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KK Massage has become first Saphan Kwai shop I’m aware of that published English and Chinese language posts. Although I believe they got their opening hours mixed up in translation, it represents a step forward in recognition of a wider audience. Welcome to a good gay massage parlour in Bangkok. There are gays and straight men serving more than 100+ customers. Our shop is open from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. every day. And find fun at KK Massage and spa (opposite Inthamara 23). 欢迎来到曼谷一家不错的同性恋按摩院。有同性恋和直男为100多名顾客提供服务。我们的商店每天上午11点至10点营业。在KK按摩和水疗中心（Inthamara 23相反）找到乐趣。

A friend visiting his family became involved in a unique rescue effort in his village in The Ha Tinh province of Vietnam. A water buffalo last Friday fell into a shallow well. Its owner sent out urgent calls to the community for help and within minutes would-be rescuers of all ages began converging on the location. They first attempted to manhandle the animal out but were unable to obtain the needed leverage. A local contractor soon joined the effort with his front end loader. My friend’s uncle volunteered to attach heavy duty lifting straps to the animal now trapped on its back in the well. The crane operator then managed to remove the buffalo in a delicate maneuver without causing any additional injury as the scores of residents looked on. 548362508059017558.mp4 After a brief rest, the buffalo got to its feet and headed home, followed by a grateful caretaker. All told, it was impressive example of how a rural community rallied to save one of its treasured members. 548347840176062534.mp4

From Bangkok Post A Thammasat University scholar is urging the government to focus on attracting older tourists who tend to stay longer in the country and have higher spending power. The government has declared 2025 as the year of "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports", aiming to attract 40 million international tourists and generate at least 3 trillion baht in revenue this year. Assoc Prof Saifon Suindramedhi, dean of Thammasat University's College of Interdisciplinary Studies, said the initiative's goal of receiving 40 million visitors and making 3–3.5 trillion baht in revenue is achievable. She said Thailand welcomed about 35.5 million tourists last year, so reaching the government's new target would require just an additional 5 million visitors. However, she pointed out the programme still follows traditional tourism models similar to those used in the past five years, with a focus on music, food and sporting events. These attractions, she said, primarily draw younger travellers who tend to stay for shorter periods and spend less than older tourists. She suggested the government also focus on high-spending tourists who can stay in the country for longer, particularly retirees. Assoc Prof Saifon also advocates the creation of an ecosystem that supports senior travellers through friendly urban design and policies that cater for them. "Senior tourists don't need to visit many places in one day," she said. "They may go to one or two places a day and prefer small or secondary cities over major urban centres. "They seek comfort, relaxation and a sense of security," she added. "They may look for a place with an infrastructure that supports their needs, including elder-friendly hotels, accessible healthcare services and welcoming local communities." https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2962546/shift-focus-to-wealthier-older-demographic-expert

There’s two ways it can be interpreted. One is no penetration. The other is “outcall” service (arranging for guy to go to your room). Normally outcall service is 500 baht higher than in house. Typically it prices out at 1500. If “outside” price is only 1000 I’d suspect it means no penetration. If in doubt I’d send message or call shop.

From Pattaya News Thailand’s financial landscape is undergoing big changes as the Bank of Thailand (BoT) introduces new regulations to enhance the security and efficiency of mobile banking. Let’s talk about how these affect non Thai nationals with support from our legal partners at Anglo Siam Legal. These updates, driven by multiple factors including concerns on call center scams that have dominated headlines, aim to protect users. For tourists, foreigners, and expats, these changes can have both positives and negatives. Recent and Upcoming Changes in Mobile Banking Regulations One Account, One Device Rule: As of recent announcements, mobile banking services will now be limited to one account per device for each bank. This aims to reduce the risk of fraud. Users must register their device, and switching or upgrading devices requires re-authentication with the bank, often in person. Enhanced Biometric Authentication: The BoT has mandated biometric verification, such as facial recognition, for certain mobile banking transactions. Stricter Know Your Customer (KYC) Requirements: Financial institutions are tightening KYC processes, particularly for electronic transactions. Foreigners and non-residents may face more rigorous identity verification, especially when opening accounts or conducting high-value transfers. Transaction Limits and Monitoring: To combat money laundering and fraud, the BoT has introduced limits on mobile banking transactions, with stricter monitoring for large or frequent transfers. Users may need to verify their identity for transactions exceeding certain thresholds. Mobile SIM card changes In Thailand, new mobile banking rules will require the name on your mobile banking account to match the name of the SIM card holder registered with your bank. This is to combat online scams, particularly those using “mule” accounts. Key Details: Verification Deadline: You must confirm your identity with your mobile service provider by April 30, 2025. If not, your mobile banking services may be suspended. Notifications: Banks will notify you via their mobile banking apps if you need to verify. No notifications will be sent through other channels to prevent fraud. If you do not get a notification, you are ok. Scope: Over 120 million SIM cards may eventually need verification. Authorities are initially focusing on 2 million SIMs with mismatched names, including some with no registered owner. Exemptions: SIMs registered under government agencies or organizations for employee use may be exempt. Impact: If suspended, you can still use traditional banking channels, but mobile banking will be restricted until the mismatch is resolved. If you receive a notification, contact your bank and mobile provider to update your details before the deadline. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/02/16/legal-corner-how-upcoming-stricter-mobile-phone-banking-changes-in-thailand-affect-you/

You mentioned this movie in earlier post. It’s currently available on Netflix in Thailand and may well be elsewhere. Recommended.

That’s how small news operations worldwide get much of their crime content: reading police reports. With the death of print media, we’d know little of what goes on in Pattaya if not for websites like the Mail and News. The Bangkok Post is the last surviving English language print newspaper in the capital city, if not all of Thailand.

From Bangkok Post Mae Hong Son: Amid the mountains of northern Thailand is a hub for backpackers to lie in hammocks, swim in waterfalls, walk along the Bamboo Bridge and bask in the sun, as travellers slowly sink into what's known as the "Pai hole" in Pai district. However, there could be trouble in paradise with an overpopulation of tourists creating tension for locals. Once a quiet market village, surrounded by rice fields, hot springs and rivers, Pai is now a thriving hotspot for Thailand's tourists. Famous for its bohemian atmosphere, cheap lifestyle and lively party scene, Pai is a touring backpacker's dream. Falling into the Pai Hole is a common fate for travellers, who plan to visit for a few days and stay for a lifetime. Canadian traveller, Alex Chambers, 29, knows what it is to fall into the Pai hole. "Once you are here you realise just how special Pai is, it becomes very hard to want to leave," says Mr Chambers, who has been to Pai nine times. The walkable city layout, good, affordable quality food and weather are the key factors that make Pai so special, Mr Chambers says. Continues at https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2961958/tourist-crowds-spark-tension-in-pai

What kind of woman would do such a thing on Valentine’s Day! From Patttaya News A Turkish man reported to the police that he lost his money after inviting a woman from Pattaya Beach to join him on Valentine’s Day. Pattaya City Police informed the Phuket Express that the victim, identified only as Mr. Nevzat filed a report at 2:46 AM on Saturday, February 15th. He told the police that he met a woman on Pattaya Beach, and they negotiated a price to “hang out” before going to a hotel together to relax. Mr. Nevzat took a shower while the woman remained in the room. When he came out of the bathroom, however, the woman was gone, and no “activity” had taken place. He attempted to contact her but was unsuccessful. Upon checking his wallet, Mr. Nevzat discovered that he had lost a total of 25,000 Baht. He believes the woman stole the money. Pattaya City Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage to locate the suspect. Prostitution is illegal in Thailand, notes TPN media, but a special law also exists to prevent theft by night in situations like this.

I think it’s an annual event in appreciation of their patronage of the soi. Very well attended.

Soi Thaniya tonight with entertainment and many vendors

The new Dusit Thani hotel opened last September. It’s located on Rama 4, not too far from Silom rd. https://www.dusit.com/iconic-dusit-thani-bangkok-hotel-confirms-reopening-on-27-september-2024-with-a-stunning-new-look-and-elevated-guest-experience/ If photo in your post was of building on site of the old Dusit at corner of Silom, it is a different structure, owned by Dusit Thani Corporation, that is still under construction.

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.