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+ 1 Readers who've been following Thai public education will not be surprised. And judging by the Myanmar guys who work Dragon and Koi, I'd put Myanmar ahead of Thailand.

From Khaosod English KOH SAMUI — A 30-year-old British man died while still wearing Muay Thai shorts on Koh Samui island in Surat Thani province. Police officers from Bo Phut Police Station investigated the incident at Thai International Hospital shortly after midnight on March 29. The deceased was identified as Mr. Joseph, according to Nantawat Chukaew, the boxing trainer who provided additional details. On March 28, around 9:30 PM, Joseph participated in his first-ever boxing match at the Inter Samui boxing stadium. During the third round, he was kicked in the right side of his rib cage, prompting the referee to stop the fight. After the match ended, the deceased walked off the ring on his own and appeared normal, even removing his gloves as usual. However, while unwrapping his hand bandages, he began experiencing muscle tension, labored breathing, and eye rolling, though without seizures. His trainer brought him to the front of the stage. At that time, Joseph was still conscious, but approximately five minutes later, he collapsed and his heart stopped beating. While waiting for the rescue foundation ambulance, the boxing trainer performed initial cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Upon arrival at Thai International Hospital, medical staff continued CPR for about an hour before the hospital doctor pronounced him dead at 11:00 PM. Doctors at Koh Samui Hospital have conducted an autopsy, while police officers will coordinate with the British Embassy to notify the deceased’s relatives. https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2025/03/29/british-man-dies-after-first-muay-thai-fight-in-koh-samui/

From The Nation While still in its developmental stages, this ambitious project already offers a captivating glimpse into the nation's rich artistic heritage, showcasing a stunning array of masterpieces that speak volumes about Lao culture, spirituality and history. Officially opened on January 5 in Nonsa-at Village, Xaythany District, the museum is a significant undertaking, spanning 80 hectares and aiming to become a major cultural landmark. The vision for this grand institution was conceived by Phisith Sayathith, who sought to create a space that blends traditional and modern artistry, inspiring unity and pride. The complex currently features several distinct zones including an arts and culture exhibition hall, an observation hall, and a multi-purpose building. Even with ongoing construction, the scale and ambition of the project are immediately apparent. But what sets this museum apart is its dedication to showcasing the depth and breadth of Lao artistry. The art of this small, landlocked nation, as explained at the museum, is deeply rooted in the country's rich cultural and spiritual traditions, offering an expressive reflection of its history, religion and environment. This project evolved from a 2018 art exhibition, gaining support from the Lao government and Vientiane Capital Administration to become the hub for cultural preservation, artistic exploration and tourism it is today. Continues with video https://www.nationthailand.com/life/travel/40048040

From The Nation 77 mild aftershocks reported Continues with interactive video presentation https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40048017

From Pattaya News Earthquake Releases Energy Equivalent to 334 Atomic Bombs, Geologist Warns of Prolonged Aftershocks A 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on Friday has unleashed energy equivalent to 334 atomic bombs, according to a prominent geologist. The quake, centered near the country’s second-largest city of Mandalay, has left a trail of destruction across Myanmar and neighboring Thailand, with experts now cautioning that aftershocks could rattle the region for another two to three months. Dr. Jess Phoenix, a geologist interviewed by international media, explained that the earthquake’s energy release was comparable to hundreds of Hiroshima-sized nuclear explosions, underscoring its catastrophic potential. “This was a massive event, driven by the ongoing collision of the Indian tectonic plate with the Eurasian plate beneath Myanmar,” Phoenix said. “The region’s tectonic activity isn’t done yet—aftershocks are likely to continue, posing ongoing risks.” The earthquake, which hit just before 1:20 p.m. local time on March 28, was followed just 12 minutes later by a significant 6.4-magnitude aftershock, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Since then, at least 14 additional aftershocks have been recorded in Myanmar, with more felt across Thailand. The USGS estimates that the initial rupture extended up to 500 kilometers along the Sagaing Fault, a major tectonic boundary running north-south through Myanmar. Mandalay and the capital, Naypyidaw, have reported widespread damage, with collapsed buildings, buckled roads, and overwhelmed hospitals. A bridge over the Irrawaddy River near Mandalay has also collapsed, complicating rescue efforts. Experts attribute the region’s vulnerability to its position along the Sagaing Fault, where the Indian Plate slides past the Burma microplate at a rate of 11 to 18 millimeters per year. “This strike-slip fault can produce earthquakes up to magnitude 8, and we’ve seen this kind of destruction before,” said Dr. Roberto Gentile, an earthquake risk expert from University College London. He noted historical precedents, such as a 7.7-magnitude quake in 1946, and warned that the current event’s shallow depth—about 10 kilometers—amplified its surface impact. The prolonged aftershock warning stems from the fault’s ongoing stress adjustments. “Aftershocks could persist for weeks or even months as the earth settles,” Gentile added. “We’ve already seen a significant one, and more are expected, which could further threaten weakened structures.” The USGS has not yet released an operational aftershock forecast for this event, but similar seismic sequences suggest a tapering series of tremors, potentially including some as strong as magnitude 6 or higher. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/29/powerful-myanmar-earthquake-releases-energy-equivalent-to-334-atomic-bombs-geologist-warns-of-prolonged-aftershocks/

From Pattaya Mail Passengers, both Thai and foreign, were still stranded at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan at 00:20 on March 29, following the afternoon earthquake. Long lines were seen at the taxi queue ticketing area, as there were not enough taxis available to accommodate the large number of travelers. Airport officials provided bottled water to passengers waiting for extended periods. Additionally, the Grab ride-hailing area was also overcrowded, with many passengers opting to find nearby accommodations due to the lack of transportation options. The earthquake had caused significant disruptions to transportation in Bangkok, with BTS and MRT services temporarily halted, and heavy traffic congestion in several areas, leaving many unable to return to their accommodations. https://www.pattayamail.com/news/suvarnabhumi-airport-overcrowded-as-tourists-stranded-due-to-taxi-shortage-after-earthquake-495776

I'd never say never, but it would be counter productive to book a top if you want oral. There's only one shop that I'm aware of where the masseurs are flexible in that regard: Phoenix in Saphan Kwai. There well may be other shops I'm not familiar with. Perhaps other nembers will join the conversation..

How many can say that we have a line waiting on us.🙂

Many of the building construction jobs.in Bangkok are held by migrant workers from Myanmar.

From Pattaya News Rescue Operations Intensify at Collapsed Bangkok Skyscraper Rescue operations are underway with urgency at the site of a collapsed 30-storey skyscraper in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, following a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar earlier today. The tremor, centered near Mandalay, reverberated across Southeast Asia, causing widespread panic and structural damage in the Thai capital, which has been declared a disaster area. The under-construction building, intended to house the Office of the Auditor General, crumbled into a massive pile of rubble and twisted metal at approximately 1:20 PM local time, trapping dozens of construction workers. As of the latest reports, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has confirmed that three (some other reports have said four) workers have been killed, with estimates of 81 to 90 individuals still missing beneath the debris. Rescue teams have so far pulled multiple survivors from the wreckage, offering a glimmer of hope amid the chaos. “The situation is unprecedented in Bangkok’s history,” Wechayachai stated during a press briefing at the site earlier this evening. “We are mobilizing all available resources—military personnel, emergency responders, and heavy equipment—to search for survivors. Time is critical.” The Thai military, under orders from Army Commander-in-Chief General Pana Claewplodtook, has deployed drones to assess the damage and assist in locating trapped individuals. However, unstable rubble and downed power lines are hampering efforts, with rescuers proceeding cautiously to avoid further collapses. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt reported that the quake caused damage to multiple high-rise buildings across the city, with inspections ongoing to assess structural integrity. “This is a disaster unlike anything we’ve seen in the past century,” Sittipunt said, noting that the city’s soft, muddy terrain may have amplified the quake’s impact. The Stock Exchange of Thailand suspended trading, and the city’s elevated transit and subway systems remain shut down as authorities brace for potential aftershocks. Many businesses across the city shut as well for the evening and traffic was in chaos as we reported here. Eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of the collapse. Video footage circulating online shows the skyscraper, topped with a crane, toppling into a cloud of dust as onlookers screamed and fled. “It happened so fast,” said a nearby vendor at Chatuchak Market. “One moment it was standing, the next it was gone, and the air was thick with dust.” Workers at the site were seen scrambling to escape as the structure gave way, with an estimated 100 people present at the time of the incident. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/28/rescue-operations-intensify-at-collapsed-bangkok-skyscraper-amid-myanmar-earthquake-aftermath/

As others have said, what's needed is more information on what's happening. I heartened to know that you and others in Bangkok were not injured.

It obviously gives you much pleasure to point out what you believe what others could have done better (aka, nitpicking). I'm sure you're perfect in all your posts. Have a wonderful day, Peter!

I have a first-hand report that Freshboy is open tonight. Goodboy, Hotmale and Atlas I'm told also appear to be open for business. Foodland is closed at this point. 764858238.389830.mp4

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon Myanmar young men, deported from Thailand, will likely be conscripted into the junta’s army. The arrest in Pattaya earlier this week of 52 Myanmar nationals without work authorization papers highlights yet again the acute labor crunch. Pattaya employers cannot fill all the jobs with Thais alone and need many tens of thousands of guest workers from neighboring countries and Myanmar in particular. The main gaps currently are in the hotel and food industries as Pattaya prepares for a record-breaking Songkran, but the Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry also points of shortages in the construction sector as the building boom continues. According to the real estate research center AREA, the Chonburi housing market is worth more than any other province in Thailand. But Myanmar nationals have their stern critics in Pattaya and elsewhere. Khaosod reports that xenophobia and anti-Burmese sentiment is spreading in Thailand through social media. On Facebook, Paiboon Arunthanawanich claims that the medical budget has to be shared with aliens and that Myanmars are taking away Thai jobs. Other Facebook critics complain that Thai budgets should be spent only on Thai citizens and write enthusiastically about president Trump’s immigration policies in USA. But, as Khaosod stresses, these sentiments have lost sight of the fact that low-paying manual jobs are no longer attractive to Thais whose actual unemployment rate is under one percent, mostly graduates looking for their first job. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattayas-love-hate-relationship-with-illegal-myanmar-workers-495479

The moderator, in the past, advised members not to worry about where they post. You placed your post in an entirely proper place as I did mine. There are no hard rules that I'm aware of except when it comes to photos. This forum wouldn't exist if not for posters like yourself. Keep posting and don't worry. That's what's important.

FYI, I did do a quick check, scanning for "eathquake" in the first few words of recent posts elsewhere. Since it appeared at end of subject I missed it entirely. So I don't agree with your rush to judgement, Peter. We're all unpaid contributors here and we're all going to make posts sooner or later that we could have done better. This is an unedited forum and duplicate posts are not uncommon.

I didn't merely duplicate @bkkmfj2648; I posted before I noticed his post. I was relating what my guy had told me about his experience during the quake.

They assume that you are not looking for a bottom and are prepared to fulfill their role as top. However, many customers will select a top because they're looking for a masculine masseur but don't necessarily want to be fucked. For example, a customer looking to provide oral sex will usually take a top over a bottom. A lot can happen once the door closes.

Just spoke with my guy in Bangkok. He was in his apartment near Quarter Hotel on Soi Tarntawan when his building began to shake strongly. On the way out he and another resident helped remove an 88-year-old man and got him outside. He now says many businesses are closing around Silom. Has not felt any aftershocks yet. From the Nation A building under construction in the Chatuchak district has collapsed following a significant earthquake, trapping 43 workers, according to the National Institute for Emergency Medicine. Seven workers managed to escape the site, and the Narenthorn Emergency Medical Services Center, along with its rescue network, has been dispatched to provide immediate assistance. In response to the incident, Army Spokesperson Major General Winthai Suvaree announced that Army Commander-in-Chief General Pana Claewplodtook has ordered the immediate activation of the Army Disaster Relief Center for public assistance. Continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40047984

From Pattaya News Thailand Considers Shortening Visa Extension Period for Chinese Tourists Bangkok– The Tourism and Sports Ministry of Thailand is reportedly considering a change to its visa policy for Chinese visitors, one of the country’s largest tourist demographics. According to sources within the ministry, the current 90-day visa extension period could be slashed to just 30 days, aligning it more closely with the average length of stay for travelers from China. This comes as Thailand was reportedly considering an overall proposal to reduce visa exemption lengths in general, as we discussed here at TPN media. The proposed adjustment aims to streamline immigration processes and better reflect the travel patterns of Chinese tourists, say Thai officials. In 2019, before the global pandemic disrupted international travel, Chinese visitors accounted for over 11 million arrivals, making up nearly 27% of Thailand’s total 39.8 million tourists that year, according to data from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. While numbers dropped sharply during the COVID-19 years, the recovery has been robust, with 2024 seeing a resurgence of Chinese travelers thanks to relaxed visa policies and targeted marketing campaigns. A ministry spokesperson explained that the change is under consideration following observations that most Chinese tourists spend far less than 90 days in the country. “Our data shows that the average stay for Chinese visitors is typically between two to three weeks,” the spokesperson said. “Reducing the extension period to 30 days would better match their travel behavior while maintaining Thailand’s appeal as a flexible and welcoming destination.” Continues at https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/28/thailand-considers-shortening-visa-extension-period-for-chinese-tourists/

I'm often told by boys that I'm handsome and no one tips me.

From Khaosod English Officers arrest male waiters, known as "bar hosts," who served and entertained female customers at Home Karaoke, described as a women-only hostess lounge in Bangkok on March 26, 2025 BANGKOK — Immigration authorities arrested 57 foreign nationals, both women and men, working illegally and a Thai employer during coordinated raids on 10 karaoke establishments across Bangkok late Tuesday night. The operation, led by Immigration Bureau 1 Commander Police Major General Prasart Khemaprasit, targeted venues in three main areas known for inexpensive karaoke bars: Klongtoei, Romklao, and Thonburi. According to officials, the raids are part of a broader enforcement initiative ordered by Immigration Bureau Commissioner Police Lieutenant General Phanumas Boonyalak to crack down on illegal foreign workers and visa overstayers throughout Thailand. More than 40 immigration officers participated in the late-night operation on March 25. Authorities described most establishments as small and dimly lit, with some featuring private VIP rooms equipped with stages and karaoke equipment. Among the raided venues was Home Karaoke, described as a women-only hostess lounge where male waiters served and entertained female customers. Police Colonel Rapeepat Utsaha, Deputy Commander of Immigration Division 1, stated that according to current investigation data, officers have arrested 53 Laotian nationals, 4 Vietnamese nationals, and 1 Thai employer charged with hiring foreign workers without work permits, totaling 58 people. Officials report that 51 suspects had entered Thailand legally with passport documentation and received 60-day visa exemptions but failed to obtain proper work permits.Two Laotian nationals were found to have overstayed their visas, while five others had no passport documentation at all. The Immigration Bureau has charged the suspects variously with working without permits, visa overstay, and illegal entry, according to their respective violations. https://www.gayguides.com/forum/5-the-beer-bar/?do=add

From The Nation Indonesia’s economy is under significant pressure as the rupiah hits a 27-year low, and the Jakarta Stock Exchange Composite Index plunges 7.1%—its steepest drop in 14 years. These signals may point to deeper structural issues in the country’s economic and political landscape. Bhima Yudhistira Adhinegara, Director of the Jakarta-based Center of Economic and Law Studies, warns that the rupiah’s depreciation reflects market distrust toward President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership and economic policies, including the establishment of the Danantara sovereign wealth fund. Indonesia was once a top investment destination in the region, but last year, it lost its appeal among global investors at an alarming rate. Under President Prabowo Subianto, the government has made steep budget cuts across critical sectors, such as higher education funding slashed by 39%, healthcare spending reduced by 18.5% and public infrastructure projects cut by a staggering 73% As the global economy slows down, these cuts are not seen as strategic adjustments but rather as confidence-shaking measures that erode public trust, heighten economic concerns, and trigger capital outflows from Indonesia. President Prabowo’s “populist” policies have become an increasing concern regarding economic policy stability. His universal free school lunch program, expected to cost a massive 950 billion baht per year, risks pushing Indonesia’s budget deficit beyond the legally mandated 3% of GDP. In February, Indonesia established Danantara Indonesia, a sovereign wealth fund consolidating several state-owned enterprises, and announced its advisory board members, including former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, billionaire Ray Dalio, and investor Chapman Taylor. Initially seen as an ambitious move, the Danantara fund is now being regarded as a potential “financial time bomb” that could destabilize the economy. Critics have raised concerns over its management and transparency, suggesting that investment decisions might be driven more by political than economic factors. With rising budgetary demands from both Danantara and Prabowo’s populist policies, Indonesia may face increased fiscal burdens, including a widening budget deficit. Indonesia was once one of the most attractive markets in the region, but last year, it rapidly lost its appeal among global investors. President Prabowo’s administration has made deep budget cuts across essential sectors, slashing higher education funding by 39%, healthcare spending by 18.5%, and public infrastructure and utilities projects by 73%. Continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/news/world/40047953

From Pattaya Mail A video clip was shared by a tourist, capturing a violent altercation that occurred at Jomtien Beach, near the Pattaya Police Station, Dongtan Branch at approximately 11:06 PM on March 25. The video, lasting about 4 minutes, shows a confrontation between a foreign tourist and two Thai men, aged between 25 and 30 years. The foreign tourist, who appeared to be intoxicated, began confronting the two Thais and forced them to sit down. He then proceeded to choke and slap both individuals in the face, making loud slapping sounds. Despite this, the two Thai men remained passive and did not retaliate. The situation escalated when another Thai man, a teenager, intervened and asked why the foreign tourist was assaulting the others. This led to a scuffle where the Thai man, unable to defend himself, threw a beer bottle at the foreigner. The situation quickly became chaotic, with people around attempting to break up the fight. After the police arrived to intervene, no formal complaints were filed, and the Thai man involved, identified as Mr. Ball, a 32-year-old man who rents beach mats to tourists, stated that he had been drinking and was unsure what had triggered the foreigner’s aggression. Mr. Ball explained that he tried to stay calm and avoid conflict, having recently been released from prison. He admitted that the foreign tourist slapped him first, and although he tolerated it at first, he eventually could not endure the situation any longer, leading to the physical confrontation. Mr. Ball further expressed that some tourists may view Thai people negatively, but he only wanted to make an honest living by renting mats on the beach. He emphasized that although tourists may feel safe in Pattaya, they should not be aggressive, as retaliation could lead to serious consequences. He added that he did not file a complaint, though he suspected the foreigner may have suffered a head injury. In the aftermath, the scene was calm, with many tourists still enjoying the beach. Among the locals, however, the incident was already a hot topic. A man named Ball, who was one of the individuals involved, spoke to the press about the confrontation. Ball explained that he had been calmly sitting, drinking with his mat rental business nearby, when the foreign tourist suddenly attacked him. Despite the surprise assault, Ball kept his composure, not wanting to escalate the situation, as he had recently finished serving a sentence and hoped for a fresh start. However, the provocations grew too much to bear, and the fight broke out. Ball made it clear that he didn’t want to press charges, but he did express frustration at how foreigners sometimes behave when they feel they can act without consequences. “Some tourists might not know the reality of how things work here,” he said. “Not all foreigners have good manners. When they are bigger and drunk, they feel entitled to hurt those smaller than them. But the truth is, even the biggest can fall.” Continues with video https://www.pattayamail.com/news/fight-erupts-at-jomtien-beach-igniting-debate-on-respect-and-behavior-between-locals-and-tourists-in-pattaya-495431 ================ Motorcycle taxi driver strikes German tourist with helmet A brutal attack occurred on a German tourist at Pattaya Beach, where a group of men, numbering around 10, savagely beat the victim in the early hours of March 25. The attack was captured on video by a bystander, clearly showing the men punching, kicking, and even using a helmet to strike the tourist. After the victim fell to the ground, the assailants continued to stomp and kick him in the face without mercy. Following the incident, the police quickly apprehended three suspects. However, a new development occurred on March 26, when 55-year-old Somchai (a pseudonym), a motorcycle taxi driver, voluntarily surrendered to Pattaya City Police. Somchai admitted to being one of the attackers seen in the video, though he claimed he did not start the altercation. Somchai explained that the German tourist had been driving erratically, possibly under the influence, and appeared to be looking for trouble with the motorcycle taxi drivers. A group of young men tried to restrain him, but when they were unable to control the tourist, Somchai intervened, using his helmet to subdue him. Somchai stated that he felt compelled to help defend the Thai workers involved in the altercation, but he admitted that his actions went too far and expressed regret for what had transpired. He emphasized that he had no prior relationship with the other attackers and would have preferred to de-escalate the situation. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/news/motorcycle-taxi-driver-strikes-german-tourist-with-helmet-in-pattaya-clash-surrenders-to-police-495412

Will Vinapu take the bait?