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They're fond of it, too.

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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.

From Theworld.org Thailand has close to a million stray cats and dogs. That’s no surprise to anyone who’s walked a couple blocks in Bangkok. There’s often a four-legged creature underfoot, most of them friendly, some potentially dangerous. Loose cats and dogs are often well fed by locals — offering food is seen as “merit making” by many Buddhists — but city officials are enacting new laws to reduce the stray population. The World’s Patrick Winn reports. Listen to report from Bangkok https://theworld.org/segments/2025/01/16/bangkok-struggles-to-rein-in-stray-cats-and-dogs Link to PAWS Bangkok https://www.facebook.com/pawsbangkok/

All statistics are made up on the spot, to quote Vinapu 🙂

There's one shop (the largest) in SK that uses photoshop exclusively while others use it sparingly. If the photography appears too professional, I assume it's been shopped. Phoeinix does not use it and most its guys appear better in person. The advantage of using shops in Silom / Surawong area is that guys can be readily seen outside or just inside door.

On Koh Tao, island mafia determines everything. Autopsy delayed by "waves." Whole thing is suspicious.

From Khaosod English Chinese father Mr. Y. Haitao (left) submits a letter to National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panpetch, requesting help in finding his son (right), a model who disappeared in Thailand, at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters on January 16, 2025. BANGKOK — Another Chinese father has sought help from Thai police to locate his son, a model who disappeared after traveling to Thailand. This follows the cases of Wang Xing, the Chinese actor, and another father searching for his 21-year-old daughter from Jiangsu province, whom Thai police later rescued from Myanmar. Mr. Y. Haitao came with Thai lawyer Rachaphon Sirisakhon to submit a letter to Police General Kittirat Panpetch, the National Police Chief, on January 16 at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters. Haitao explained that his son arrived in Thailand on December 21, 2024, flying from Beijing to Suvarnabhumi Airport. The last communication with him was on December 29, 2024, when he made a WeChat video call to his mother. During the call, he appeared anxious and distressed, with visible bruising around his eyes, leading his father to suspect physical abuse. The father noted unusual behavior during the video call – his son kept his hands on the table throughout the conversation instead of holding the phone, suggesting someone else might have been holding it. When asked if his son requested help during the call, the father said there were no explicit requests or signals for assistance, believing his son was under surveillance and possibly being held against his will. Continues with video https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2025/01/16/missing-chinese-models-last-suspicious-call-near-myanmar-border/

From The Thaiger Hailing from the picturesque village of Quilty in County Clare, Robby had set his sights on the vibrant diving havens in Southeast Asia. “He just walked in one day and said, ‘I am going to Thailand. I have already booked the ticket.’ It was where all the diving was. He was doing very, very well over there and supported himself through his diving qualifications.” Grieving friends have set up a fundraiser to bring Robby’s body back to Ireland, amassing nearly 45,000 euros (1.6 million baht) by Wednesday morning. Paying tribute to the vivacious backpacker, a close friend said he was the kind of person who lit up every room with his kindness and warmth. “He was always the first to help others, putting their needs before his own without a second thought.” In his final days, Robby’s dreams came alive amid Koh Tao’s azure depths, as he free dived and scuba-dived in the place that brought him boundless joy, surrounded by an ever-growing circle of friends. His untimely passing has cast a dark shadow over what should have been the adventure of a lifetime, leaving those who knew him grappling for answers and mourning a life tragically cut short. Fresh details have emerged about the untimely death of Irish diver Robert “Robby” Kinlan, who was discovered lifeless in his room at the Baan Tao Bungalo Resort on Thailand’s infamous Koh Tao Island, also known for its chilling moniker, Death Island. Local Thai police revealed that the young diver, found around 11am on Thursday, January 9, is believed to have succumbed to acute heart failure. The 21 year old’s lifeless body was discovered by a friend, in the unsettling presence of his mobile phone, which was still connected to a wall socket. “The death seems to be acute heart failure,” said Lieutenant Colonel Theeraphat Sanjai. The 21 year old, a skilled free diver and master diver, left for Thailand on November 20 last year in high spirits, obtaining two diving qualifications shortly after his arrival, said Robby’s mother. “He was in a really good place mentally and his normal self.” Continues at https://thethaiger.com/news/national/irish-divers-fate-revealed-on-thailands-death-island-video

From The Thaiger The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the dangers of Pot K, a vape liquid mixed with ketamine, which can be fatal. Selling this substance can lead to a prison sentence of up to 15 years and a fine of 1.5 million baht. This illegal product has become prevalent among nightlife enthusiasts. Dr Witit Srisuriyachayakul, Deputy Secretary General of the FDA, revealed yesterday, January 15 that police in Makkasan had arrested individuals involved in selling Pot K, which contains ketamine, a Schedule 2 controlled substance. This substance is widely circulated through online platforms and distributed to nightclubs in Bangkok. Ketamine, primarily used medically as an anaesthetic and pain reliever, is being misused for its hallucinogenic effects. Prolonged use can lead to psychosis. High doses of ketamine can cause vomiting, seizures, brain and muscle oxygen deprivation, and potentially death. Long-term use results in both physical and psychological drug dependency. In Thailand, ketamine is classified as a Schedule 2 controlled substance. Users face imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both. Production, import, export, sale, or possession without permission carries a penalty of up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to 700,000 baht.

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon A packed meeting of Pattaya City Expat Club heard updates about the controversial Thai Revenue Department policy as regards overseas income transmitted to Thailand. The two invited representatives of American International Tax Advisers Co. were director Thomas Carden and tax attorney Patcha Inkudanonda who was in regular touch with local revenue authorities. Patcha explained that some expats were not required to obtain a Thai tax identification number or fill in a tax return. These were foreigners present in Thailand for less than 180 days in the calendar year 2024, those who had not transmitted cash from abroad, those who had transferred only income they had earned up to 31 December 2023 and holders of the 10-year Long Term Residence (LTR) Visa. For other expats the general advice was to obtain a tax number and submit a tax return by the end of March 2025. There was no need to attach documentation, but she reminded the meeting that all foreign income should be totalled, though declaration did not automatically mean liability to pay tax. In breaking news, the Thai Revenue Department had very recently clarified that use of a foreign credit card to obtain Thai baht was now included in the definition of income. Answering questions, Mr Carden said that the Thai government had promised to honor double taxation treaties with 61 countries. However, these were all unique and could not be used as some kind of blanket immunity. He suggested that an expat should refer to the applicable terms in the submitted tax form by way of a caveat or alert. Mr Carden several times stressed that the government was deliberately widening the income tax base, but accepted that small fish were being caught in the net designed for bigger ones, especially rich Thais. Other questioners asked for clarification about investment transfers. For example, was an overseas transfer to purchase a Thai condominium necessarily taxable? Mr Carden said the matter had not yet been fully clarified. He also admitted that use of foreign credit cards to purchase goods in Thailand was another awkward subject and one difficult to monitor by tax authorities. It was obvious, said Mr Carden, that the Thai Revenue Department was making some rulings as the policy moved along. Some members wondered how the Revenue would track the finances of so many individuals. Patcha pointed to the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes which basically meant that international banking details would be available if the Thai authorities made the request. Both she and Mr Carden were concerned that expats choosing to ignore the entire issue now could be subject to audit later. At that point, they would need to justify non-filing. The key takeaway point from the meeting was to retain records of all financial transactions involving foreign cash. https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-expats-receive-updates-on-overseas-remittances-and-income-tax-487289

When I made my first post-covid trip (when you needed health insurance policy to gain admission), I brought coverage . When I needed it for visit to BCH ER for dehydration issue, they informed me policy only good at public hospitals. Probably written someplace in fine print. There were some scandals with those companies (some declared bankruptcy) that later emerged in local media. I just looked at it as just a hump I had to jump thrugh through in order to get back and was not surprised.