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@stevenkesslar does his research the old fashion way. Will take that any day over artificial intelligence. The problem with OxyContin was its pain killing effect. It was the unscrupulous practices of Purdue Pharma. OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma pleads guilty to federal criminal charges Purdue Pharma could pay up to $8 billion in the settlement related to the opioid crisis. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/oxycontin-drugmaker-purdue-pharma-pleads-guilty-federal-criminal-charges-n1244155

Backpackers tend to be very young and looking to drink with one another. And they favor low cost hostels.

Phetboy has posted new T&B

From Pattaya Mail Khao Chi Chan, home to the world’s largest carved Buddha image, is a must-visit destination for travelers with just one day to explore. Start your morning at Khao Chi Chan, where the awe-inspiring Buddha image is etched onto a limestone cliff. Standing at an impressive 109 meters tall, this iconic landmark offers visitors a tranquil atmosphere to walk around, take photographs, and learn about its historical significance. The serene surroundings of Khao Chi Chan make it a perfect place for reflection and relaxation, leaving tourists with unforgettable memories of this remarkable site in Chonburi. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or a photography lover, a day at Khao Chi Chan promises a fulfilling experience. Located in Sattahip, just a 30-minute drive from Pattaya City, Khao Chi Chan is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the area. Renowned for housing the world’s largest carved Buddha image, it is an ideal spot for a one-day trip. The highlight of Khao Chi Chan is the majestic Buddha image etched onto a limestone cliff, standing at an impressive 109 meters tall and 70 meters wide. The golden outline glimmers under sunlight, creating a breathtaking sight. This iconic landmark was created in 1996 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s reign, blending natural beauty with cultural significance. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll around the site, take stunning photographs, or simply relax in the serene environment. Surrounded by lush greenery and a well-maintained park, it’s a perfect escape from the bustling streets of Pattaya.

It’s the way diplomats say only drink Beer Lao in Laos.

Know what you mean. Nevada tries to sell the Vegas strip as family friendly, too. 🙂

Wasn’t Walking Street intended to be flowery and over the top by its creators?

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It’s truly heartening to hear and read what a turnabout this trip was for you. There’s a lesson here for us all: Bangkok can restore our faith in ourselves and others if we just give it another chance.

From Pattaya News On November 22nd, 2024, Dr. Kirati Kitmanawat, the CEO of Airports of Thailand (AOT), reported a net profit of 19.18 billion baht for FY2024 (Oct 2023 – Sept 2024), reflecting a strong recovery in the aviation sector. Revenue rose by 40% to 67.83 billion baht, with aviation-related income increasing to 31 billion baht and non-aviation revenue reaching 36.12 billion baht. This growth was attributed to a significant rebound in international travel, reflecting a 34.82% rise in international passengers and a 29.63% increase in international flights. Passenger traffic at AOT’s six airports—Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai—hit 119.29 million, a 19% increase from the previous year. Domestic passengers showed a modest growth of 1.01%. Looking ahead, FY2025 projections estimate a rise to 129.97 million passengers, just shy of pre-pandemic figures. This number includes domestic flights. Beginning December 1st, AOT will fully implement a biometric facial recognition system across six major airports. This technology, which requires passenger consent, will streamline check-ins, security checks, and boarding without the need for physical passports or boarding passes. Travelers will enjoy faster, more efficient service while maintaining high-security standards. TPN media notes that although fully implemented it may not be used for all flights or passengers and as noted if a passenger is uncomfortable with biometrics can utilize other options.

From Pattaya Mail Pattaya’s Walking Street lights up the night, offering vibrant entertainment and a taste of Thai culture, making it a must-visit for travelers. Pattaya’s iconic Walking Street, a lively hub of nightlife and entertainment, attracts thousands of visitors nightly, making it one of the city’s most vibrant destinations. Tourists, especially international visitors, often prioritize experiencing this street after sunset, drawn by its energetic atmosphere and diverse offerings. Walking Street Pattaya is lined with colorful lights, lively pubs, bars, and enticing street food stalls, creating a bustling scene that keeps the area alive through the night. Visitors can enjoy unique Thai-style performances, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Walking Streets in Thailand go beyond entertainment. They serve as cultural and economic hubs, showcasing local traditions, art, cuisine, and crafts. These streets offer a glimpse into the Thai way of life while boosting community-driven tourism. From Chiang Mai’s Wua Lai Walking Street to Hua Hin’s Night Market, each destination provides a unique experience. The Origins of Thailand’s Walking Streets The concept of Walking Streets in Thailand began in 1997 under Dr. Pichit Rattakul, then Governor of Bangkok. The first was Silom Walking Street, designed to align urban spaces with community life. It quickly became popular for its blend of art, food, souvenirs, and entertainment. By 2001, the success of Silom inspired the government to expand the initiative to major cities across the country. Walking Streets flourished, becoming cultural landmarks and important tourism drivers. Popular examples include Chiang Mai’s Tha Phae Gate Walking Street, Chiang Rai Walking Street, and Udon Thani’s Khon Kaen Walking Street. Today, Walking Streets are celebrated for their role in connecting tourism with local culture, offering vibrant experiences that highlight Thailand’s traditions and community spirit. Pattaya’s Walking Street, in particular, stands out as a national treasure, blending tradition and nightlife in a way that captivates visitors from around the globe. https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/the-origins-and-allure-of-thailands-famous-walking-streets-from-bangkok-to-chiang-mai-down-to-pattaya-city-480991

They remain with the shop for reason you cite but also because they like guys they are working with. But they don’t forget being treated as inferiors, especially by fellow Asians from the northeast who have a sense of entitlement.

No more than illegal Latinos are taking jobs away from Americans. The sad fact is that everyone knows this but still drink the Kool Aid. Because I know a lot of guys who do massage, I hear many tales out of school. Here’s one from earlier this week. A young guy from Taiwan comes into a shop for a two-hour massage. As the session is winding down, he says to guy: “I’ll give 1;000 baht if I can fuck you.” Guy declines because he does not do anal. Customer replies, “then you’re not getting anything.” Then customer has audacity to complain to manager that he had been disrespected!

Phoenix Massage has new promotion of three (3) sessions for 1,000 baht good for Nov. 23-25 with no expiration date. The sessions can be shared, according to post.

Some shops on Soi 6 operate on rotation basis and this is among them. Natural Massage (first shop on right as you enter from Silom) always allows you to choose boy of your choice.

From VN Express The Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro line is expected to enter operation on Dec. 22 as the first in Ho Chi Minh City, with ticket prices starting from VND6,000 (24 U.S. cents) per ride. The HCMC Management Authority for Urban Railways, the project's main investor, on Thursday said the project has been 100% completed and is now waiting for certain procedures to be completed, before entering commercial operation. Ticket prices for the metro would vary based on the types of ticket, ranging from VND6,000-20,000 for single rides. Monthly passes would cost VND300,000, with students getting a 50% discount. There will also be day passes and three-day passes, costing VND40,000 and VND90,000, respectively. Certain passengers, such as the disabled and the elderly, will be able to ride the metro for free. The Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien metro line, spanning around 20 km with 11 elevated stations and three underground ones, began construction in 2012. Its total investment cost is at over VND43.7 trillion ($1.72 billion).

From Pattaya Mail Chonburi Immigration, in collaboration with the Labor Department of Chonburi and the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), conducted a series of raids targeting illegal foreign workers who were violating immigration laws and taking jobs away from Thai nationals in Pattaya on November 21. The operation, aimed at reinforcing immigration enforcement and ensuring public safety during the high tourist season, was carried out at two separate locations in the city. The first raid focused on a hotel on South Pattaya Road, where authorities had gathered intelligence about the illegal housing of foreign workers. Upon searching over 50 rooms, officers discovered more than 100 foreign nationals, primarily from India and Myanmar, hiding in bathrooms and on balconies. Several individuals attempted to flee but were apprehended, including a couple from Myanmar who admitted to entering Thailand illegally. Authorities also found that 14 workers, mostly from Myanmar, Cambodia, and India, were residing in the country without proper documentation or had failed to report their residence, leading to their detention. The second raid targeted foreign workers taking jobs typically held by Thai citizens. Two Myanmar nationals were arrested for working as car washers at a gas station in South Pattaya without proper work permits. In a subsequent search at the Wat Chaimongkol Market, officers detained a Lao woman and a man of unclear nationality who was operating a motorcycle taxi without authorization. Colonel Napatpong Kositsuriyamanee, the Superintendent of Chonburi Immigration, emphasized that this crackdown is part of a proactive strategy to identify and apprehend foreign nationals involved in illegal activities, especially during the peak tourist season. He reiterated that these operations are intended to protect both local employment and the safety of tourists, and that further raids would be conducted regularly to ensure compliance with immigration and labor laws.

While passing by BT House massage I noticed it has undergone facelift. Formerly there was just sign and glass front was covered so you couldn’t see inside shop front.

Trump finds himself in the position to solidify his strong man image by orchestrating the end of Russia’s war in Ukraine soon after taking office. It echoes the opportunity that Reagan had when he succeeded Carter and negotiated the quick return of US hostages from Iran. Biden’s reluctance early on to give Ukraine tanks and planes at a moment when it could have crippled the Invasion set up this scenario. He hesitated and dithered and slowly but surely Russia gained the momentum. China, Iran and North Korea seized the opportunity to come to Russia’s side, weakening the efforts of the US and its allies over time. If there’s a lesson here is you don’t go to war piecemeal. And make no mistake, this is a war of attrition. America and its allies may not have troops on the ground but their reputations are at stake. Billons spent with nothing to show for it as Russia gets to keep what it has gained. Trump is despicable but he understands the use of power and that translates to fear. No one or their dog was afraid of Joe.

Ends today but would not be shocked if new ones are periodically offered.

I report on crime and mishaps in Pattaya but I’m always on lookout for a feel good story. I was lucky to find one today thanks to Bangkok Post. Two 14-year-old boys received public praise for returning a wallet containing cash and identification documents to police after finding it in an ice bucket outside a shopping mall in Pattaya on Thursday night. Noppadol Phuphiphat and Phattraraphol Ngao-ngam, both in Matthayom 2 (Grade 7) at Bannernplubwan and Watsuttawas schools respectively, were walking with a friend's older brother when they discovered the wallet outside CentralFestival Pattaya Beach in Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri. The two teens immediately took it to Pattaya City police station at 11pm, expressing concern for the owner's potential distress. Pol Capt Anan Mahakitassawakul, deputy investigation chief at the station, said the wallet contained 3,640 baht and 71 yuan, along with identification documents belonging to a Chinese tourist. The police recorded the incident and are waiting for the owner to claim the items. Witnesses at the station praised the boys for their honesty. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2906821/boys-praised-for-returning-wallet-found-in-pattaya

Pensioners worry about overseas transmitted income From Pattaya Mail Having talked to many retired expats over the past year or so, I know that their biggest worry is whether they need to obtain a tax identification number and complete a tax form about income remitted to Thailand from abroad in the calendar year 2024. The very prospect of having to deal with a second revenue department – after the first one in their home country – is decidedly not a welcome thought for those who spend 180 days or more here in a calendar year. There are certainly retirees here who won’t need to pay any Thai personal income tax in 2025. Those who have not transmitted any cash to Thailand in 2024 are clearly free as are those who can prove they have sent only “old” money, that is savings which were in their home country bank accounts not later than December 31 2023. Some foreign inheritances paid in 2024 might be another exempt category as long as the estate has been assessed by the home country revenue department. Many expats are confused by so-called double taxation treaties and understandably so. There are over 60 such agreements but they differ enormously in scope and detail. The fact of their existence does not automatically mean a person cannot be taxed in two different jurisdictions. I know that some expats have been to their local Thai Revenue Department (TRD) and apparently been told no need to register if they are living on pensions already taxed. But I would caution that many TRD officers don’t have fluency foreign languages which could lead to confusion or misunderstanding. The main intention of the Thai government is to broaden the tax base with Thai or foreign “residents” but I am sure the main targets are “big fish” such as those dealing in cryptocurrency, untaxed offshore bank accounts and foreign businesses which have escaped tax hitherto. I doubt very much that TRD will target foreign retirees living on already-taxed foreign pensions. Now that Thailand is a member of the international Common Reporting Standard, it will be much easier to identify “big fish” in international banking procedures. So should the typical retiree expat obtain a tax identification number and fill in a tax form relating to overseas income early next year? If you don’t, I doubt very much that there will be immediate consequences unless you are bringing in large, untaxed sums. On the other hand, you could be asked in later years to justify your self-exemption. There are many unknowns and it could take years for blurry issues to be resolved. For example, whether use of foreign credit cards in Thailand is remitted income or not is still much debated. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-tax-lawyer-pensioners-worries-and-overseas-transmitted-income-480825

Visited the moveable feast otherwise known as Phoenix Masssage at its new yet old home on Inthamara 25 last evening. Found at least a dozen guys (most appeared from Laos and Myanmar) gathered around pool table or lounging around in the reception area. The manager recognized me from my visit to Lat Phrao location. He asked me if I had made booking and I replied no and showed him photo of guy I had in mind from his recent LINE feed. He called out the guy’s name who came over, beamed a smile in my direction as boss told him what room to use. He turned out to be Lao and 23. Manager said the fee was 199 baht because promotion rate was still in effect and then showed me card with other price information. The normal one-hour rate of 700 is steepest in Saphan Kwai area, and about 300 more than the nearby KK and Home Spa. The 1200 tip, however, is on par with what I usually end up giving to masseurs who provide satisfactory service. We were soon on way to fourth floor and a fairly spacious room with massage table, AC and shower. The shower tiles were in good condition and room was clean. My guy stripped down immediately and invited me to join him for shower. He proceeded to thoroughly wash my private parts in almost a ritualistic manner that left little doubt that they’d play a role in rites that were to follow. Btw, shower is generous size. Although he had no English we managed quite nicely to find our way through the hour. As was the case in my initial visit at Lat Phrao, this is indeed a “full service” shop where customer satisfaction rates high. Guess you might say it as close as you’re likely to find to sure thing. After another washing after, I left with bottle of water and happy memories. I recognized the manager of one of the larger SK shops talking with shop manager as I left. Would I make a repeat visit? Yes. This shop differs from most of the competition because it doesn’t rely on free agents who circulate through multiple shops. If it can keep its cadre and service level high, it may survive this competitive environment. Only time will tell.

Fourth tourist dies of suspected methanol poisoning From BBC Australian teen Bianca Jones has become the fourth tourist to have died in a suspected mass poisoning in Laos. The 19-year-old's family confirmed her death to the media on Thursday. Hours earlier, the US State Department told the media that an American man died in the tourist town of Vang Vieng. Two Danish women, aged 19 and 20, also died last week in Laos, Danish authorities confirmed, declining to share more due to confidentiality concerns. The deaths remain under police investigation, but news reports and testimonies online from other tourists suggest they may have consumed drinks laced with methanol, a deadly substance often found in bootleg alcohol. Jones's friend Holly Bowles is in hospital on life support, while a British woman is also reportedly in hospital. New Zealand's foreign ministry told local media on Thursday that one of its citizens was also unwell from suspected methanol poisoning. It is unclear how many more people have fallen ill. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the department of foreign affairs had confirmed Jones's death. "Our first thoughts in this moment are with her family and friends who are grieving a terrible and cruel loss," Albanese said on Thursday afternoon. "This is every parent's very worst fear and a nightmare that no one should have to endure." He said he hoped Ms Bowles, who is currently at Bangkok Hospital, would recover well. The US State Department said it was "closely monitoring" the situation with regards to the American victim, adding that it was up to local authorities to determine the cause of death. Australian, New Zealand and UK authorities have each warned their citizens to be careful of methanol poisoning when consuming alcohol in Laos.

From Bangkok Post National police chief Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet has ordered an investigation into allegations that a lecturer at the Police Cadet Academy and a police interrogator made a cadet intoxicated and molested him at the academy. Pol Gen Kitrat said on Wednesday that he instructed the commander of the academy that any wrongdoer would face strict disciplinary action and potential misconduct penalties. He also advised the affected cadet to file an official complaint. There were reports that the lecturer was a police major who taught English and law at the academy in Samphran district of Nakhon Pathom. The cadet was reportedly lured to a locker room near the rugby field last Saturday night. There, the lecturer and another officer allegedly had the cadet drink three bottles of liquor and two additional bottles of beer while attempting to masturbate him. There were also reports that the cadet may not be the only victim of the accused officers, who are former classmates at the academy. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2905690/police-chief-orders-probe-into-alleged-molestation-by-lecturer