reader

We’ve pretty much exhausted how it came about and what root causes we perceive that could be responsible. And as a few have opined, we’re heavy on the blame but light on solutions. Two American presidents—Carter and later Clinton—expended much high-level energy on bringing about a peace. Conditions conspired to undo those efforts. So what else remains to be tried? The other gnawing question that has yet to be addressed is why did the Israeli government fail to benefit from advance US intelligence that Hamas was preparing for some type of action in the near term.

From Pattaya Mail Jomtien Beach in Pattaya, celebrated for its tranquil coastal beauty, faces a growing challenge jeopardizing its serenity. On Oct 19, concerns escalated as both local and international visitors reported disruptive beach parties persisting into the early morning. At sunrise, the usual sounds of waves and birdsong were replaced by the noise of rowdy gatherings. Complaints detailed young people on the beachfront engaging in alcohol-fueled revelry with loud music, creating an unwelcome routine extending from evening to early morning. The distressing situation includes participants openly urinating in public, disregarding fellow tourists and beachgoers seeking a peaceful experience by the shore. Thai and foreign tourists, anticipating a serene morning at Jomtien Beach, now encounter disruptions from intoxicated individuals and raucous gatherings. Adding to the issue, beachside vendors exacerbate the disturbance by renting Bluetooth speakers and offering chair rental services. Some vendors openly sell alcoholic beverages, apparently avoiding law enforcement intervention. Unlike nearby Bangsaen Beach, where authorities proactively deter gatherings and alcohol consumption, Jomtien Beach has become a hub for unruly parties. Law enforcement at Jomtien Beach typically responds reactively to specific complaints, leading to frustration among beachgoers. Concerns are mounting among local residents and tourists that these disturbances may escalate into criminal activities. Calls for increased police presence and stricter regulations echo through the community to preserve Jomtien Beach’s peaceful and safe reputation.

I wasn’t aware of it until I took a tour of the Patpong Museum (opposite Foodland). It was originally a banana plantation.

Thanks for the update. You write candidly and memorably.

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon An unprecedented boom in the construction of new airports and the refurbishment of existing ones are occurring across south east Asia. The aim is to enable passenger handling in the region to double to 653 million people by the end of the decade. Several countries are competing with each other in the rush to complete, a demand created significantly by the domestic demand from rising middle classes. In Thailand, a satellite terminal opened at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport last month, potentially improving overall capacity by a third once a third runway opens next year. Expansion is also planned at Don Mueang airport, near Bangkok, and U-tapao airport near Rayong whose major expansion awaits the building of a fast-track rail network linking with Bangkok hubs. That railway is still at planning stage as problems persist with the purchase of land. The new Pheu Thai government is also supporting expansion of airports in Phuket, Chiang Mai and other regional centers. Meanwhile, Vietnam is investing US$4 billion to increase capacity at Hanoi’s premier airport to 60 million people, more than twice the current limit. Cambodia has permitted Chinese companies to build new lease-operated airports near Siem Reap (recently opened) and Phnom Penh (optimistically scheduled for completion next year), though they are much further away from the urban centers and will increase passenger costs of travelling downtown by road. A plan to build an underground metro system in Phnom Penh has been delayed to prefer new air facilities. Malaysia and Singapore are both in process of doubling capacity, whilst the Philippines has no fewer than four expansion projects scattered around Manila, almost willy-nilly style. Many of the region’s new airports will incorporate smart technology. For example, Singapore’s building of a new satellite terminal will be a series of sub-terminals to keep passengers separate and at less risk from covid contamination from other flights. Automatic checkins, which minimize contact between ground staff and passengers, are becoming common features and will become universal. With Thailand and Vietnam already operating visa-free travel from China, much of the expansion is expected to increase dramatically flight schedules to and from Chinese cities. Critics point out that the future numbers game may be overblown as estimates are based on the current regional economic climate plus optimistic predictions by aircraft development corporations worldwide. Other variables are the future costs of flying, including tricky ones such as the price of aviation fuel and international political stability, which could throw predictions into disarray. But the countries of south east Asia are now in open competition for massively increased connectivity with air hubs serving both international tourism and economic investment.

The end, certainly not. But the biggest change could be the sale of all of Patpong which is a single parcel wholly owned by one family. At some point, an offer that can’t be refused could come forward. That would result in a dispersal of the more successful gay venues but not their elimination. Many thought the closure of Twilight would herald the end of the gay scene. Didn’t quite turn out that way.

Visit the massage shops on Silom Soi 6 and Saphan Kwai.

The decision to go to war in Ukraine was made by the attacker and not the attacked. Likewise was the case in Israel. At that stage, there can only be one response: defend and retaliate. Trying to trace this all back half-a-century ago to whether the US had appropriate diplomats in place is absurd. Iran, like so many Mideast nations, would end up radicalized one way or the other. The momentum was already in place. When the Arab Spring made its first appearance, many thought it was signaling the beginning of the end of Mideast tensions. That was then and this is now. History rarely takes a chartered course. We can claim, as Peter had, that inaction by the international community that’s permitted Iran to pursue enrichment activities. And it’s a point worth debating. But once the first missiles dropped on Israel, it became academic.

No, just not the answer you desire.🙂

Go back read what I said about Israel making good on its vow to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. It’s understood that if Iran persists in developing one, that would constitute a grave miscalculation of the consequences. If you’re curious what the US might do, this is as clear a statement as you’re going to get: ”While I’m not going to forecast any potential response to these attacks, I will say that we will take all necessary actions to defend US and coalition forces against any threat,” he said. “Any response, should one occur, will come at a time and a manner of our choosing.” Couldn’t have—and won’t—make it any clearer than that. If British assets were attacked, I’m confident we’d see a very similar statement out of Downing Street. Patience is a virtue, Peter, and the Buddha tells us that the future is inexplicable.

I chose not to pre-empt the Defense Department announcement today of military actions by US ground and naval forces against attacks from terrorist organizations. It is likely we will see more of this activity going forward. It should come as no surprise since the US is Israel’s staunchest alley in the region. i doubt that you—or any observer—needed me to tell you that the US wouldn’t sit on its hands in the face of aggression against its assets or its ally. From CNN A US Navy warship operating in the Middle East intercepted multiple projectiles near the coast of Yemen on Thursday, two US officials told CNN. One of the officials said the missiles were fired by Iranian-backed Houthi militants, who are engaged in an ongoing conflict in Yemen. Approximately 2-3 missiles were intercepted, according to the second official. Later Thursday Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed that the USS Carney shot down three land attack missiles as well as several drones that were launched by Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen. The incident was one of a series in recent days with US bases being targeted by drones in Syria and Iraq amid increasing tensions in the region as the war between Israel and Hamas continues. The drone attacks targeting the base in Syria resulted in “minor injuries,” Ryder said. On Wednesday, two drones targeted the al-Tanf garrison in Syria, where US and anti-ISIS coalition forces are based, Ryder said. One drone was engaged and destroyed, and another drone impacted the base resulting in minor injuries to coalition forces, Ryder said. That same morning, in Iraq, early warning systems indicated a possible threat approaching the al-Asad airbase where US personnel are stationed. No attack occurred, but personnel sheltered in place and an American civilian contractor suffered a cardiac episode and died shortly thereafter, Ryder said. On Tuesday, US forces defended against three drones near US and coalition forces in Iraq, Ryder said. Two of the drones targeted the al-Asad airbase, which resulted in minor injuries to coalition forces. And in northern Iraq near Bashur airbase, US forces engaged and destroyed a drone, resulting in no injuries or damage, Ryder said. “While I’m not going to forecast any potential response to these attacks, I will say that we will take all necessary actions to defend US and coalition forces against any threat,” he said. “Any response, should one occur, will come at a time and a manner of our choosing.”

From what I understand from others, joiners not a problem.

Since I no longer do offs from bars and confine myself to massage shops, I enjoy the uncertainties involved. I don’t haggle over what I hope the outcome will be. I guess you might say each massage is a new adventure. At my age, I find that I need that sort of experience more than I need the promise of sex.

We can debate whether or how any particular nation should respond to an attack like the one launched by terrorists against non-combatants a few weeks ago in Israel. We can try to reduce it to well-crafted academic arguments. But what we can’t do—unless we were among those actually subjected to that terror—is experience those emotions and losses first hand no more than we can appreciate what London citizens experienced during the blitz. Nor can we fully understand the motivation behind Air Marshal Sir Arthur Harris’ retaliation tactics. Why? Because war quickly becomes a gravely personal matter when it’s your countrymen who are dying. However, one thing we can appreciate is the need for the support of a loyal ally in the wake of those events.

That’s a bit above my pay grade. Since you’re the one speculating about what the US can and cannot do, I’m content to leave that up to you to determine. I do, however, agree with Vinapu. Israel will make good on its vow to never allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon. Are we talking about the same Russia that has had to appeal to Iran and North Korea for munitions?

From CNN Cambodia’s newest and biggest airport opened to commercial operations in the province of Siem Reap in the country’s northwest this week. The China-funded Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport is now the main gateway to one of the country’s most popular tourist sites, the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Complex. On Monday morning, a flight operated by Thailand’s Bangkok Airways was the first to land at the new airport, which is located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away from the protected area. Using the International Air Transport Association-designated code SAI, it replaces Siem Reap International Airport (REP), which first opened in 1932 and is only a few kilometers away from the Angkor complex. The new airport, funded by China as part of its Belt and Road Initiative at a cost of about $1.1 billion, was designed to initially handle 7 million passengers a year – 2 million more than REP – and has a 3,600-meter-long runway. According to the Economic and Commercial Office of the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, it’s the first overseas international airport to be constructed under a “Build-Operate-Transfer” model by Chinese enterprises and is operated and managed by the Yunnan Aviation Industry Investment Group. Designated a “4E airport,” it can accommodate larger commercial planes, including many of those used on global long-haul routes.

You are correct. I passed by again this afternoon and took a second look. Green Massage is still operating in original location. I now think it was Olivia’s that moved (from second shop now run by Avarin) and into larger space further up Surawong.

It may be incontrovertible in your reasoning but not in mine. So we, as you say, agree to disagree. While Xi and Putin hope to profit from the situation, no autocratic regime has more to lose than Iran if it miscalculates the consequence of future actions.

Attempt as you might to trace current political situation back to US-Iran history pales in comparison to overwhelming impact of the holocaust. Nothing was going to be the same after the systematic slaughter of six million Jews. And nothing will be again.

The weak link in Vietnam’s transportation infrastructure has been its rail network. Although this new service doesn’t represent an increase in speed, it does in comfort that is much needed.

Finally had the opportunity to try this shop today. When I arrived and inquired what guys were available, I was presented with an array of about eight cards with photos. After making my selection, a houseboy accompanied to my cubicle on the third floor and pointed out the shower down the hall. Before leaving, he hung a card with my masseur’s photo on the outside of door. My guy arrived about five minutes after I finished showering. He had a huge smile and the first thing he did was give me an embrace and said he be right back. He was hunkier than the photo suggested but proved himself very agile. Following the workout, we showered together which he succeeded in turning into additional fun. Before leaving the lobby, he brought me a cup of warm tea. One hour oil 400. Mattress pad on the floor. Found the facilities very clean throughout. Gladly adding this place to my other list of Saphan Kwai favorites: K Man, One Spa and KK.

In my post above about massage shops, I incorrectly referred to “Urban Thai” as “Urban Male”. ============ While arriving at Saladaeng station this evening, I discovered that a new, 7-11 type convenience store has opened in a large space on the lower level platform. As you descend the central stairway, you’re greeted by the entrance to Turtle Cafe. It has about everything you expect to find in a 7-11 (including prepared meals) in addition to a McDonald’s style hot an cold beverage counter. Thais are masters of the retail trade.

Completely disagree. If there was no holocaust, we wouldn’t be having this conversation.

From VN Express Vietnam's railway sector is set to put into service a pair of high-quality trains on the popular Hanoi-Da Nang route on Friday, catering to the growing demand from both domestic and international tourists. The high-quality trains have undergone comprehensive refurbishments, including fresh paintwork and meticulous interior enhancements, such as new blankets, sheets, pillows, and window curtains. The bed compartments have been designed to create a luxurious and cozy ambiance. Continues at https://e.vnexpress.net/news/places/luxury-trains-to-come-on-hanoi-da-nang-link-4665587.html To ensure a comfortable and premium experience, the railway sector has installed new water heaters and bright white ceramic sanitary equipment in the washing compartments and restrooms.

From The Thaiger In a viral incident, a Thai transgender person chased a foreign tourist of unknown nationality around Pattaya Beach and threw ferocious punches and kicks at him. The incident came after the tourist reportedly refused to buy a companion service offered by the attacker and allegedly insulted her. The incident, captured in a video and shared via TikTok on ghostcars001, quickly spread across Thai social media platforms, sparking a fervent online discussion. In the widely viewed footage, the transgender woman is seen relentlessly pursuing the tourist along Pattaya Beach during the evening. In a fit of rage, she attempts to land punches and kicks on the tourist who, on his part, tries to evade her and protect himself from the blows. Ultimately, he manages to break free and flee the scene. Subsequent to the incident, local media descended on the scene, close to Soi 13/1’s mouth on Beach Road, on October 15 to gather eyewitness reports. According to a 56 year old bystander named Jaem, the incident unfolded on Friday, October 13. Jaem recounted observing a group of three tourists leisurely strolling along the beachfront. They were then approached by the transgender woman who was later identified in the video. She reportedly offered her companion services to the tourists. However, the tourists refused the proposition, leading to one of them allegedly dousing her with water and hurling insults at her. This derogatory act seemingly triggered a violent response. Pattaya’s police department reported on Sunday that they had apprehended the transgender woman seen in the video. Legal proceedings are currently ongoing. Simultaneously, efforts are being made to locate the assaulted tourist to gather his account of the incident. The transgender individual’s identity remains undisclosed to safeguard her privacy.