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The last visible remains of Dick's cafe before partition went up....

From Bloomberg News (16 Mar..) Thai Growth Will Ride Out Any Election Unrest Once the dust settles, attention will return to completing a key economic project that’s already attracted billions of dollars in foreign investment. Thailand’s long-delayed elections to be held on March 24 have stirred concern among some analysts that we will see a fresh round of protests and social unrest. Investors should look past any temporary disruption. Whatever the result, Thai leaders will move forward with a landmark project that will support growth in what has been one of the most economically stable countries in Southeast Asia for the past two decades. First, a little background: In May 2014, the Royal Thai Armed Forces initiated a successful coup, leading to the impeachment of then-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, the dissolution of the senate and government, and the repeal of the Thai constitution. Since then, the military-backed National Council of Peace and Order has ruled the country, with retired General Prayuth Chan-Ocha serving as prime minister. Though the junta regularly detained dissidents and has squashed most free speech, the economy grew at a decent clip between 2014 and 2018. Data from last year indicate that gross domestic product rose by about 4 percent, much of that fueled by tourism and manufacturing. Tourism alone represents almost one-fifth of the economy, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand predicting more than 40 million international tourists will flock to the country this year. That said, poverty and widespread corruption remain pressing issues. Though Thailand’s overall poverty level has dropped dramatically in the past two decades, to less than 7 percent of the population in 2017 from 21 percent in 2000, Unicef estimates that more than seven million people, mostly in rural areas, live on less than $88 per month. And while the junta has promised plenty of initiatives to combat political corruption, the simple fact is that graft exists at virtually every level of government. The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce estimates that most businesses pay between 25 percent and 40 percent of contract values under the table to politicians and bureaucrats to secure work and get projects moving, according to the Bangkok Post. In other words, bribes are factored into the cost of doing business in Thailand. Don’t expect that to change after the election. After the political dust settles, the focus will be on building the Eastern Economic Corridor, or EEC. In development for the past 30 years, the sweeping and ambitious project encompasses roughly 5,000 square miles between the provinces of Chonburi, Rayong and Chachoengsao, and is Thailand’s hub for export-oriented industries. The $54 billion project has a 2021 completion deadline. The current government is ramping up foreign and domestic investment in transportation infrastructure; developing business and innovation hubs; promoting tourism; and creating so-called “smart” cities. The EEC has proven mighty attractive to overseas investors, with more than $9 billion in pledged foreign investment as of the start of last year, according to Thailand’s Board of Investment. Hundreds of projects in everything from agriculture to robotics are finding eager supporters, mostly from Japan, Singapore, the U.S. and China. Continues with chart and video https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2019-03-16/thailand-s-economic-growth-will-survive-any-election-unrest?srnd=premium-middle-east

From Bloomberg News (12 Mar.) Thailand’s Tourism Industry Getting Top Share of LGBT Spending Thailand is advancing same-sex partnership legislation. And one of the nation’s biggest industries, tourism, is paying close attention. Amid an election campaign, a measure that would give gay and lesbian couples more rights -- yet doesn’t legalize same-sex marriage -- was approved by the Cabinet and was headed to Parliament. Though the session ended before the bill became law, the tourism industry is using the occasion to actively promote Thailand as an LGBT-friendly destination. “Thailand already has products and offerings catered to this market, and now our focus will be how we can better serve them,” Srisuda Wanapinyosak, a deputy governor for the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said in an interview. This year the Tourism Authority will host an LGBT travel symposium and plans more participation in pride parades in such cities as New York and Tel Aviv. Last month, it released a promotional video featuring LGBT travelers, including well-known lesbian bloggersRoxanne Weijer and Maartje Hensen. At a Madrid tourism event in January, the industry had a booth for the first time promoting Thailand specifically to gay and lesbian travelers. The country’s tourism industry represents about one-fifth of the economy and is growing at a faster pace than other sectors. The LGBT market has become key to the industry’s fortunes. According to the investment firm LGBT Capital, tourism revenue from that community contributes 1.15 percent to Thailand’s economy, a greater share than any other destination. Continues with photo https://www.bloomberg.com/amp/news/articles/2019-03-12/thailand-s-tourism-industry-looks-to-cash-in-on-same-sex-law

From CNN (14 Mar.) The world's longest passenger plane is here -- the Boeing 777X The longest passenger jetliner in the world just made its debut. On March 13, the very first Boeing 777X was presented to company employees, inside the airframer's main wide-body manufacturing facility in Everett, Washington. Boeing had planned to unveil the jetliner on Wednesday, but delayed the debut following the crash of its aircraft in Ethiopia. The event was simplified to respect the recent loss of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, a Boeing 737 MAX 8. At 252 feet, the 777X is longer than its predecessor, the 777-300ER, and the super-stretched Airbus A340-600. It'll even be longer by a nose than the current record-holder, the 747-8, the latest version of Boeing's own "Queen of the Skies" whose aviation-changing ancestor flew 50 years ago. With its maiden test flight expected later this spring, the 777-9 is the larger of the two 777X models that make up Boeing's jetliner program. continues with photos http://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/boeing-777x-what-you-need-to-know/index.html

Returning to the topic, a record voter turnout is predicted. From Bangkok Post (14 Mar.) The March 24 election could see an unprecedented voter turnout, according the King Prajadhipok's Institute (KPI). The institute found almost 95.9% of people who responded to its latest survey, carried from March 7-10, said they intend to vote. It is the fifth poll-related survey the KPI has conducted with 1,540 respondents nationwide, according to KPI secretary-general Wutthisan Tanchai. https://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1644260/voter-turnout-tipped-to-hit-new-high

From Bangkok Post (14 Mar.) A new direct flight from Bangkok makes Nha Trang and the lesser developed Cam Ranh accessible for Thais. Unlike Hanoi, Sapa, Danang, Hue, Hoi An, Dalat, Mui Ne and Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang (pronounced ya jang) is not a familiar name for Thai travellers. But with a direct air link between Bangkok and this Vietnamese city, recently introduced by Bangkok Airways and soon to be followed suit by another airline, that is about to change. Continues with photos https://www.bangkokpost.com/news/asean/1644168/vietnams-up-and-coming-destinations

Agree.

OMG, Witty. A travel tip of the first order: take the slow train and save.

I don’t think English is his first language. Thais overlook our mangled attempts at their language if we even go as far as to try to speak it. And they don’t call it gogglegook.

Some possible reasons he took a taxi: 1. He wanted ro 2. He chose to spend his money for this particular type of serviice Fellow Westerners frequently spend their money on things I deem frivolous: organic products, cigarettes, big cars. But it’s their money to do what they wish with it. My rationale doesn’t count. Yes, he could have made othe choices but its his time and his money.

Brexit makes the Thai political system look downright rational.

The following article from Singapore-baes Channel News Asia presents an objective and comprehensive take on the elections without touching on controversial topics. From Channel News Asia (12 Mar. 12) For the first time in nearly five years, Thailand will leave the military rule for democracy. Here is what you need to know about the Thai election on Mar 24 and the political game that would determine its future. BANGKOK: The upcoming election in Thailand is set to be one of the most complicated votes in the country’s history, with the final outcome of who will form the next government dependent on a series of factors. On a very simple level, though, the vote on Mar 24 will be the first general election under the new Constitution of 2017. It should mark a transition towards re-establishing a democratically elected government after nearly five years of rule by a military regime which took power through a coup in 2014. However, while some people believe the upcoming election will restore democracy, others believe there is scope for a subtler shift that could see the powerful military maintain its grip on Thai politics. “It’s not a regular vote under democratic rules but a means for regime change, where the military rule is reborn to continue its power,” said political scientist Dr Pitch Pongsawat from Bangkok’s Chulalongkorn University. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-election-democracy-after-military-rule-11280022

My intent is not to derail the thread but the many posts jostled my memory back to 1970’s San Francisco when the Campus theater was sort of a crude Moonlight of its day. Rick Donovan is the model I recall best. William Higgins made him one of the top stars of his well-done films. Rick appeared from time to time as did other headliners of the day. He’d do some stuff on stage before walking down the isle to allow guests to deposit bills and inspect the merchandise that was the talk of the town. It was before internet and word about places like this came via word of mouth and guides like Spartacus. A different era to be sure but Campus earned all the hype Moonlight does today.

If you plan to return to Thailand you may find that it’s a good practice to retain sufficient local currency to cover your anticipated spending on first night of next trip. Once less hassle on arrival when you have other priorities. If you plan to use travelers checks, fewer banks seem to be accepting them. In Silom Complex, Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) still does but the agent specified American Express. Consistently i find that SuperRich provides the best currency exchange rate. The location on Silom (near Arena masssage) May be slightly better than Silom Complex location but probably not worth going out of your way on a steamy day. Silom Complex branch closes at 8p.m. Also note that after about 9p..m., the rates at independent currency exchange booths along Silom and Surawong become less favorable.

This Netflix series isn’t the only film project in the works about the saga. One, “the Cave,” was shot last year and is now in post production. Here’s a BBC article with photos of the filming. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-46644840 Additionally, National Geographic was said to be working on a documentary (“One Day in September”) about the rescue. An older documentary made by an Australian network can be found in an August, 2018, post adove. While researching this topic, a few things seem evident: first, multiple projects are involved; second, we are aware of only tidbits of information about the precise contract terms and compensation packages agreed to by the parties involved. But it seems clear that these brave boys who captured our imagination for so many days have had the course of their lives irrevocably altered both historically and financially. in the efforts I made to learn more about these productions I didn’t came across any mention that the boys were misrepresented, taken advantage of or were victims of a weak negotiating position. My research wasn’t exhaustive and would hope that anyone who finds such evidence would post the details in this thread. What separates the Netflix production is that it involves a series. Given the company’s global presence and huge subscriber base, the potential for success is heightened. Here’s an article from the film from Variety that describes the Netflix project. https://variety.com/2019/digital/asia/thai-cave-rescue-series-netflix-sk-global-1203158133/

If the boys accept the 3 million baht each, they accept the terms of their contract. Not really different than anyone who signs a contract. If you don’t like the terms and compensation, you reject the offer.

Can confirm that what was formerly known as priority lane is now called fast track operated by contractor. I believe it accommodates all carriers that subscribe to it. The fast track pass card you are given by airline is now collected before you are admitted to immigration agent queues. Otherwise, it seemed to function as old system. You can also pre-pay for service if you don’t get it as perk. https://bangkokfasttrack.com/

From The Nation (5 Mar.) Krungsri first bank in Thailand to use facial recognition tech to open accounts Krungsri (Bank of Ayudhya) has introduced facial recognition through electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) technology for verifying the identities of people as they open a deposit account. Under the Bank of Thailand’s regulatory sandbox, the technology enables an upgrade of the bank’s verification process and accuracy toward international standards. Now available for customers at Krungsri branches, the facial recognition for e-KYC will also be deployed when customers open their passbook via mobile application by the end of the second quarter. The breakthrough technology reflects the bank’s commitment as a leader in digital banking and innovation development for ultimate customer satisfaction, said Phonganant Thanattrai, Krungsri head of retail banking and distribution group. The identity proofing process using facial comparison will enhance the security of identity verification, reduce risk of mistakes in the proofing process, and prevent identity theft and fraudulent transactions, while maintaining a convenient and speedy process for account opening, said Phonganant. In its initial state, the facial recognition technology will be adopted when customers open a deposit account by matching the cardholder’s face to the photo on their citizen ID card as presented at the branch. Krungsri staff will use the comparison result to when considering allowing a passbook account to be opened. Meanwhile, Krungsri is planning extensive use of facial recognition technology for opening an account via a mobile application within the second quarter of 2019, Phonganant said. http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/Corporate/30365225

From Khaosod English (7 Mar.) THAI CAVE RESCUE TO GET NETFLIX SERIES BANGKOK — Last year’s dramatic cave rescue operation in northern Thailand is going to be made into a Netflix Original series, Thai officials said Thursday. The series will be produced by SK Global Entertainment, which has been granted lifetime exclusive rights to direct contact with the 13 members of the Wild Boars football team, according to government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipak. The 12 boys and coach were trapped nearly two weeks in the Chiang Rai province cave before their miraculous rescue. Lt. Gen. Werachon said the 13 Wild Boars would earn about 3 million baht each from the production, with some money going to organizations and foundations who were involved in the rescue operation. Sirisak Kotpatcharin, spokesman for the company set up to manage media rights for the Wild Boars story, said the boys and the coach will no longer be allowed to give interviews about their experience without the company’s permission. http://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2019/03/07/thai-cave-rescue-to-get-netflix-series-officials/

From Khaosod English (7 Mar.) BANGKOK — Each year calls to ban alcohol during Thai New Year’s festive and watery days grow louder, and this year health officials say they’re want to make it a reality. The Department of Disease Control said it will ask the government to suspend booze sales on April 13, the first of the three-day New Year’s festival known as Songkran. Officials said the measure would help reduce deaths caused by drunk driving during the holidays. Department deputy director Kajornsak Kaeojaras told reporters the agency will formally submit the proposal to the cabinet next week. The department first approved the idea in February. Drunk driving was cited as the second leading cause of Songkran traffic accidents last year, after speeding. Kajornsak said most DUI cases took place April 13, the first day of the festival. He dismissed concerns the measure could damage the economy, which depends heavily on tourists and revelers. “The economy doesn’t rely on a single day,” Kajornsak said. Reactions on social media were mixed. Many criticized the policy as impractical, while others agreed it would lessen alcohol-fueled accidents on Songkran. “At least it’s better than doing nothing,” Chana Pratarnporn wrote. “Some people may say vendors can still sell to them in secret, but at least it will make it difficult to drink … the best way is to adjust drinkers’ habits.” “The most important thing is their sense of responsibility. When they drink, they shouldn’t drive at all. This is the best way, but I also agree that this policy will reduce some risks,” Chalatorn Sirisapya wrote. Thitipong Pungyam said it would “destroy the economy and tourism.” “Maybe [the government] should see it this way: People have been exhausting themselves with work all year round. They need to relax with their friends and families, too.” Thitipong wrote in reply to an online news thread fielding opinions on the proposal. The authorities have already implemented anti-booze measures during Songkran, such as banning sales of alcohol where revelers gather for water fights. Such prohibitions are widely ignored and little enforced each year. It is also unclear whether the government will approve. In 2014, junta chairman Prayuth Chan-ocha rejected a proposal by the same department to ban booze sales during all of the New Year holidays.4 http://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2019/03/07/govt-weighs-songkran-booze-ban/

Quickest way to get in and out of Swampy is to learn to travel light. You avoid one of the biggest time eaters if you don’t check bags. It’s not like you have to have a large range of clothes for different occasions. You can wash stuff in your room and it will dry overnight. Or use a laundry. If you find yourself with more possessions on the return trip than you brought in, you can always buy an inexpensive bag and check it on the way home when the stress of gettting downtown isn’t a factor.

Forget the whole transaction. There are too many good guys on offer in the big mango to warrant drawn out negotiations. Never lose sight of the rule: distance lends enchantment.

Tundra88.... Introductory post... Sounds like a poster who knows a bit about how a “hustle” works.

And this malady is not uncommon among non-Thais: “How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take that splinter out of your eye,' when all the while you yourself do not see the beam in your own eye?’ “ I don’t give any credence to political correctness, either. But I don’t think this is a matter of PC attitudes. I believe it’s more a matter of simply being open to not judging Thais—or other SE Asians—by the same scale we might employ at home. Have you been unlucky? It certainly seems possible that your expectations and methods have not met with a hell of a lot of success. You’re entitled to rationalize your experiences in any manner you choose. But you shouldn’t be surprised when others stress very different views.

From News in Flight (4 Mar.) Thai Airways reported a massive loss of 11.6 billion baht (USD 365 million) for FY2018 Thailand’s state-owned flagship carrier, Thai Airways reported a massive net loss of 11.6 billion baht (USD 365 million) for FY2018, spiked by higher oil prices and competition. The losses are up 552% from previous years loss of 2.1 billion baht (USD66 million). Airline’s operating income rose 3.9% year-over-year as it still operates 747s and fly only wide-body aircraft, coupled with higher oil prices. Thai Airways’s market share has been snatched away by Gulf carriers that offer better products and excellent fares in middle east to Bangkok routes. Airline also failed to refurbish its business class to attract many business class travellers while many other airlines offer great comfort flying for business travellers. In 2018, the 5t5 took delivery of five new planes and retired three to bring their fleet size to 103 planes. http://newsinflight.com/2019/03/04/thai-airways-reported-a-massive-loss-of-11-6-billion-baht-usd-365-million-for-