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Emergency numbers Police & emergencies – 191 This may be the most important number to remember. Thailand has reportedly made 191 the main call center for all emergencies. If the operator is unable to speak English, call 1155 (below). Tourist Police – 1155 or (+66) 2308-0333 This hotline is available 24 hours a day and they will all speak English. This is an important phone number to remember – They will help you out with any concerns or questions you have and can redirect you to the correct number you may need. Public Ambulance (Everywhere) – 1669 Dialing this number will connect you to a public ambulance service, which will dispatch a vehicle to your location. The average response time for urban areas is around 10 minutes, but may take up to 30 minutes in rural areas. English-speaking staff should be available to assist you. Fire Department – 199 In case of an emergency such as a house fire, or forest fire, call 199 for the Fire Department to be dispatched to your location. Private Ambulance (Bangkok) – 1724 or 1719 The response time of a public ambulance can vary. Traffic is terrible in Bangkok so it could be worth noting down these private ambulance numbers. It will cost you more but you are likely to get to the hospital and be treated quickly. Highway Police – 1193 If you plan on driving in Thailand, then you may end up needing to use this number if you break down in an unsafe place etc. Continues with list of embassy and consulates numbers: https://itsbetterinthailand.com/emergency-numbers-and-other-useful-contacts-in-thailand/

From the BBC US President-elect Donald Trump has launched his own cryptocurrency, which quickly soared in market capitalisation to several billion dollars. His release of the meme coin, $Trump, comes as he prepares to take office on Monday as 47th president of the US. The venture was co-ordinated by CIC Digital LLC - an affiliate of the Trump Organization - which has previously sold Trump-branded shoes and fragrances. Meme coins are used to build popularity for a viral internet trend or movement, but they lack intrinsic value and are extremely volatile investments. By Saturday afternoon, hours after its launch, the market capitalisation for $Trump reached nearly $5.5bn (£4.5bn), according to CoinMarketCap.com. CIC Digital LLC and Fight Fight Fight LLC, a company formed in Delaware earlier this month, own 80% of the tokens. It is unclear how much money Trump might make from the venture. "My NEW Official Trump Meme is HERE! It's time to celebrate everything we stand for: WINNING!" Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social as he announced the meme coin on Friday night. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9vmym2jvy9o

We're from the government and we're here to help you on your road to poverty. From MSN Thailand is planning to launch its cryptocurrency sandbox before the end of this year. According to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, the sandbox will likely be launched around October and will be located in Phuket. According to Shinawatra, the move will be a turning point for the country, noting how well they have thrived regarding the crypto industry. Shinawatra also thinks that Thailand is well equipped compared to other regions, as they continue to move ahead in the crypto industry. He noted that the crypto industry has been boosted by the decision of the United States President-elect Donald Trump to push for it. Bitcoin and other assets saw a rally as Trump, who made so many promises to the sector during his campaign, won against Kamala Harris in a hard-fought battle. In a discussion about the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region’s economy, Shinawatra noted that most countries in the region have been holding extensive talks with Thailand. He noted that since Thailand have been able to make a commendable feat regarding the crypto industry, it has presented an opportunity to inject money into the economic system. In addition, he said that discussions on this subject are underway, hopeful that it will come to a fruitful end. Shinawatra also mentioned that cryptocurrencies should be leveraged quickly, as a delay might lead to the best minds moving to a better-suited environment like the United States. He added that digital assets are a new form of digital currency, which should not be confused with gambling. Stablecoins, the least volatile assets, are usually backed by other assets like gold or government bonds. He highlighted that stablecoins carry less risk than others. He mentioned that the country will not adopt digital assets that present high risks, adding that a sandbox is expected to be launched in October. In addition, the sandbox will include the private sector, as it presents a way to rub minds on the subject. Shinawatra discussed the crypto sandbox idea at a recent Pheu Thai party seminar. He is currently the de facto leader of the party, which currently houses the majority ruling members in the country. In the seminar, Shinawatra introduced the idea of using Phuket as the location for the sandbox. Continues at https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/thailand-set-to-launch-its-crypto-sandbox-this-year/ar-AA1xsfLl

From Pattaya Mail Will Robinson’s latest cinematic masterpiece, Thailand Amazing Thailand, premiered during a private screening luncheon attended by esteemed guests, including former Minister of Tourism and Sports, Weerasak Kowsurat. Hosted at the Hyatt Regency Hotel recently, the event also marked the 10th anniversary of The Isan Project, Robinson’s ground-breaking initiative that fuses traditional Thai music with contemporary Western sounds. Robinson’s new film is an artistic journey through Thailand’s stunning landscapes, vibrant festivals, and rich cultural heritage. With its enthralling adventures and original music, the film showcases the beauty and spirit of Thailand like never before. Guests at the premiere lauded Robinson’s dedication and passion, noting the deep emotional resonance of his work and its ability to capture the essence of the country. The Isan Project began a decade ago when British producer Will Robinson travelled to Northeast Thailand in search of authentic Isan sounds. This exploration led to the creation of a unique musical fusion, blending handmade Thai instruments with Western beats. Over the years, Robinson has collaborated with over 500 artists, bringing Isan’s vibrant music and dance to global audiences, including a memorable performance in the streets of New York. https://www.pattayamail.com/travel/will-robinsons-thailand-amazing-thailand-celebrates-10-years-of-the-isan-project-487673

From Bangkok Post PHUKET: Two foreign visitors died after attending a world-renowned electric dance music festival in this southern island province on Saturday night. Both foreigners, an American and a Canadian, passed out at the Electric Daisy Carnival Thailand 2025 music festival in tambon Choeng Thale of Thalang district Saturday night. According to police, Canadian Sharfaraz Maqbul Ahmed, 28, was brought to Thalang Hospital at 8.50pm on Saturday. On arrival there, he was unconscious but still had a pulse. Hospital staff then tried to resuscitate him but to no avail. He was pronounced dead at 9.26pm on Saturday. American Minh Nguyen Quang Phan, 32, was taken from the music festival venue to Thalang Hospital at 11.35pm on Saturday. Resuscitation attempts failed and he was pronounced dead at 12.30am on Sunday. Police and staff of Thalang Hospital could not immediately identify the cause of the deaths. The bodies had yet to be examined at Vachiraphuket Hospital. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2942957/foreigners-die-after-after-attending-music-festival-in-phuket

Agree. I've posted two reports of police making arrests of Chinese scammers using that equipment in central Bangkok area recently.

Phetboy Massage in Saphan Kwai today announced that it is opening a second location: Diamond Boy Spa Massage at the following location: Ramkhamhaeng soi 43/1 You can get a 200 baht discount coupon at this address: https://lin.ee/6EDbqYE https://www.google.com/maps/place/Soi+Ramkhamhaeng+43%2F1,+Krung+Thep+Maha+Nakhon,+Thailand/@13.764881,100.5744233,13z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x30e29e1cc90c83ab:0xc912a719dbbfea54!8m2!3d13.764881!4d100.6156274!16s%2Fg%2F1tfvwlmf?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDExNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D

From Bangkok Post A Chinese model who had been missing for almost a month has been located and safely returned to his country, Thai police said on Saturday. The Chinese embassy confirmed that Yang Zeqi, 25, was back home, said Pol Gen Chatchai Pitaneelaboot, inspector-general with the Royal Thai Police Office, who was in Mae Sot district of Tak on Friday. On Friday, Yang’s father had asked national police chief Kittharath Punpetch to speed up efforts to find his son, who was lured to Thailand with the offer of a role in a film. Lawyer Ratchapon Sirisakorn, who set up the meeting between Yang Hai Tao and Thai police, said he received confirmation from the family that their son had been rescued and safely returned to China. The family would send a letter to thank the Chinese embassy and Thai authorities, he said. Police have not disclosed any details about how or where Yang was found. They also have not confirmed speculation that Yang had fallen victim to one of the notorious scam gangs across the border in Myawaddy, as in the case of Chinese actor Wang Xing. The actor was found unharmed, but with his head shaved, after going missing earlier this month in Tak province. Thai police said they believed Wang was a victim of human trafficking. (Story continues below) https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2942435/missing-chinese-model-returns-home-safely

TIT.

They're fond of it, too.

deleted /repeat

From MSN We are all vulnerable to the rapid spread of phone scams – including, it seems, world leaders. Thailand’s prime minister has revealed she got a call from an AI system, demanding money in the voice of another famous head of government. Paetongtarn Shinawatra did not reveal who the computer was mimicking, but said she received a message in a voice identical to a well-known leader. "The voice was very clear, and I recognized it immediately. They first sent a voice clip, saying something like, ‘How are you? I want to work together,’ and so on,” Paetongtarn said. She said she later missed a call from the same number, then received a voice message which cut to the chase: “They sent another voice message asking for a donation, saying, ‘You are the only country in (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) that hasn’t donated yet,’ emphasizing it. I was taken aback for a moment and realized something was off.” She said whoever sent the message “probably used AI to take the voice” of the unnamed world leader. Continues at https://www.msn.com/en-us/politics/government/even-world-leaders-receive-scam-calls-just-ask-thailand-s-prime-minister/ar-AA1xivje

From Pattaya Mail Pattaya is a bustling city, especially on weekends when both tourists and locals come to enjoy its vibrant atmosphere. Getting around efficiently can enhance your experience, so here are the best ways to travel within Pattaya on weekends: Songthaews (Baht Buses): The iconic blue pickup trucks with benches at the back are the most popular and budget-friendly way to travel around Pattaya. These operate on fixed routes along major roads like Beach Road, Second Road, and Sukhumvit Road. Simply hop on, press the buzzer when you reach your destination, and pay the flat fare (usually 10–30 THB depending on the route). Tip: Always confirm the fare before boarding, especially if the driver offers a private ride. Motorbike Taxis: For quick and convenient short trips, motorbike taxis are ideal. They can navigate through traffic and take you to your destination faster than most other options. Look for drivers in brightly colored vests stationed at major intersections and attractions. Tip: Negotiate the price beforehand if you’re unsure about the fare. Rental Motorbikes and Scooters: If you prefer flexibility and independence, renting a motorbike or scooter is a great choice. Rentals typically cost 150–300 THB per day, and fuel is affordable. This option allows you to explore attractions outside the city, like Jomtien Beach or Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, at your own pace. Tip: Wear a helmet, carry your driving license, and familiarize yourself with Thai traffic rules. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab and Bolt are widely available in Pattaya. They are more comfortable than other options and offer door-to-door service. Prices are generally reasonable, but they can be higher during peak hours or if traffic is heavy. Tip: Use the app to get an upfront fare estimate and avoid haggling. Walking: For shorter distances, walking can be a pleasant way to explore Pattaya. Beach Road and Walking Street are pedestrian-friendly, and you can soak in the lively atmosphere while discovering street food stalls, shops, and attractions. Tip: Bring a hat and water bottle to stay cool during the day. Cycling: Cycling is an eco-friendly option, especially in areas like Jomtien Beach or Pratumnak Hill. Many shops offer bicycle rentals, and some hotels provide them for free to guests. Tip: Stick to quieter roads or designated bike paths for safety. Private Car or Minivan Rentals: If you’re traveling with a group or visiting attractions outside the city, renting a private car or minivan with a driver is a convenient option. This is especially useful for day trips to places like the Sanctuary of Truth or Silverlake Vineyard. Tip: Book in advance, especially on weekends when demand is high. Weekend Traffic Tips Avoid peak hours: Traffic is usually heavier in the late afternoon and evening, particularly near Walking Street and Beach Road. Plan ahead: Popular attractions and beaches can get crowded, so leave early to beat the rush. By choosing the right mode of transport, you can enjoy Pattaya’s lively weekend scene without any hassle. Whether you’re exploring its beaches, nightlife, or cultural sites, getting around the city can be as fun as the destination itself! By choosing the right mode of transport, you can enjoy Pattaya’s lively weekend scene without any hassle. Whether you’re exploring its beaches, ! https://www.pattayamail.com/travel/how-to-travel-around-pattaya-on-weekends-the-best-options-487523

From Pattaya Mail EDITORIAL Pattaya Mail’s recent report of an expat club meeting about potential tax charges on income remitted to Thailand since January 2024 was quickly copied (with cosmetic changes) by several other news sources plus heated comments. If there was any doubt before, there’s none now: this is the number one concern of the expat community in Thailand, particularly the 250,000 or so retirees and non-working long stayers. There are several well-publicized armed camps, sometimes overlapping, which compete for your support. A very vocal group are the “Not on your life” adherents. They say they didn’t come to Thailand to share their pre-taxed pensions with the Thai Revenue Department (TRD) and won’t do a thing unless, or until, tax officials turn up of their doorstep. They also doubt whether TRD has the resources to check up on everybody, a belief that is potentially optimistic given the ever-expanding computerization of records and the future impact of artificial intelligence. A second group, often better informed than the first, are the “It’s all exaggerated” adherents. They examine some of the detail but say modest earners need not get involved. They argue that there has been no actual change in the law and that foreign “experts” in Thailand have blown the whole matter out of proportion to encourage pensioners and others to join up and open their wallets. Foreigners shouldn’t be giving legal advice anyway as that’s banned under the alien employment legislation. One problem with this comforting overview is that native Thai lawyers and tax accountants are themselves divided on the whole subject. Tax matters are often open to interpretation. Then there are the “Double taxation treaty” discounters. They point to these agreements as generalized excusals that mean foreign nationals from 61 countries are immune from further reporting if they transmit funds to Thailand. However, an alternative interpretation is that the notoriously complex treaties do not bestow automatic exemptions but, in order to be activated, require reference or caution when an income tax form is actually submitted.A fourth group, “Foot in the water” supporters say the best thing to do now is to apply for a tax identification number (tin) from your local revenue office, but not actually send in a tax return. In this way you have met the tax authorities half-way, so to speak, in case of audit problems later. There is, of course, nothing illegal in having a tin and not submitting a return, though you are actually confirming to the TRD you have nothing to declare for that particular year. But some say that registering without needing to simply brings you to official attention. A fourth group, “Foot in the water” supporters say the best thing to do now is to apply for a tax identification number (tin) from your local revenue office, but not actually send in a tax return. In this way you have met the tax authorities half-way, so to speak, in case of audit problems later. There is, of course, nothing illegal in having a tin and not submitting a return, though you are actually confirming to the TRD you have nothing to declare for that particular year. But some say that registering without needing to simply brings you to official attention. A fifth group “Sure is better than sorry” advocates submitting a tax form unless you are sure you have no tax liability from foreign income remitted to Thailand in a particular year. Supporters of this view say doing nothing now could expose you to audit in later years with fines and even deportation being possible if you have erred in the past. Critics of this stance say that theoretical rules in Thailand are frequently ignored. For example. most Thai nationals do not fill in a tax form and don’t intend to irrespective of the source of funds. TRD is a bogeyman to foreigners but not to your average Thai national. Listen to the locals. Pattaya Mail is not qualified to give tax advice to individuals. The likelihood is that there will be a spike in TRD registrations by panicky foreigners in March 2025, the final month to submit the tax form and any tax due for the calendar year 2024. Announcements by the TRD, if any, in the next few weeks could upend the whole debate. In the meantime, there is always the option of speaking to a Thai tax lawyer about your personal circumstances, several of whom offer free consultations as mentioned from time to time on our news website. Or maybe the income tax issue is akin to extensions on the Destination Thailand Visa: the rules are subject to the interpretation of the officer dealing with your particular case. As Bernard Trump used to say: TIT or This Is Thailand. https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/foreigners-and-income-tax-take-your-pick-487470

Thanks for fantastic report! Enjoyed all of it but was particularly pleased that your visit to 39 Underground turned out so well. Agree about Freshboy. Great show and guys to match.

There's no doubt it's a good investment if three conditions exist: 1, You use use it requently 2. You find availability of guys you want 3. The shop isn't taken over by new owner or closes during the year. I believe owner considered it carefully but was in need of a quick infusion of cash for whatever reason. This is one of the busiest shops in SK and only three minutes from BTS station.

Gee, I hope owner didn't forget to insure them to the hilt before he left. From Pattaya News A luxury home in Hui Yai owned by a Chinese businessman was broken into by thieves, who allegedly stole over 100 million baht worth of high-end watches. At 1:30 AM on January 16th, Huai Yai police received a report of a burglary at a house in a luxury housing estate in Huai Yai, Chonburi province. Police rushed to the scene with forensic investigators from Chonburi Forensic Division 2. The incident scene, a two-story detached house covering around 80 square wah, is worth more than 8 million baht. Inside a second-floor room, officers found a black safe measuring 1 meter wide and 1.5 meters high. Mr. Yu Chao, a 43-year-old Chinese national and caretaker of the house, told police in a state of shock that he is a friend of the homeowner, Mr. Wang Liang Chen, a 39-year-old Chinese businessman in Thailand’s tour industry. Mr. Wang had returned to China, leaving Mr. Yu to look after the house. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/01/17/thieves-ransack-chinese-businessmans-luxury-home-allegedly-steal-over-100-million-baht-in-watches/

My translation reads "unlimited massage times". That could be interpreted as hours of availability. However, I think your interpretation is more likely correct. I've been using the shop regularly over past few years. However, on last visit manager pushed me to select from limited number of choices on tablet rather than from much longer list on website.

Sounds like cash flow issue.

Arriving in Danang last year, my VN friend purchased a one week sim card at one of the many vendors at airport. It stopped working after 24 hours. Luckily I didn't get one and relied on hotel wifi.

For those with limitless appetite, Phetboy thinks it has your number. For today only, you can purchase one-hour massages for the remainder of 2025 for an up front payment of 10,000 baht. The notice is a bit unclear about frequency limitations, if any.

@vinapu suggestion may have been taken to heart by a foreign man who rode half naked yesterday on a red baht bus in Phuket, exposing yummy buttocks to all comers. From Phuket Times Thai netizens criticised a foreign man after a photograph of him standing half-naked on a red baht bus in Phuket circulated on Thai social media platforms. The Phuket Times shared the images yesterday, January 16, with a caption that read, “#Patong. A foreign tourist pulled his shorts down and revealed his bottom. Doesn’t care about anyone.” The two images shared by the page showed the foreign man standing half-naked at the back of the red baht bus. He removed his shirt and draped it over his shoulder. He also pulled his shorts down to the level of his bottom. As he had his back to the camera, it was unclear whether he exposed his private parts to other passengers inside the vehicle. A foreign woman captured in the photo appeared confused by the man’s actions. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/phuket-netizens-slams-half-naked-foreign-man-on-red-baht-bus

From The Nation The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) plans to issue a directive requiring biometric authentication for SIM card registration as part of efforts to combat unauthorised SIM cards and online scammers. NBTC Commissioner for legal affairs and chairman of the Subcommittee on the Integration of Technology Law Enforcement Pol General Natthorn Prohsunthorn said a recent meeting had discussed and approved urgent measures and strategies to combat telecommunications technology crimes, call-centre scams and boost state security. “These measures are expected to provide a more concrete resolution to the problem of call-centre scams,” Natthorn said. The NBTC, in collaboration with the police, recently seized numerous SIM boxes and SIM cards. Upon investigation, it was discovered that most of these SIM cards had been registered using fake identification documents or photographs of other individuals, primarily by foreigners, Natthorn said. During the meeting, it was proposed that the NBTC issue a directive requiring biometric authentication for SIM card registration. Additionally, a limit was proposed for foreign workers from three nationalities, allowing registration of no more than three SIM cards per person per operator, and mandating the use of passports for registration. The meeting also recommended implementing a "Set Zero" policy for SMS systems containing links, requiring all operators to re-register and submit links for approval before sending. Other measures discussed to combat call-centre scams included displaying the caller's name (Caller ID) and requiring internet signals from SIM cards for transferring significant amounts of money. These measures aim to make law enforcement efforts more efficient while making it harder for criminals to commit fraud. The meeting also proposed a Caller ID system linked with the Royal Thai Police, displaying the caller’s name to the recipient, making it more challenging for scammers to deceive the public. Discussions with mobile operators are underway to establish appropriate guidelines. https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/news/general/40045273

From Khaosod English Thailand’s population declined by 100,000 in 2024 to 65.95 million, marking a historic demographic shift as annual births fell below 500,000 for the first time since 1949, despite government efforts to promote childbearing through the “Having Children for the Nation” campaign. According to data released by the Department of Provincial Administration on January 8, 2025, Thailand’s total population stands at 65,951,210, with 64,953,661 Thai nationals and 997,549 non-Thai residents. Bangkok remains the most populous area with 5,455,020 residents. The country recorded 462,240 births against 571,646 deaths in 2024, continuing a four-year trend where deaths outnumber births. The marriage registry showed 263,087 new couples, while 147,621 couples divorced during the same period. https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2025/01/17/thailands-population-drops-below-66-million-as-births-hit-75-year-low/

If Whitey Bulger was still among us, you could be kneecapped for that.