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No problem at the old Dusit Thani and would be surprised if there were any at new one.

From the Nation Karen state’s Border Guard Force (BGF) has asked Thai authorities for help in repatriating human trafficking victims in Myanmar. The BGF launched a “crackdown” on human trafficking after Thailand cut electricity and internet supplies to the cyber scam hubs under its jurisdiction in Myawaddy Township. BGF chief Maj General Saw Chit Thu on Thursday sent two identical request letters – one addressed to Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and the other to Col Natthakorn Ruentip, chief of the Ratchamanu Taskforce, responsible for guarding the border in Tak province. The letters claimed the BGF has identified, arrested and suppressed human traffickers and fraudsters who are illegally operating within “investment projects” in its region. Saw Chit Thu is a co-investor in Myawaddy’s Shwe Kokko new city, a US$15-billion project that has become a notorious hub of illegal gambling, human trafficking, extortion and cyber scam operations. The BGF leader said that from Saturday (February 15), a large number of people would be transported via the Second Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge from Myawaddy to the adjacent Thai town of Mae Sot. He added that the BGF would accelerate cooperation with the Myanmar and Thai governments and requested assistance from Thai authorities. The BGF is believed to be under pressure from its Myanmar junta allies and China after high-profile reports of Chinese celebrities being trafficked to Myawaddy scam centres earlier this year. A source revealed that the BGF has detained some 500 foreign nationals rounded up during its crackdown on call centre gangs in border areas. The BGF’s move came after Thailand cut electricity, internet and fuel supplies to five border areas in Myanmar on February 5 to combat call centre fraud. Areas affected by the shut-off include Myawaddy, Tachileik, and Phaya Thonsu townships. https://www.nationthailand.com/news/asean/40046279

Totally agree. Always try to keep small backpack under seat in front. JAL is good about this. If I can’t, passport and currency go in my pockets.

The only thing that can get complicated is timing. Although they normally close by 2am, they may stay open if customers linger on busy nights.

From Bangkok Post The Transport Ministry reported a 12.28% increase in profits for the Red and Purple lines after the 20-baht fare cap was introduced over a year ago. The fare cap was rolled out in October 2023 on the Red and Purple lines to get more commuters to switch to public transport. "Both lines reported a combined income of 49.91 million baht at the end of last year, an increase of 12.28% from the 44.45 million baht reported in the same period the previous year," said Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. The Red Line, run by the State Railway of Thailand, consists of two routes. The northern route connects Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Rangsit, while the southern route connects the central station to Taling Chan in Thon Buri district. The Purple Line, run by Mass Rapid Transit Authority, links Khlong Bang Phai station in Bang Phlat district with Tao Poon station in Bang Sue. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2961530/profits-on-red-purple-lines

Although I wouldn’t go there for purposes of finding freelancers, the bartenders and waiters at Midnight Bar (formerly known as Hotmale Beer Bar) on Patpong 2 are friendly and offable.

From Pattaya News Firefighters relax after knocking down fire in cannabis growing plant on Soi Welcome in Jomtien Thursday night. The Pattaya News reports that 200,000 baht worth of product went up in smoke, leaving locals dazed and unusually happy in its wake.

For those interested in the more upscale operations, this sounds like a good opportunity to expand your horizons. As I’m more attuned to the pedestrian locations, I can only comment on one of the shops listed above: 365 The River. Took the 40 minute ride out there on MRT a few times. Facilities are good as was the service, and pricing more in line with what you’d expect to find around Silom. My favorite way to find massage opportunities is to walk around Silom. It’s a target rich environment. Last night was walking toward Soi 4 from PP2. As I approached, all eight guys outside Olivia’s were glued to phones. Seconds later a guy in Adam massage yellow shirt (sitting at entrance to Soi 4) made eye contact, smiled and engaged me in conversation. He was fairly new and I agreed to one-hour oil (450 bht). After a very satisfying session, I asked him if he wanted to shower with me and the response came back, “sure.” Showers are down the hall and it first time at this shop I had pleasure of guy’s company. Adam is one of oldest shops in Silom and often taken for granted. The guys there tend to be a bit older (25+). The boss has a reputation for being very good to work for and has no retention problems. Guys tend to be relaxed and competent. My choice certainly was.

You’re right and the more I read about it the more of a conundrum it becomes. From The Star Thailand to seek arrest warrants for Myanmar Border Guard Forces leaders BANGKOK: Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) will seek arrest warrants for three leaders of Myanmar’s Border Guard Forces (BGF) on charges of human trafficking, Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong (pic) announced on Tuesday (Feb 11). Tawee stated that the case against Colonel Saw Chit Thu, Lieutenant Colonel Mote Thone, and Major Tin Win dates back several years when Thai nationals were detained in Myanmar. He clarified that this case is unrelated to recent crackdowns on call-centre gangs operating in Myanmar’s border towns. However, the DSI has now gathered sufficient evidence to request the Criminal Court to issue their arrest warrants. In addition to the three BGF leaders, several foreign nationals are suspected of involvement in the human trafficking operation, Tawee revealed, though he did not provide further details. The BGF are military units operating under Myanmar’s Regional Military Commands, comprising former insurgent groups. Tawee stressed that the arrest warrants are not linked to information provided by Liu Zhongyi, China’s Assistant Minister of Public Security, who recently visited Thailand. https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2025/02/11/thailand-to-seek-arrest-warrants-for-myanmar-border-guard-forces-leaders ======== From The New Humanitarian Myanmar migrants forced to join junta forces after deportation from Thailand RANONG, Thailand After being detained in southern Thailand, Aung Myo Kyaw, a migrant worker from Myanmar, was looking forward to regaining his freedom. It was the end of July 2024, and the 30-year-old construction worker had spent more than 20 days in the immigration detention centre in Ranong. Aung Myo Kyaw knew he would be deported to Kawthaung, a bustling trading port at the southern tip of Myanmar, but he assumed he would be released shortly afterwards. That was also what he and the roughly 120 other migrants from Myanmar – arrested for overstaying their visas – were told when they disembarked at Kawthaung after a 45-minute boat journey across the Pak Chan River. “[The Myanmar authorities] first kept us at an indoor stadium. They told us… we’d be sent home after signing some documents,” he told The New Humanitarian and Dawei Watch, a Myanmar news outlet, after he managed to escape the military in January 2025. “Instead, they took us to Battalion No. 262 (an infantry regiment) and kept us in the barracks. That’s when we found out we were going to be sent to the military.” The deportees weren’t given a choice. Nobody inquired about their wishes, and there was no chance of an escape. They were also told they would be killed and their families would suffer if they tried to join the opposing side. The young men simply became fodder for the Myanmar military, which is desperate for new recruits as it continues to suffer heavy losses against a loose coalition of forces composed of longstanding ethnic armed organisations and more recently formed opposition groups. Several armed groups fighting the junta have also been accused of forced conscription. In November 2024, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Min Aung Hlaing, the military leader of Myanmar, accusing him of crimes against the nation’s long-persecuted Rohingya Muslim minority. Thailand has come under criticism for seemingly aiding the junta, which has long been accused by the UN, research organisations, and civil society groups of committing widespread human rights abuses against unarmed civilians, including indiscriminate airstrikes and mass killings. Continues at https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/news-feature/2025/02/13/myanmar-migrants-forced-join-junta-forces-after-deportation-thailand

From The Thaiger Hotel room rates in Thailand increased by an average of 15% from 2023, as reported by SiteMinder, an e-commerce platform assisting hotels with direct and third-party bookings. This growth distinguishes Thailand as the only country with double-digit expansion. The Hotel Booking Trends report from SiteMinder, which analysed over 125 million reservations, indicates that the average daily rate (ADR) in Thailand rose to 5,377 baht from 4,648 baht in 2023. Rates peaked in December at 6,460 baht per room, an 11% increase from the previous year’s same period. SiteMinder attributed this growth to Thailand’s response to increased international travel demand. Thai hotels led Asia in foreign arrivals, with international guests constituting 77% of check-ins, surpassing the global average of 48%. Only Austria had a higher percentage of foreign check-ins. Additional insights from the report revealed that travellers booking Thai accommodations planned their stays further ahead, with an average lead time of 27 days, the longest in Asia and close to the 29-day booking window seen in 2019. The top 12 hotel booking sources for Thai properties in 2024, by total gross revenue via SiteMinder, were Booking.com, Agoda, direct bookings on hotel websites, Expedia Group, Trip.com, Hotelbeds, Tiket.com, Goibibo & MakeMyTrip, Traveloka, WebBeds, Klook, and TBOHolidays. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thailand-hotel-room-rates-soar-by-15-amid-travel-demand-surge

From The Thaiger A wave of in-flight thefts targeting unsuspecting passengers sparked urgent action from Thai police after reports revealed that criminals stole valuables worth 19 million baht on flights to Hong Kong last year. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong has now called on airlines to step up cabin inspections and warn passengers to safeguard their belongings. Several airlines have already tightened security measures in response to growing concerns. Hong Kong recorded 169 cases of in-flight theft in the first 10 months of 2024, with around 70% occurring on regional flights from Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and India. Passengers, often asleep in dimly lit cabins, have fallen victim to brazen thieves who target cash, jewellery, and luxury items. Despite the alarming trend, Sorawong remains confident it will not impact Thailand’s international tourism market. Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool noted that in-flight theft is not a new issue, with similar cases making headlines globally. She urged both passengers and airline staff to remain vigilant, adding that offenders should face legal consequences, including visa revocation or blacklisting. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, president of the Thai Travel Agents Association (ATTA), warned that such crimes damage the reputation of the perpetrator’s home country, leading to increased scrutiny of its travellers. However, he reassured that the rise in theft cases has not deterred tourists, who are instead exercising greater caution. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/sky-high-thieves-on-the-rise-minister-demands-tighter-flight-security

From Pattaya News Pattaya City is set to celebrate love and equality with a special Marriage Equality Celebration on February 14th at Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya. The event will feature a marriage registration ceremony for couples, along with various activities promoting equal love. The event will feature a talk on love and equality, a mini concert by PURE from The Voice All Stars and MUSE Miss Grand Chonburi 2025, and a Photo Bus by Sansiri, where couples can take pictures to remember their special day. Guests can also win a luxury yacht trip from Once Yachting and the first seven couples who register will get special t-shirts from Poriin and Zintears. There will also be fun activity booths for everyone to enjoy. The celebration will be held at the G Floor event stage of Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Couples and supporters of marriage equality are welcome to join the event and celebrate love together.

Begs the question: who are authorities protecting? ——————- From Sky News Australia Laos authorities reject Australian offer to help investigate methanol poisoning deaths The Albanese government has confirmed authorities in Laos have knocked back an Australian offer of assistance to investigate the methanol poisoning deaths of two Melbourne teenagers. The federal government will continue to press Laos to fully investigate the methanol poisoning deaths of Melbourne friends Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, after revelations the southeast Asian nation has knocked back Australian assistance. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles confirmed in parliament on Thursday that Australian Federal Police capabilities had been offered to authorities in Laos to support the probe into the deaths of the two 19-year-olds, but it had not been taken up. Holly and Bianca were on holiday in Laos last November when they fell critically ill after consuming methanol-laced drinks in the tourist town of Van Vieng. The pair, who drank the tainted alcohol while staying at the Nana Backpacker hostel, were rushed to two separate Thai hospitals and put on life support but died one day apart. Four other tourists were also killed in what is suspected to have been a mass poisoning incident.

From The Star Thailand has for years been the top travel destination for Chinese tourists during the Chinese New Year holidays. However, the tables appear to have turned this year, with Japan overtaking Thailand as the most preferred destination. According to a report on Nikkei Asia, Japan was the top cross-border destination for Chinese tourists during the eight-day Lunar New Year holiday through February 4, with reservations doubling from the previous year. This shift aligns with the pattern observed in 2024 when Japan also surpassed Thailand in terms of total international arrivals. According to data from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, Japan recorded 36.87 million international arrivals, compared to 35.55 million in Thailand. The increase in Chinese visitors to Japan has been a key driver of Japan’s tourism growth. Data from the online travel agency Trip.com Group indicates that international travel from China rose by 30 per cent year-on-year during the arrival of the Year of the Snake. Japan emerged as the top destination for Chinese tourists, consistent with findings from Dongcheng Travel, which ranked Japan ahead of Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand as the most popular destination for Chinese travellers. Lower airfares have also contributed to a surge in outbound travel among Chinese tourists. According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, an average of 1,888 international passenger flights flew out of the mainland during the Chinese New Year holidays, marking a 24.6 per cent surge compared to the previous year. https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2025/02/13/thailand-loses-its-crown-as-top-spot-for-chinese-new-year-to-japan

From The Nation The Thai and Myanmar governments are working together to repatriate 261 Thai nationals who had been deceived into work for call centre scamming gangs in Myanmar’s border towns, Deputy PM and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said on Wednesday. He said that about 7,000 more victims in Myanmar will be the next to be repatriated, adding that the Thai government would coordinate with their home countries to arrange direct transport so they do not find themselves stuck in Tak province after release. Phumtham said the government has contacted embassies of countries in Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Asia, including Japan, the Philippines and Indonesia regarding the repatriation of their citizens held in Myanmar. He added that after release, these victims will be separated by nationality and then immediately transported to their homelands on chartered flights without having to stay in Thailand. Phumtham added that he received a report that Myanmar’s Border Guard Force (BGF) had resolved to crack down on Chinese gangs operating in Myawaddy township, which are estimated to involve around 10,000 individuals. The report said BGF commanders met on Wednesday in a session chaired by leader Col Saw Chit Thu and resolved to use Thailand as a passageway to extradite these gang members back to China. Over a period of 20 days, the BGF planned to send 500 persons per day to Thailand via the 2nd Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Tak’s Mae Sot district, pending approval from the Thai government. The crackdown operation would start from Thursday (February 13), in a bid to demonstrate BGF’s commitment to tackling call centre scamming gangs, which have become a growing international security concern. BGF’s move came after Thailand cut electricity, internet and fuel supplies to five border areas in Myanmar to combat call centre fraud last Wednesday. Areas affected by the shut-off include Tachileik, Myawaddy and Phaya Thonsu townships. https://www.nationthailand.com/news/asean/40046229

From Yahoo Finance Some U.S. Embassy websites have posted notices warning beneficiaries their payments may have been suspended. The alert targeted those whose official address on record is outside the U.S. Here’s exactly who is affected, and if that’s you, what you can do about it. Over 700,000 of those who receive Social Security benefits live abroad. A number of them may be surprised to find they haven’t received a payment in February, prompting embassy websites to put up notices explaining why. It’s to do with confirming one’s eligibility to receive payments. Every one or two years, depending on where they live and the exact form that needs to be filled out, those who live abroad and collect Social Security need to submit a Foreign Enforcement Questionnaire (FEQ), which is a document used to update or confirm certain pieces of information. This includes your name (or the representative payee's name), address, Social Security number and other details. Further detail can be found on the Social Security Administration website. Forms are sent out in the middle of the year and must be returned by the due date to ensure beneficiaries continue receiving payments on time. If not, their benefits might be suspended. Remember, this applies to those whose address on record is outside the U.S. Read more: Home prices in America could fly through the roof in 2025 — here’s the big reason why and how to take full advantage (with as little as $10) What you can do There are several steps you can take if your Social Security payments have been suspended. First, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and mention your situation, and someone there should be able to help. You may be told to contact the local Federal Benefits Unit (which provides services to the Social Security Administration) to give them the needed information. Once everything is processed, you could start receiving a paycheck again in a matter of days. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/americans-social-security-checks-may-124700094.html

According to the Thai Meteorological Dept., summer will be two weeks late in arriving this year. “The hottest days, with peak temperatures of 35-36°C, are expected from late March to mid-April. This is close to the seasonal average but lower than last year’s peak of 37.5°C., they predict. But at the moment in Bangkok, it’s 35.9 degrees.

From Tourism Authority of Thailand Bangkok, 12 February 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) staged the Amazing Thailand Out There event yesterday in Bangkok, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to promote Thailand as a premier LGBTQ+ travel destination. Marriott Thailand supported the initiative, highlighting the country’s world-class hospitality, rich culture, and unwavering commitment to inclusivity. Arriving at a pivotal moment following the enactment of Thailand’s Equal Marriage Act in January 2025, the event further cemented Thailand’s reputation as a global leader in LGBTQ+ rights. With the LGBTQ+ travel market projected to generate US$1.5 billion in spending by 2025 and Thailand ranked fifth globally in tourism impact—after the USA, UK, France, and Italy—TAT strategically engaged this thriving sector. Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, emphasised the event’s significance: “This initiative is shaped by insights from the Amazing Thailand LGBTQ+ Focus Group sessions held late last year in Phuket, Bangkok, and Ko Samui. These discussions helped us refine our strategies to better serve LGBTQ+ travellers while strengthening opportunities for Thai tourism businesses.” Yesterday’s programme featured three key events: a travel trade meet, an influencer showcase, and a cultural night celebrating Thailand’s dynamic LGBTQ+ community. The Thailand Out There: Amazing Thailand LGBTQ+ Travel Trade Meet 2025 connected international buyers with 20 Thai tourism suppliers, fostering business networking and industry insights. The session included a welcome address by TAT and a presentation by Marriott Thailand. Among the attendees were 18 travel agents specialised in the LGBTQ+ segment from the USA, Canada, and Brazil, who embarked on a week-long familiarisation trip across Thailand, with some extending their stay to explore further. Presiding over the session, Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, the Americas, Middle East, and Africa, stated: “The LGBTQ+ travel market holds tremendous potential, with Thailand consistently ranking among the world’s top destinations for this community. Through this event, we aim to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and position Thailand as the preferred destination for LGBTQ+ travellers.” Continues at https://www.tatnews.org/2025/02/thailand-elevates-lgbtq-tourism-with-amazing-thailand-out-there-series/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=thailand-elevates-lgbtq-tourism-with-amazing-thailand-out-there-series

From Pattaya News Pattaya City is stepping up beach security by adding two new tourist safety centers and extending patrol hours to keep visitors safe. Deputy Mayor of Pattaya Mr. Wuttisak Ruemkijakarn recently chaired a meeting to discuss security measures for tourists and regulate Pattaya Beach. He said that Pattaya Beach has become a popular destination for tourists. However, some people have used the beach as an overnight resting place instead of renting normalaccommodation, which negatively impacts the city’s image. Mr. Wuttisak said it is important to keep people safe and make sure the beach is used properly. To do this, the city has set up security points at: Soi 6 Yodsak, overseen by Pattaya Police In front of Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya, managed by the Tourist Police Mr. Wuttisak also proposed increasing the number of security centers from two to four. The meeting agreed to add new security points in high-risk areas, including in front of Mae Sri Ruen Restaurant by Central Mall and near the South Pattaya Pier. These locations will be overseen by Pattaya City’s municipal officers in collaboration with special task forces and civil defense volunteers. Additionally, patrol hours will be extended from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM to improve safety for both residents and tourists. Regular security roll-call assemblies will take place every Friday and Saturday at midnight. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/02/11/pattaya-steps-up-beach-security-with-new-daily-overnight-patrols-and-new-safety-centers/

From Bangkok Post Six more students were arrested on Tuesday in connection with an assault on another Bangkok University student who suffered painful injuries after having hot soup poured on him. The two main perpetrators of the assault, which was captured in a video that has since gone viral, were arrested on Sunday by Khlong Luang district police in Pathum Thani. Rasipa “Preem” Satchawan, 22, and Chakatpol “Oshi” Wachirawan, 19, face charges of extortion and assault causing physical and psychological harm. The duo reportedly told their victim that if he wanted them to stop hurting him, he should give them money. The latest group — three men and three women — have been arrested on charges of extortion. All eight suspects have been remanded at the Thanyaburi Provincial Court. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2959010/more-arrests-made-in-soup-attack?utm_campaign=Article&utm_source=article_suggestion_thailand&utm_medium=reccommended&utm_content=suggestion-article

From Khaosod English BANGKOK — The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) targets LGBTQ travelers as spending surges 38% to over 73,000 baht per trip. The number of first-time visitors to Thailand has increased significantly by 19.90 percent. Following the passage of the Marriage Equality Act, more and more LGBTQ travelers have been asking TAT if Thailand is ready to be a top LGBTQ destination. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, the TAT’s deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas, shared that one of the most common questions from European travelers is whether Thailand has dedicated staff to cater to the LGBTQ community, as many visitors want to meet like-minded people. In response, the TAT has assured that Thailand offers welcoming destinations for all travelers, including LGBTQ tourists, same-sex couples and honeymooners. The country’s hospitality industry is known for its inclusivity and high standards of service. A survey of foreign tourists in the romantic tourism category which includes LGBTQ travelers found that spending per trip from January to December 2024 averaged 73,535 baht per person, up 37.72 percent from the same period in 2023. The average daily spend per traveler increased by 42.39 percent to 6,722 baht. TAT’s findings show that romantic tourism travelers, including honeymooners and LGBTQ tourists, seek luxury and exclusivity. They prefer upscale hotels and premium travel experiences, resulting in higher spending than the average tourist. Continues at https://www.khaosodenglish.com/tourism/2025/02/10/first-time-lgbtq-visitors-to-thailand-surge-with-high-spending/

The official trailer for Jurassic World Rebirth has been released. Among the landscapes featured are Railay Bay and Toh Luang Cave in Krabi, Ao Phang Nga National Park, and Ko Kradan in Trang.

From Bangkok Post A Moscow-bound Boeing 777-300ER Aeroflot Airlines plane with 346 people onboard made an emergency landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Monday night following a landing gear problem. The Moscow-bound flight SU277 departed Phuket Airport at 3.20pm on Monday and circled above the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand for five hours before seeking an emergency landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport. There were reports that after takeoff, the nose gear of the plane retracted but its cover failed to close. The pilots then circled the plane over the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand to burn off fuel before landing the plane safely at Suvarnabhumi Airport. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2958651/aeroflot-plane-makes-emergency-landing-at-suvarnabhumi

From Bangkok Post Bangkok University has expelled two students who were seen assaulting a younger student in a video clip that went viral on social media last week. The clip, which showed the two students pouring hot soup on another student at a noodle shop in Pathum Thani's Khlong Luang district, sparked a protest by about a hundred people near Bangkok University's Rangsit campus on Saturday evening. They demanded that the students responsible apologise to the victim and urged the university to take urgent action to address the incident, which took place on Thursday. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2958250/university-expels-duo-over-soup-attack#google_vignette

For a brief period of three hours in early afternoon they standout before those sexy young men begin assembling the stalls. Know that I’m repeating myself, but it’s one of the best shows in town. They stretch, pull, push and lift, using use every conceivable muscle. And the aren’t adverse to an appreciative audience because they know they’re performers.