to urologists, and it’s not likely to clog up the drain. Still, there are certain scenarios in which using the shower as a makeshift toilet might not be a good idea. A common argument against standing up and urinating for women is that the position does not allow pelvic floor muscles to relax, leading to forced straining and incomplete emptying of the bladder. However, Dr. David Shusterman, a urologist and chief physician at Modern Urologist in New York City, said this assertion is not true. The two muscles controlling the urine flow from your bladder are called the urinary sphincters. One is at the base of the bladder and another near the pelvic floor. Shusterman said pelvic floor muscles do weaken when people try to force urine out. That’s because straining yourself to push tightens the sphincters and puts extra pressure on the pelvic muscles and bladder, making urine hard to release. You can avoid this forced straining by peeing in the shower. “In a warm shower, it’s very easy for you just to relax the sphincter and let the urine come out,” he said. “Contrary to claims of urinating in the shower being unhealthy, I think it’s actually healthy.” Eilber said urine gets contaminated with bacteria when you have an infection, such as a urinary tract infection, or UTI. Still, she said people should not worry about catching an infection if someone with a UTI peed in a public shower since the shower water would wash the urine away. “I wouldn’t worry about getting an infection from someone urinating in public bathing areas as much as any mold or fungus you’re stepping in,” Eilber said. The only caveat is if bacteria get trapped in the skin while peeing. Shusterman said men with foreskin have to pull back to pee safely, and if they do not retract it, urine can get trapped underneath the skin. Doing so creates an environment for fungus to grow, increasing the risk of fungal infections. Women need to spread their labia to avoid bacteria from contaminated urine getting trapped inside the vagina. A shower would be helpful to wash away urine residue, he noted. Since showers wash urine away, Eilber said it is generally OK for urine to land on legs and feet. However, when contaminated urine lands on an open wound, there is a low chance of infection, she said. Urine is food for bacteria and fungi, Shusterman said. When it lands on an open wound, it can make the wound hard to heal because bacteria now have nourishment to keep growing, increasing the risk of bacterial infections. He advised putting a wet dressing on the wound to keep it clean and dry. If you’re constantly urinating in the shower, Shusterman said there’s a risk of developing a psychological association between the sound of running water and the urge to pee. Since the two events happen together, the brain becomes conditioned to relax the bladder and the sphincter when it hears the noise, allowing urine to leak out. Eilber said this link is not much of a problem for most people, as they just find it convenient to urinate in the shower without a second thought. However, for people who already have an overactive bladder, she noted that the noise can trigger involuntary urine loss. People with overactive bladders will have that urge to go when hearing running water from a sink, toilet or shower. Continues at https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/26/health/peeing-in-shower-wellness/index.html

After I had first sex with girl at age 19, a buddy told me same thing. Either urban legend or sage advice.

“Beef,” the bar that was originally situated on Soi 4, has relocated to the ninth floor at Silom Edge complex at intersection of Rama 4. Friday and Saturday, 2100 to 0300 Sunday to Thursday, 2100 to 0200

March means to move in a direct and purposeful manner. Consequently most of us must find ourselves doing so as we walk toward venues that have the promise of sex. Maybe that’s why military types appeal to many of us.

Can understand why someone may wish to own gold but cannot understand why they would display it while traveling. From Bangkok Post PATTAYA: A Swedish tourist told police that a thief stole about 42,000 baht worth of valuables from him early Wednesday morning. Lars Reikwike, 65, told police in front of Pattaya City 8 School at about 3.30am on Wednesday that a man approached him there and stole his gold ring worth about 40,000 baht and 2,000 baht in cash. A 50-year-old taxi motorcyclist who identified himself as Winai said the Swedish man, who appeared intoxicated, was on a roadside waiting for a taxi when the suspect, who he said appeared to be transsexual, approached the foreigner. Mr Winai said he rushed to separate them in a bid to prevent a crime. Later, he said, he learned about the theft but the suspect had left the scene before police arrived. The motorcyclist said the suspect had frequented the area. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2909650/swedish-tourist-loses-b42-000-to-pattaya-thief

From Pattaya News On November 26th, 2024, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, the Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), revealed factors supporting Thai tourism growth in late 2024. Flight recovery and increased forward bookings signal strong momentum, with ticket reservations to Thailand rising 28% compared to last year. Key source markets include Germany, South Korea, the UK, the U.S., Japan, and Russia. TAT predicts a peak of 500,000 foreign visitors per day during the final three days of 2024, fueled by nationwide countdown celebrations and relaxed entry measures. These include visa-free entry for tourists, business travelers, and short-term workers from 93 countries, with a 60-day stay permitted. Visa on Arrival (VOA) has also been expanded to 31 countries, up from 19, while the Destination Thailand Visa supports work-and-travel stays. Temporary suspension of immigration forms at key entry points until April 2025 further enhances convenience, according to Thapanee. However, domestic tourism faces hurdles due to slow economic recovery, high household debt, and cautious spending among Thais. Outbound tourism, on the other hand, is growing, with over 1.1 million Thais traveling abroad from October 12th–27th, an 8.19% increase from the previous year. Contributing factors include a stronger baht, school holidays, and promotions on international airfares, making regional destinations particularly attractive.

From Pattaya Mail A market strategist at Krungthai GLOBAL MARKETS, Poon Panichphiboon, revealed on November 26 that the Thai baht opened this morning at 34.74 baht per U.S. dollar, weakening from the previous day’s close of 34.61 baht. The projected trading range for today is expected to be between 34.60-34.85 baht per dollar. Since last night, the baht (USDTHB) has shown slight depreciation, moving in a sideways-up pattern within a range of 34.47-34.75 baht per dollar. This is despite the overall weakening of the U.S. dollar, influenced by a risk-on sentiment in the U.S. financial markets and a decline in the U.S. 10-year bond yield. The market has reacted to news of Donald Trump nominating Scott Besant as the new Treasury Secretary under his potential second administration, calming fears of aggressive trade protectionism and massive fiscal stimulus policies that could increase the U.S. budget deficit. However, the baht faces continuous pressure from gold transaction flows, as gold prices plunged by more than 2.4% overnight. The drop reflects reduced market concerns over Middle Eastern conflicts, following reports that Israel is nearing a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. Additionally, the baht remains under pressure from crude oil transaction flows as oil prices fell by another 3%, driven by easing concerns over geopolitical tensions in the region. Today, market players are focused on evaluating the monetary policy direction of major central banks, including the Federal Reserve (Fed), the Bank of England (BOE), and the European Central Bank (ECB). Key insights will come from the Fed’s latest FOMC meeting minutes, expected around 2:00 AM Thailand time on Wednesday, and statements from officials of the major central banks. ======== XE Currency showing these cross rates as of posting: Euro 36.37 Pound 43.63 CAD 24.67

Or Z. 🙂