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When its first opened the Silom location, Don Don Donki had a small, curtained-off display of sexy lady underwear on ground floor but it was later removed. Think you can still find some of those offerings elsewhere in store but without the naughty enclosure.

Some find uncertainty of the outcome arousing on its own merits. Or to put it in another context, it's the promise of sex. Many athletes are driven by same motivation.

From The BBC The Malaysian government says it has agreed in principle to resume the search for a passenger jet that vanished 10 years ago in one of aviation's greatest mysteries. Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 disappeared in March 2014 while on its way to Beijing from Kuala Lumpur with 239 people on board. Efforts to locate the wreckage of the Boeing 777 have sputtered over the years and hundreds of families of those on board remain haunted by the tragedy. On Friday, Malaysia's transport minister Anthony Loke said the cabinet approved in principle a $70m (£56m) deal with US-based marine exploration firm Ocean Infinity to find the aircraft. Under a "no find, no fee" arrangement, Ocean Infinity will get paid only when the wreckage is found. A 2018 search by Ocean Infinity under similar terms ended unsuccessfully after three months. A multinational effort that cost $150m ended in 2017 after two years of scouring vast waters. While the government has "in principle" accepted Ocean Infinity's offer, Loke said negotiations over specific terms of the deal were still ongoing and would be finalised early next year. The new search will cover a 15,000 sq km patch in the southern Indian Ocean, based on new data that Kuala Lumpur found to be "credible", the minister said. "We hope this time will be positive," Loke said, adding that finding the wreckage would give closure to the families of those on board.

Apparently you exhausted their supply.

From The Thaiger A flight to Thailand turned into a scene of mid-air mayhem, sparking outrage online after a viral video showcased the unruly behaviour of Indian passengers. Shared by Ankit Kumar, a content creator aboard the Thai AirAsia flight, the footage reveals groups of Indian men standing in the aisle, chatting loudly, snacking, and blatantly ignoring air hostesses’ repeated requests to return to their seats. Social media erupted after the video, captioned with the sentiment that such antics “bring a bad name to the country,” amassed over 29,000 likes and millions of views. Many users expressed embarrassment over their compatriots’ conduct. “Money doesn’t get you class!” “We should never defend such behaviour. It tarnishes India’s image globally.” Comments poured in from Indians both at home and abroad, highlighting a pattern of poor manners in public spaces. “I’m half Indian, living in Germany, and this is common—loud talking, blocking train exits, and even playing music on phones without headphones.” Continues at https://thethaiger.com/news/national/indian-passengers-turn-thai-airasia-plane-into-party-zone

I believe you're referring to Daiso on third floor of Silom Complex (and other locations). I'm familiar with the store and I don't believe they sell sex toys.

That's steep considering that you'd just be buying the business and not the real estate.

NOTE -- A rate cut should translate to a lower baht From Reuters / Bangkok Post Interest rates in Thailand should be cut quickly and sharply to help lift the economy out of “disaster”, says Kittiratt Na Ranong, who is widely expected to be named chairman of the board of the central bank. A Pheu Thai Party loyalist and former finance minister and stock exchange president, Mr Kittiratt told a seminar on Thursday that interest rates were too high and all sides must work together to address that. “It’s the way to prevent disaster. Today, I still believe that,” he said in reiterating a call he first made last year for fast and sharp cuts in interest rates to boost the economy. The government has yet to confirm the selection of Mr Kittiratt as chairman of the board of the Bank of Thailand, but sources with knowledge of the process have confirmed to Reuters his selection, which has been widely reported in local media. The government’s nomination of Kittiratt for the job faced strong opposition from economists and former Bank of Thailand governors concerned about political influence on the independent central bank. The Pheu Thai-led government has been at odds with the central bank for the bulk of its time in office since returning to power in September 2023, mostly over interest rates it says are shackling the economy. https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2923126/kittiratt-rate-cuts-needed-to-avert-disaster-in-thailand

From ESPN / MSN Suphanat Mueanta has always been destined for big things -- from the time he became the youngest player to both debut and then score in Thai League 1 at the age of 15. A year later, in 2019, he would set a similar record on the continental stage - becoming the AFC Champions League's youngest scorer at just 16 years and eight months. Many a prodigious talent has however failed in living up to their full potential. That will not be the case with Suphanat. Still only 22, the fleet-footed attacker recently returned to Buriram United after a loan stint in Europe with OH Leuven. The fact that he did not make a real breakthrough might led some to suggest it was a failed spell but the exposure he received would have been invaluable, especially considering he did make 14 appearances in the Belgian Pro League. It will be intriguing to see what the future holds for Suphanat, who should be aiming to continue developing at a higher level than in Thailand. Following in the footsteps of older brother Supachok Sarachat -- who has spent the last two and a half years with Consadole Sapporo -- and venturing to Japan's J1 League seems a logical move. In the present, though, his focus is firmly fixed on helping Thailand win a record-extending 8th ASEAN Championship title. And despite his relative youth, his undeniable quality and the fact that he has been around for a while now mean he is even playing the role of main man -- in an talented but inexperienced Thailand outfit missing some notable names in Chanathip Songkrasin, Theerathon Bunmathan and Teerasil Dangda. The added responsibility has hardly fazed him. With victories over Timor-Leste, Malaysia and Singapore, the War Elephants are already guaranted top spot -- and a semifinal berth -- ahead of Friday's Group A finale against Cambodia. Remarkably, Suphanat has been named Player of the Match in each match and already has three goals in as many games. Continues at https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/soccer/suphanat-mueanta-has-gone-from-teenage-prodigy-to-thailand-s-main-man-at-just-22/ar-AA1w9daN

From Pattaya Mail The initial success of DTV has been truly amazing with over 50,000 issued in just five months by Thai embassies and consulates abroad. As ever, they are fiercely independent and have their own documentary requirements within a broad framework established nationally. We all have to accept that reality like it or not. The whole subject is far too wide to address in detail here, so I propose we take a broad look at some of the pluses and minuses of this unprecedented innovation. DTV was announced primarily to address the needs of digital nomads or remote workers whose total global number is around 35 million. It cannot be a coincidence that other ASEAN partners, such as Cambodia and the Philippines, are now examining how to include this group within their own immigration agenda. But the point to stress is that digital nomads here cannot have Thai customers nor interact with the Thai economy. Do remember there isn’t any shortage of immigration police or investigators at the Department of Employment. Soft power or activity is another route to DTV. The bulk of successful applications have been for cookery or Muay Thai classes with the principal alternative being hospital appointments. It is important that, for adult learning, the course should last for several months at least or that medical treatment is prolonged and not just a matter of having a tooth extracted. Schools or academies should be registered with the appropriate government ministry. Some applicants have tried to broaden the activity to include learning the Thai language or the principles of Buddhism, but I don’t know of any successful cases as there are separate visas. A third route to DTV is family such as a Thai spouse and/or dependent children. Here applicants have to consider whether DTV suits their needs better than, say, the 12-months marriage visa with extensions or the non-immigrant three months visa or even the 60 days visa exempt. There can be no final answer as the foreigner’s status (such as age and whether employed overseas or in retirement) may be factors to consider. Some married foreigners over 50 prefer the annually-renewable extension of stay based on retirement which is, perhaps, the least bureaucratic of all the options. A third route to DTV is family such as a Thai spouse and/or dependent children. Here applicants have to consider whether DTV suits their needs better than, say, the 12-months marriage visa with extensions or the non-immigrant three months visa or even the 60 days visa exempt. There can be no final answer as the foreigner’s status (such as age and whether employed overseas or in retirement) may be factors to consider. Some married foreigners over 50 prefer the annually-renewable extension of stay based on retirement which is, perhaps, the least bureaucratic of all the options. https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/thai-immigration-lawyer-assesses-destination-thailand-visa-484385

From Pattaya News On December 17th, 2024, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and key officials held a meeting to address traffic congestion, drug issues, begging, and other social problems to improve order in the city. The meeting focused on six key issues: traffic law enforcement, drug abuse and illegal items like e-cigarettes and sex toys, tackling illegal vendors and beggars, scams targeting tourists around the Grand Palace, the impact of illegal Chinese businesses in areas like Huai Khwang, and land use regulations in districts such as Phaya Thai. Governor Chadchart announced the first model zone will begin along Sukhumvit Road, from Ploenchit Expressway to Phra Khanong intersection, targeting drug-free zones and cracking down on begging, illegal vending, and exploitation of tourists. National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of laws, particularly against illegal businesses, overloaded trucks damaging infrastructure, and organized begging. He noted plans for targeted zoning and joint task forces to address these problems, given limited resources effectively.

What can I say; I've been away from SK for six days now and I'm suffering withdrawal symptoms. 😑

The DA will have little choice other than to seek murder in the first degree. But it may not be a cut and dry verdict by any jury of his peers.

Phoenix Massage is offering 3, one-hour massages for 1,000 baht (normal price 799 for one). The offer is good Dec. 18 to 20 but package once purchased doesn't expire and may be shared.

+1 The 3300 baht for 90 minutes at first blush seems like a lot--and it is--but it's not out of the ballpark. One hour at Phoenix (assuming no promotional discount on house fee) would cost you 1,999 baht (799 + 1200 tip). Both shops have their advantage: Phoenix has twinks and twunks; Senso has more hunks and convenient location. Agree that the all-in pricing is the stress-free route to to a satisfactory experience.

Look on the bright side: It confirms that you are a man of sound judgement.

From the Straits Times Thai tear-jerker How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies has made the shortlist in the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards, it was announced in Los Angeles on Dec 17. The film that became a sensation in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia joins 14 other non-English-language films on the shortlist. The family drama about a cancer-stricken grandmother (Usha Seamkhum) and her scheming grandson (Putthipong “Billkin” Assaratanakul) is the first Thai movie to make the Oscars shortlist in the Best International Feature Film category, formerly known as Best Foreign Language Film. It is also the only title from Asia among the top 15 picks. The entry from the United Kingdom, Santosh, is a Hindi-language film set in rural India. Singapore’s entry to the category, La Luna, a Malay-language comedy-drama directed by Singaporean film-maker M. Raihan Halim, failed to make the cut. The remaining contenders in the category are I’m Still Here (Brazil), Universal Language (Canada), Waves (Czech Republic), The Girl With The Needle (Denmark), Emilia Perez (France), The Seed Of The Sacred Fig (Germany), Touch (Iceland), Kneecap (Ireland), Vermiglio (Italy), Flow (Latvia), Armand (Norway), From Ground Zero (Palestine) and Dahomey (Senegal). The film is the box-office champion of 2024 in its home country and has earned nearly US$50 million (S$67 million) globally. In Singapore, it grossed $5.86 million, making it the highest-earning Thai film of all time and the highest-grossing Asian title of 2024. Across South-east Asia, the film has set box-office records for a Thai production. It is also an outlier in the Thai film industry, a regional powerhouse known for its horror and comedy exports.

From Bangkok Post The Public Health Ministry has announced measures to reduce salt and sodium consumption, aiming to reduce the problem of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin chaired the National Policy Committee on Salt and Sodium Consumption Reduction to reduce NCDs on Monday saying Thai people consumed salt and sodium much higher than a standard recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). He said a 2009 ministry survey indicated that Thais consumed 4,351.69 milligrams (mg) of sodium per person per day from their diets, which is twice the WHO's recommendation of 2,000mg per day. More than 22 million Thais suffer from diseases related to sodium consumption, such as high blood pressure, kidney disease, heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2921581/salt-reduction-plan-seen-as-key-to-curbing-ncds

Please note final paragraph. ==================== From Bangkok Post Intending visitors to Thailand will be able to apply online for an e-visa at Thai embassies and consulates worldwide from Jan 1. Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said that from Jan 1, 2025, the Thai e-visa system would be operative at all 94 Thai embassies and consulates. Worawoot Pongprapapant, director-general of consular affairs, said travellers will no longer have to queue up and file many documents at embassies. Travellers could conveniently and safely apply for visas at www.thaievisa.go.th anywhere and anytime and pay visa fees online via Kasikornbank. However, travellers from some countries will still have to show payment slips at embassies and consulates, Mr Worawoot said. He said the e-visa system will cover tourists, students and workers. Copies of approved e-visas will be sent to applicants via email. Tourists from 93 countries do not have to apply for visas in advance and can stay in Thailand for up to 60 days, he said. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2922101/thai-e-visa-system-to-cover-all-thai-embassies-consulates-on-jan-1

From Bangkok Post ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the Chao Phraya River, continues its tradition of world-class celebrations with the Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025. This year’s event, the fifth, promises to be a global phenomenon featuring eco-friendly fireworks spanning 1,400 metres and visible from up to 5 kilometres along both banks of the river. The dazzling display, crafted with environmentally conscious techniques, is a collaboration between award-winning Japanese fireworks designers and Thai creative teams. Presented under the theme “Celebrating the Everlasting Legacy of Siam,” the fireworks unfold in six acts, each telling a story of Thailand’s cultural and natural beauty: Act 1: Vibrant Spectrum of Thai Wisdom Act 2: Rhythm of Blossoming Nature Act 3: Luminous Jewel of Thai Heritage Act 4: Magical Melody of the Cosmic Symphony Act 5: Supreme Magnificence on the Chao Phraya River Act 6: Celebrating the Everlasting Legacy of Siam The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2025 at ICONSIAM will take place from December 29–31 at River Park, ICONSIAM. Visitors can enjoy the grandeur in person or tune into a live broadcast on 18 channels, including Thairath TV Channel 32HD, ONE31, GMM25, and NBT, or online via Facebook and YouTube. The live broadcast begins at 11:00 PM, with ICONSIAM’s streaming starting at 5:30 PM. For event details and participation conditions, visit www.iconsiam.com, Facebook: ICONSIAM, or LINE Official: @ICONSIAM. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/pr/2922176/thailands-longest-eco-friendly-fireworks-light-up-iconsiam

This is all true. Now if we all could just stop talking about him.🙄

I think you're becoming aroused.

I just scanned through the last 100 threads in the Beer Bar and only one is about Trump. On the other hand, if you go over to the Politics Forum, just about every topic is about Trump.

From The Thaiger Everyone loves delicious food, but sometimes our favourite dishes can be harmful to our health if we eat too much of them. Processed foods, especially meats like sausages, are popular in Thailand, but eating them too often can lead to serious health issues such as kidney disease and cancer. It is important to understand the risks and make mindful choices to protect our health. Processed meats, like sausages, are convenient and tasty, but they can be harmful if consumed regularly. They often contain high levels of sodium (salt), phosphorus, and preservatives. These substances put extra stress on our organs, especially the kidneys, and can lead to severe health issues over time. Sausages, in particular, are high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure and force the kidneys to work harder to remove excess minerals from the blood. Just one sausage can contain about 21% of your daily recommended intake of sodium. When eaten in excess, this can cause long-term kidney damage. Moreover, processed meats can increase the risk of colon cancer. They can cause inflammation in the digestive system and create harmful chemicals like colibactin, which are linked to cancer. Many sausages also contain preservatives such as sodium nitrite, which can turn into cancer-causing chemicals when cooked at high temperatures. Continues at https://thethaiger.com/guides/best-of/health/this-thai-food-can-cause-serious-kidney-problems-and-cancer

From Pattaya News Thailand is actively considering amendments to its alcohol control laws for the upcoming year. The Thai Ministry of Public Health has announced that the Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill is set to be submitted to parliament in January 2025. This bill aims to align Thailand’s alcohol regulations with global norms but with a strong focus on public health and safety. Key points of the proposed changes include: Sales Hours: There is a clear intention not to allow 24-hour alcohol sales. Instead, specific regulations will determine the allowable hours for sales, potentially adjusting the current restriction on afternoon sales between 2pm and 5pm to more international standards. The 2PM to 5PM ban has been criticized for many years, especially in tourism destinations, and many lawmakers have sought to remove the decades old law for some time now, TPN Media notes. Hours will likely be adjusted by area and not by any national standards, allowing greater adjustments for tourism areas versus quiet residential areas. Public Health and Safety: The new laws emphasize strict enforcement to prevent underage access, including the formation of provincial alcohol control committees. There’s also a push to ban ‘drinking games’ due to health and legal risks they pose. It’s not completely clear what this means but could potentially endanger popular bar drinking games like connect four or jackpot if it seems to be connected to doing shots or more drinks. Feedback on social media around this proposal is nearly universally negative, with many claiming it would be an unenforceable law and some concerned it could affect pool or darts. Drink-Driving Prevention: Advocacy groups and public health officials are concerned about the impact of alcohol on road safety. There’s a current campaign aimed at reducing drink-driving during peak times like the New Year, with new policies potentially aiming to curb the 34% of fatal accidents linked to alcohol consumption during the last New Year’s celebration. Public and Political Support: The proposal has garnered attention from various sectors, including health advocacy groups and political parties. For instance, anti-alcohol advocacy groups have supported the move for stricter controls, while some political entities like the Move Forward Party have proposed bills in the past to ease restrictions for local producers but keep public health in mind. The final decisions will likely involve significant debate and adjustments based on public feedback, political negotiations, and expert recommendations. TPN media notes that these are proposals and by no means guaranteed to pass as law. https://thepattayanews.com/2024/12/17/thailand-considering-banning-bar-drinking-games-as-part-of-upcoming-alcohol-control-law-adjustments/