reader

JJ has been a regular at 15M Massage near Saphan Kwai BTS station. He is a very friendly and personable masseur with an easy smile and is conversational in English. His muscular, compact body is a plus.

NOTE -- Begs the questions whether the Khlong Toei slum is the site authorities have in mind. From The Thaiger The Transport Ministry has approved a proposal for Bangkok Port to host an integrated entertainment complex. Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit referenced an instruction from his deputy, Manaporn Charoensri, to establish a committee to assess the feasibility of developing such complexes at locations like ports. Several potential sites are under consideration. Suriya highlighted the Khlong Toei area of Bangkok Port as a prime candidate due to its ample land, scenic river views, and potential transformation into a yacht marina. As a deputy prime minister, he noted Bangkok’s suitability for this development. He mentioned that the decision for a complex in the eastern region, possibly in Laem Chabang or Pattaya, which may include a casino, rests with a national committee. The Transport Ministry does not have the authority to determine the location. Sangsit Piriyarangsan, an academic focused on social issues related to gambling, voiced concerns about the government’s ability to manage additional problems from legal gambling, given the existing issues with illegal gambling operations. As a former senator and author of The Gambling Demon of Bangkok, Sangsit warned that legalising gambling could exacerbate problems and increase governmental burdens. https://thethaiger.com/news/bangkok/transport-ministry-bangkok-port-to-host-entertainment-complex

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon All – yes all – foreigners hoping to enter Thailand by air, land or sea from the beginning of May will need to complete a digital “landing card” form in advance of making their journey. The online form, known as TM6, is not yet available. It will be free. According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the only exceptions will be those travelling on a Thai passport. What information will the TM6 require? You will need the usual biographical details on your passport, together with a local telephone number and your initial Thai address. This information used to be collected on the manual TM6 form which was once handed out to tired passengers just before arrival. That pointless paper system was suspended in stages – first for air arrivals and then for land and sea – and is not currently in use. Immigration staff often could not read the scribbled details anyway written in haste after a long flight. The paper on-arrival TM6, in practice a waste of time as the information was not entered into the immigration system, is being replaced by an online version to be submitted prior to your journey to Thailand. Does it matter whether I am visa-exempt for 60 days or have a visa? No. The new rule applies to all non-Thais whether they are visa-exempt, visa on arrival, non-immigrant visa holders, Elite, Destination Thailand Visa, Long Term Residence etc etc. All must fill in the online TM6 form separately from any other embassy or immigration bureaucracy. Also irrelevant is whether or not you have a re-entry permit. None of it makes any difference. Tourists from 93 countries who currently obtain 60 days on arrival without any forms will need to complete the TM6 online. But nothing more. So the online TM6 isn’t a visa? It’s not a visa but an entry requirement irrespective of visa status. It is obvious that the key information is for the foreigners to give his or her address in Thailand. In theory, this information is available on a manual TM30 form submitted in paper form soon after arrival. But many tourists and expats do not regularly update their TM30, or have never heard of it, leading to enormous gaps in the immigration data base. The assumption is that the TM30 will disappear and replaced by the online TM6. If foreigners change their address whilst in Thailand, they will presumably be able to update the TM6 on their mobile device. Why all this fuss about knowing your address in Thailand? There are lots of reasons: to help track down criminals and unsavory characters, to streamline entry procedures, to reduce manual form filling etc. Embassies for their part are keen that immigration offices know the address of foreigners in Thailand in case of an emergency, eg a relative has died. If foreigners fail to update their Thai address details, and are found out, there will presumably be penalties but that’s another wait and see issue. Is TM6 different from Entry Travel Authorization? ETA, a forthcoming pre arrival form for visa exempt categories, has been postponed. They and all other foreigners must use the TM6. Also postponed is the 300 baht entry tax which has been debated for eight years and is still not in operation and won’t be any time soon. TM6 is free. It should be noted that most countries now have some kind of computerized bureaucracy which details the foreigner and his or her local address shortly before arrival. Will there be more details published by the government? Yes there are ambiguities, some highlighted in the above paragraphs. The final details hopefully will be announced next month after a briefing meeting for stakeholders on January 31. The immigration bureau has already reviewed the upcoming online system. Eventually the government hopes to integrate the TM6 bureaucracy with other immigration screening procedures. Eventually! https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/huge-change-on-may-1-2025-for-foreigners-visiting-thailand-488282

From Bangkok Post An automatic check-in system at Don Mueang airport developed a problem early Saturday morning, resulting in long queues and flight delays. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) reported that the system started to resume at around 9.45am. Airport staff were assigned to assist passengers. Travellers scheduled to fly were advised to allow at least three hours for check-in or to check in online in advance if they did not have luggage. Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT) president Kirati Kijmanawat said that the SITA Passenger Service System (SITA PSS) for the Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS) experienced a technical issue during an update at about 1am, affecting check-ins and causing flight delays. Technicians were racing against time to solve it. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2947317/don-mueang-airports-automatic-check-in-system-malfunctions-causing-flight-delays

From Pattaya News Suspects disclose what tourists they target At 6:00 PM on January 23rd, Pol. Col. Navin Theerawit, Superintendent of Pattaya Police Station, held a press conference to announce the arrest of two transgender individuals who were reportedly involved in two recent theft cases against Indian and Turkish tourists. The police arrested Kachaphaphak or “Sara,” 42, under an arrest warrant issued by the Pattaya Provincial Court on January 22nd, 2025. The suspect was charged with theft at night. On January 19th, at approximately 11:25 PM, Kachaphaphak allegedly stole a gold necklace from an Indian tourist near Pattaya Beach, in front of the Hard Rock Hotel. The police also arrested Samai, 39, under an arrest warrant issued by the Pattaya Provincial on January 23rd, 2025. The suspect was charged with theft at night using a vehicle to facilitate the crime, transport stolen property, and evade capture. On January 22nd, at around 4:30 AM, Samai allegedly pickpocketed a Turkish tourist on Pattaya Second Road, opposite a hotel on Soi 8. During questioning, both suspects reportedly admitted to the crimes. They stated that after stealing valuables, they would sell them and use the money to visit male host bars. Once the money ran out, they would commit theft again, targeting tourists who walked alone late at night, appeared drunk, and wore necklaces or carried wallets while walking along the beach or in less crowded areas. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/01/24/pattaya-police-arrest-two-transgender-suspects-for-stealing-from-foreign-tourists/

When undecided, trusting your instincts is better way to go.

From Pattaya Mail Pattaya continues to solidify its position as one of Thailand’s premier tourist destinations, with 2024 bringing unprecedented growth in both visitor numbers and revenue. At a recent meeting at Ruenthai Restaurant, key figures from the tourism and business sectors convened to discuss the remarkable performance of the region. Chaiwat Tamthai, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Pattaya Office, presented an overview of Chonburi’s tourism achievements. Between January and November 2024, the province welcomed 24.78 million tourists, a significant 17.92% increase compared to 2023. This surge contributed to a total revenue of 264.3 billion baht, marking a 26.54% rise from the previous year’s 208.8 billion baht. International tourism played a vital role in this success, with 10.45 million foreign visitors contributing 168.19 billion baht to the local economy. Top contributors included tourists from China, Malaysia, Russia, South Korea, and India. Domestic tourism also flourished, with 14.33 million Thai tourists generating 96.1 billion baht, a 23.45% increase from 2023. The momentum has carried into 2025, with impressive figures recorded in the first week of the year. From January 1 to 5, 2025, Pattaya welcomed 505,411 tourists, reaffirming its appeal among international visitors. The top five countries sending tourists to Pattaya were: China: 69,548 visitors Malaysia: 57,127 visitors Russia: 46,752 visitors South Korea: 28,160 visitors India: 26,635 visitors =============== From The Nation 5,400 troops to have liberty in Pattaya Chonburi authorities are preparing for the arrival of 5,400 US Navy personnel who will stay in Pattaya from January 27-31 on furlough from a military training exercise. The troops will arrive on four US Navy ships, which will dock in areas overseen by Sattahip and Laem Chabang police stations. Pol Lt General Yingyos Thepchamnong, Commissioner of Region 2 Police on Thursday met with Luu Pham, Assistant Attaché (Force Protection Detachment) of the US Embassy in Thailand to discuss safety and traffic management plans in the popular resort town in the eastern province. https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40045505

From Bangkok Post Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered free public transport in Bangkok for one week, starting Saturday, in response to worsening air pollution as dust levels have surged across all districts of the capital. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, also a deputy prime minister, said on Friday that the prime minister wanted the ministry and concerned agencies to address the high levels of particulate matter 2.5 micrometres and smaller (PM2.5) in Bangkok. From Jan 25 to 31, people will be given free services on buses and electric trains, said Mr Suriya. He has coordinated with the operators of Bangkok Transit System Plc (BTS) and Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company (BEM) to provide free rides for electric train passengers. The Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) has also agreed to offer free bus services for the entire week. Bangkok on Friday was ranked as the fourth worst city in the world for air quality, according to the latest data from Swiss-based IQAir. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2946785/pm-orders-week-of-free-public-transport-to-combat-pm2-5

+1

Not unusual for long-paralyzed to develop strong upper body strength to compensate for loss of leg control.

It's doing fantastic, Moses.

From Pattaya News A 74-year-old British man suffering from paralysis fell to his death from a fourth-floor condo in Pattaya. The tragic incident was reported to the Pattaya police at 10:36 PM on January 22nd. The incident happened on Soi Wat Boon Samphan in Pattaya. Upon receiving the report, police, rescue workers, and The Pattaya News teams rushed to the scene. There, officers discovered the body of a 74-year-old British national, wearing only pants. He had fallen from the fourth floor of his condominium room and was found lifeless on the ground beside the walkway. However, no signs of physical assault were found on the body. A search of his room also revealed no signs of forced entry or missing valuables, but his wheelchair was found parked near the balcony. Handprints were discovered on the balcony railing, which police believed to belong to the deceased. Authorities documented them as evidence. Condo security guard Mr. Jarunsak, 61, told The Pattaya News that the deceased had been suffering from paralysis and had lived at the condominium for a long time. He also received daily care from a caregiver. Mr. Jarunsak was unaware of the cause of the incident. The body had been transferred to the Institute of Forensic Medicine at the Police General Hospital for an autopsy. Authorities will also contact the deceased’s relatives and caregiver for questioning before arranging for the body to be claimed for religious rites. TPN Media has withheld the name of the victim as the family and embassy were still being contacted as of press time. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/01/23/74-year-old-paralyzed-british-man-falls-to-death-from-pattaya-condo/

Your reports are tour de force. Brilliant combination of concise writing, engaging storytelling and wonderfully illustrated. It's a true service to the forum. Your narrative about X Club made me smile 11,000 miles away. Often we have no idea how a single interaction with a boy can have a profound effect on his outlook. Knowing you personally and through your posts, I really wasn't surprised. You made much merit and had one hell of a time with Mr. M. Keep the reports coming! Thank you.

...as are many of our favorite haunts.

Because he was posting videos of partners he was having sex with without their consent? Very different from commercial porn where participants understand that fate of video is to be widely distributed.

Standard formula: number of times you had sex with husband x number of nights he was unable to cum x 1,000 baht.

From Khaosod English A 26-year-old French student was arrested in Bangkok for posting explicit content and videos of intimate encounters with Thai women on social media platforms, police announced on January 20. The Immigration Bureau’s Investigation Division, led by Police Colonel Jirapong Rujidarongchai, acted on intelligence reports about a foreign national who had been sharing explicit materials and using social media to solicit sexual encounters while boasting about his physical attributes. Following an investigation and gathering of evidence, authorities obtained a search warrant from the Northern Bangkok Criminal Court. Officers raided a luxury condominium in the Chatuchak area, where they found the suspect, identified only as Mr. K, a French national studying at a prominent university in Thailand. The search also yielded various electronic devices and adult toys. When presented with evidence including video clips, Mr. K admitted to being the person in the materials. He claimed the actions were done out of youthful indiscretion and stated that while multiple women had been involved, he had ceased such activities over a year ago. Police Lieutenant General Chairit Anurit, commander of Immigration Division 3, stated that despite the suspect’s claims of having stopped his activities, the offense had already been committed. The suspect faces charges under computer crime laws for importing and distributing obscene computer data accessible to the public, as well as charges related to the production and distribution of obscene materials. https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2025/01/21/french-man-arrested-for-posting-explicit-content-with-thai-women/

From The Thaiger Thailand has made legal history by granting LGBTQ+ couples the right to sue adulterous spouses for compensation, marking a pivotal step towards equality under the law. The amendment, which came into effect today, ensure[s fair treatment for all couples, regardless of gender. The Civil and Commercial Code has been updated to allow LGBTQ+ spouses the same legal protections as heterosexual couples in cases of adultery. This landmark amendment to Article 1523 was prompted by a Constitutional Court ruling on June 18 last year, which found the previous law discriminatory and in violation of the Constitution’s Article 27, guaranteeing equality for all sexes. Under the old law, husbands could sue their wives’ lovers, regardless of gender, but wives could only sue their husbands’ female lovers. The court deemed this imbalance unjust and ordered the law to be amended. Effective immediately, the revised Article 1523 replaces gender-specific terms like “husbands” and “wives” with “spouses.” It states: “When the court grants a divorce due to adultery, one spouse may claim compensation from the offending spouse and from any third party involved, such as a lover or someone publicly presenting themselves as being in a relationship with the spouse.” Exceptions are outlined for cases where a spouse has consented to or been complicit in the adultery. The Cabinet approved the changes ahead of the effective date, highlighting the government’s commitment to marriage equality. This amendment supplements the Marriage Equality Act, further solidifying Thailand’s progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights, reported The Nation. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/new-thai-law-lets-lgbtq-couples-sue-for-adultery-compensation

From Pattaya Mail Rising concerns over beachside thefts Wearing expensive items while walking through the streets or along the beaches of Pattaya can make one stand out, but it also comes with certain risks. Pattaya is a lively and bustling city, attracting both tourists and locals from all walks of life. As much as the city offers luxury and glamour, it also has areas where tourists can be vulnerable to petty theft or scams, including from individuals posing as transgender women. There have been reports in the past of transgender individuals involved in thefts on Pattaya’s beaches, particularly targeting tourists who are distracted or not paying attention. In some instances, transgender thieves—often part of organized groups—have been known to approach tourists under the guise of friendly interactions, offering services such as posing for photos or asking for money in exchange for a “performance” or gift. These interactions can be an opening for theft, with expensive items like wallets, phones, and jewelry being stolen while the tourist is preoccupied or distracted by the exchange. Pattaya’s beaches, such as Pattaya Beach and Jomtien Beach, are popular spots for sunbathers, and tourists often carry valuable items like cameras, smartphones, and jewelry. While many transgender individuals in Pattaya work as performers or vendors and are part of the city’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community, a small number of individuals have exploited their position to target unsuspecting tourists. This has led to concerns over safety, particularly among those wearing expensive items that make them more noticeable and vulnerable. How to Avoid These Incidents: Stay Alert: If you’re walking along the beach or busy areas, remain vigilant about your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, and be cautious if someone approaches you unexpectedly. Secure Valuables: Leave expensive jewelry and electronics in a safe place, like a hotel room or locked bag, when you’re on the beach. Use secure, anti-theft bags for any valuables you do carry. Avoid Distractions: Be cautious of individuals who seem overly friendly or engaging in suspicious activities, such as offering to take photos or engage in unsolicited performances. Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels off or you feel uncomfortable, it’s better to walk away and keep moving to a more crowded or well-lit area. While Pattaya is a fantastic destination for tourists, wearing expensive items without considering the risks involved can sometimes attract unwanted attention. Being aware of incidents where individuals, including transgender thieves, may try to take advantage of tourists’ distractions is essential. By staying cautious and being mindful of your surroundings, you can enjoy Pattaya’s vibrant culture and nightlife while protecting yourself and your valuables.

From Bangkok Post Police have warned users of the location-sharing Jagat app they could face trespassing charges and put personal safety at risk in hunting for Jagat coins for cash rewards. The warning was issued by Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phiwpan, commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau. Users could also be at risk because they shared their personal data and location, which might be accessed by criminals, the cyber police chief said. Pol Lt Col Wasuthep Jai-in, deputy chief of the Patrol and Special Operations Division (PSD), advised people to stop using the app to hunt for the coins. He said rewards from the app allegedly came from criminal mule accounts and recipients might face a money-laundering investigation. He said the app originated in Indonesia and was operated by 17 foreigners based there and in Singapore and Vietnam. The coin hunt was launched in Thailand on Jan 15 with the physical coins reportedly hidden in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pattaya and Phuket. Police were searching for the people who initially placed the physical coins, he said. PSD commander Pol Maj Gen Worawit Yanachinda has ordered increased patrols to prevent offences by Jagat coin hunters and possible crimes against them. He said app users must pay for specific clues to a physical coin. One such clue had caused a lot of people to descend on the Silom area of Bangkok, causing great disruption to local people, the PSD chief said. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2945036/cyber-police-warn-of-risks-in-using-jagat-app

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) would like to invite tourists to the vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations taking place around Thailand. The streets will shine with dazzling light decorations on Yaowarat Road. CentralWorld will host the ‘Happy Chinese New Year 2025’ event, while Pak Nam Pho, Hat Yai, and Nakhon Lampang will all come alive with their unique celebrations. From cultural performances to stunning decorations and festive gatherings, this year’s celebrations offer a rich tapestry of joy and excitement to mark a truly wonderful start to 2025. Amazing Light Decorations on Yaowarat Road 19 January – 9 February 2025 On Yaowarat Road (Odean Circle to Chaloem Buri intersection) Highlights: a stunning lighting installation themed “Ignite Your Senses: Embrace Our Two Cultures” will illuminate Chinatown, with the opening ceremony set for 19 January at 19:30 Hrs. at the Chinatown Gate. The celebrations include a showcase marking 50 years of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations on 29–30 January. The grand highlight is the live broadcast of the opening ceremony on 29 January, presided over by HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, featuring cultural performances by Chinese and Thai-Chinese artists. Happy Chinese New Year 2025 at CentralWorld 28 January – 2 February 2025 Outdoor Square, CentralWorld Highlights: the celebrations feature a blessing ceremony between Thailand and China on 28 January, followed by cultural exchange performances and shows by three performing arts troupes from China, representing Xinjiang, Zhejiang, and Yunnan. Visitors can enjoy hands-on cultural demonstrations such as lantern crafting, Chinese calligraphy, and clay sculpting alongside a vibrant food market and live performances by renowned Thai-Chinese artists throughout the festival. Pak Nam Pho Chinese New Year 2025 (Nakhon Sawan Wonderland) 22 January – 2 February 2025 Chao Phraya River, Mueang District, Nakhon Sawan Highlights: The event will include vibrant parades, Chinese-style decorations, cultural performances with light and sound displays, and a bustling marketplace. Nongkhai Chinese New Year Festival 2025 22-26 January 2025 Tekka Chee Nai Khor Foundation, Mueang District, Nong Khai Khon Kaen Chinese New Year Festival 2025 24-26 January 2025 From 17.00-22.00 Hrs. Khon Kaen City Pillar Shrine, Mueang District, Khon Kaen Udon Thani Chinese New Year Festival 2025 24-27 January 2025 From 18.00 Hrs. onwards Grandfather-Grandmother Shrine, Mueang District, Udon Thani Highlights: Chinese art and cultural activities by Udon Thani’s distinguished Chinese descendant clubs and families, including lion dance, golden dragon dance, red lantern decorations, Chinese music performances, and sales of traditional Chinese New Year food to bring luck and good fortune. Pattaya Chinese New Year Festival 2025 25 January 2025 Lan Pho Public Park, Pattaya, Chon Buri Highlights: Thai-Chinese cultural performances, lion and dragon dance performances, concerts by famous artists, and an exhibition on the history of the Chinese New Year festival. Samut Sakhon Leng Kee Chu Chinese New Year Festival 2025 25-29 January 2025 From 16.00-21.00 Hrs. Samut Sakhon City Pillar Shrine, Mueng District, Samut Sakhon Highlights: Parade of the God of Wealth (Cai Shen Ye), light and sound shows, Thai-Chinese cultural performances, decorations along the embankment of the Samut Sakhon City Pillar Shrine and the Tha Chalom side, booths selling Thai-Chinese cultural products and demonstration booths, Illuminated boat parade on the Tha Chin River, and lion and dragon dances. Krabi Chinese New Year Festival 2025 27-30 January 2025 From 17.00 Hrs. onwards. Maharat Road, In front of Vogue Shopping Center, Krabi Highlights: decorative lighting, attend a ceremony to worship the God of Wealth, followed by a feast featuring popular dishes from Krabi. Hat Yai Chinese New Year Festival 2025 28 January – 2 February 2025 Srinakorn Foundation School, Thepsongkroh and Chi Uthit Road, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Highlights: showcasing a 500-drone light show, decorative lighting, illuminated sculptures, a Guanyin shrine, cultural performances, a parade, and a lively marketplace. The Procession of their Deities & Chinese New Year Festival 28 January – 6 February 2025 Tong Sia Siang Teung Foundation, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Suphan Buri Chinese New Year Festival 2025 29–30 January 2025 The Dragon Descendants Museum and Suphan Buri City Pillar Shrine, Suphan Buri Highlights: The Dragon Descendants Museum will feature cultural performances, live music, stage shows, and a bustling marketplace. Happy Chinese New Year 2025 For All @Nakhon Lampang 29-31 January 2025 From 17.00 Hrs. onwards Prasan Maitri Road, Mueang District, Lampang Highlights: decorative lighting, Chinese Nakhon Lampang 2025 contest, Chinese cultural performance and lion and dragon dances, enjoy Chinese singing, instrumental music, and Tai Chi performances, join the DIY activities and variety of foods and products. Ratchaburi Chinatown Fair 2025 28 January – 2 February 205 Pracha Phatthana Dam, Mueang District, Ratchaburi Highlights: lion and dragon dances, cultural performances, parades, contemporary shows and artist performances, light decorations and lantern displays, cooking demonstrations of traditional Chinese New Year food, and art demonstrations. https://www.tatnews.org/2025/01/chinese-new-year-festival-2025-around-thailand

Hook, line and sinker....😋 These are not bashful guys, waiting for you to make first move. Glad to hear you had a good time. +1

Agree. Spoke with a non-member who visited BoyzBoyzBoyz last night with a friend. Reports that it was packed, including many female Asian customers. Guys on stage all in street clothes. Judging by observations voiced elsewhere, this place seems to be best attended boy bar in Pattaya. It owes its success to a show that its audience demands and can command top of market off fees. Friend said other Boystown bars didn't seem that busy around 10p.m.

Never said anything about zippers coming down or going up. The best way to find out what it's like is to go there, buy a boy a drink and talk about whatever comes up. You found out what Golden Cock was actually like by going there. You got to experience Green Massage by going inside and sampling the wares. Carpe diem!