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Pattaya doesn’t have a monopoly on labyboys behaving badly. The Thaiger carried this account last week of foreign ladyboy attacking tourist in Phuket because he refused to buy roses from him/her.

From The BBC How The White Lotus reveals the hidden codes of male nudity on screen Full-frontal male nudity in all three series of The White Lotus has provoked waves of reaction and comment. Why does showing a penis on screen still have the ability to shock? Episode four of The White Lotus season three, which is set in Thailand, saw the increasingly agitated millionaire dad Tim Ratliff (Jason Isaacs) sit down for breakfast in a loosely tied dressing robe. His family are unaware that Tim is wanted by the FBI for illegal financial dealings and will likely end up in prison – and that he's been popping tablets of anti-anxiety medication Lorazepam like sweeties. Warning: This article contains language that some may find offensive "Everyone at the club…!" he mutters to himself in horror, and, imagining his acquaintances finding out about his crimes, he puts his hands up over his head, accidentally exposing his genitals as a result. "Oh my god, Dad!" his three near-adult children cry out in disgust. "Your balls!" It might have been only a flash of male genitalia in this third series of Mike White's hugely successful dramedy about one-percenters on holiday, but it instantly became a much-discussed moment on social media. "Jason Isaacs I was unfamiliar with ur game," one person posted on X, while another added: "[the] full frontal made me spill my soup I wasn't ready." Others connected Isaacs' nakedness back to his other famous role as Lucius Malfoy in the Harry Potter films. "Well, I didn't expect White Lotus to show Lucius Malfoy's wand tonight, but here we are…" one user quipped. Continues with photos https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20250319-why-on-screen-male-nudity-is-still-rare-and-taboo

Pretty sure he hopes his cell mates don’t share your opinion. 🙂

From The Nation Police in Phuket province on Thursday evening rounded up 37 individuals, most of them transgender women, for alleged disruptive behaviour at Soi Bangla, a tourist neighbourhood in Patong subdistrict of Kathu district. Phuket police chief Pol Maj-General Sinlert Sukhum said the operation targeted individuals engaging in disruptive behaviours that negatively impact the province’s tourism industry as well as its positive image. Sinlert added that the arrested suspects were mostly transgender women who showed behaviour that could be classified as “unlawful”. The 37 suspects were sent to Patong Police Station for questioning and legal proceedings, he said. Bangla Road is Phuket's iconic nightlife hub, known for its vibrant atmosphere and endless entertainment. This bustling street is lined with bars, clubs, and go-go bars, offering live music, dancing and shows, attracting tourists and locals. https://www.nationthailand.com/news/general/40047721

From VN. Express Aerial views of Tan Son Nhat's Terminal 3 show the nearly completed structure, with the official opening set for April 30, two months ahead of schedule. Surrounding infrastructure, including roadways and overpasses, is also nearing completion. Designed to handle 20 million passengers annually, Terminal 3 will increase Tan Son Nhat Airport's total capacity to 50 million per year. https://e.vnexpress.net/photo/traffic/a-closer-look-at-ho-chi-minh-city-airports-new-terminal-before-it-comes-alive-4863373.html

The following report from The Pattaya News makes it clear that the insults originated with the trans individual: Eyewitnesses reported that the incident began when the tourist was walking along a sidewalk near Soi 13/4, adjacent to Pattaya Beach. The transgender woman trailed him, hurling insults, though the exact cause of their dispute remains unclear. The situation came to a head in front of a beachside massage parlor, where a heated argument erupted. Moments later, the transgender woman attacked, striking the tourist with her high heel until his head was bloodied and split open. One witness told reporters that such incidents—ranging from violent assaults to theft—are all too common in this area. The perpetrators are often transgender women who congregate in groups, allegedly engaging in prostitution. According to the witness, trouble frequently arises when tourists, upon realizing the individuals approaching them are transgender, attempt to disengage and walk away. In response, some of these individuals fabricate accusations—claiming harassment or molestation—to extort money from the tourists. The witness suggested that the assailant in this case is a local “regular” and part of a group linked to a similar assault on a tourist in the early hours of March 17 that we reported on here. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/22/transgender-woman-in-high-heels-attacks-foreign-tourist-in-pattaya-sparking-outrage/

From Khmer Times A masseur has been arrested after he stabbed a colleague to death in Phnom Penh. On March 16, 2025, at 8:30 p.m., at the Kines massage shop located at House No. 22Z, Street 420, Group 14, Village 4, Sangkat Boeung Trabek, Khan Chamkar Mon, Phnom Penh, a murder occurred. A suspect, a massage shop employee, used a sharp knife to stab another employee several times, causing serious injuries and death upon being taken to the hospital. During the act, the suspect threatened to take the victim’s phone and fled. The Phnom Penh Municipal Police Department’s Criminal and Light Penalty Office, in collaboration with the Chamkar Mon District Police Inspectorate, conducted a thorough investigation and, in cooperation with the Mueang Kompu District Police, Kandal Province, arrested the suspect on March 19, 2025, after he had fled to hide in Mueang Kompu District, Kandal Province, his hometown. After the arrest, the police seized evidence, including: 5 cell phones, 2 sharp knives with rubber handles, 1 blue Suzuki Viva motorcycle with Battambang license plate number 1H-9760, and 1 safety helmet. The suspect was identified as Tha Vandy, a 35-year-old male massage therapist. On the morning of March 21, 2025, the heavy criminal force of the Phnom Penh Police Station sent the suspect to the Phnom Penh Municipal Court to deal with legal procedures.

And people still ask me why I never go to Pattaya 🙂.

From VN Express The Vietnamese government has decided to extend visa exemption for citizens of 12 countries including major tourism markets such as South Korea and Japan until 2028. Other countries include Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the U.K., Russia, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland. The government's resolution clearly states that citizens of these countries will be exempted from visas for a temporary stay period of 45 days from the date of entry, regardless of passport type and purpose of entry, on the basis of fully meeting the entry conditions as prescribed by Vietnam’s laws, the government's portal reported. https://e.vnexpress.net/news/travel/visa/vietnam-extends-visa-waiver-for-citizens-of-12-countries-until-2028-4858311.html

Maybe but suspending from floor was not well received.

Dragon and Koi is unique: no other bar offers the same combination of entertainment and host opportunities. The dancers are all very friendly and willing to get up close in personal while sitting with customers in booths. But that comes with expected cost. It’s still possible, however, to sit at bar, order a beer or soft drink, and enjoy the same show at very reasonable cost. You’ll be approached by dancers between sets and offered company but no need to accept. Since dancers are central to the bar’s special concept, it’s reasonable that management can’t allow performers to be offed. Whether this practice stands the test of time remains to be seen. To date, one dancer I’m aware of moved over to Freshboy for offing opportunities and appears to be doing quite well in that environment.

Be the first one to report on new place. Very easy to find.

+1. Since English is widely spoken among Filipinos, many find work in health care and other professions.

As we get older our vision often fails is. Keep trying!

My reply was meant in jest.😄 I would agree, however, that the sex trade is the primary reason readers come to this site.

The “sex trade” is among the topics that keep readers returning to this forum. Please tread lightly on the meat and potatoes of this site.

From The Nation The Public Health Ministry launches the 'Thai Massage College,' aiming to train 20,000 specialized therapists in seven conditions, boosting Thailand’s economy by 144 billion baht. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, stated while presiding over the opening ceremony of the "Thai Massage College of Thailand" on Thursday (March 20, 2025) at the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine that elevating Thai wisdom, particularly Thai massage, is part of the Public Health Ministry's policy to enhance the health economy’s potential and establish Thailand as a Medical and Wellness Hub. The Thai Massage College will serve as a centre for training and developing skilled Thai massage therapists with specialized expertise in seven conditions: myofascial pain syndrome, frozen shoulder, trigger finger, piriformis syndrome, herniated disc, cerebrovascular accident, and knee pain. "Upon passing the assessment and being certified as specialists, practitioners will have the opportunity to receive higher payment, elevating the profession, quality standards, and image of Thai massage," said Somsak. "This will enhance confidence in Thai massage as a recognized health care practice both domestically and internationally, while also contributing over 144 billion baht to the country's health economy." Dr Sakda Alphach, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Public Health Ministry, stated that the Thai Massage College will operate as a department-level institution responsible for training and certifying Thai massage standards. It will serve as a global hub for academic exchange and collaboration in Thai massage while ensuring public confidence in Thai massage as a health care practice. The college will enhance the skills of individuals who have completed the 150-hour Thai health massage course registered with the Department of Health Service Support. It aims to train 20,000 Thai traditional medicine assistants in specialized Thai massage techniques for seven specific conditions and prepare 1,000 master trainers in Thai massage, who will receive official instructor certification. " Training will be conducted across 18 Thai traditional medicine training centres and 38 universities nationwide that offer programs in Thai traditional and applied traditional medicine. Additionally, the college will oversee standard assessments and certification for Thai massage quality," Dr Sakda said. Continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/health-wellness/40047654

From Khaosod English PHUKET — Officials have announced the results of their investigation into what was described as “Phuket’s largest foreign slum” following a video report by YouTube channel “Ride with Gabi” titled “THE OTHER SIDE OF PHUKET 🇹🇭 THAILAND” released last week. The video showed a large slum in central Phuket reportedly inhabited entirely by Myanmar migrant workers, where over 300 children receive education and meals from a foundation funded by donations and foreign volunteers. Colonel Adul Choothong, Deputy Governor of Phuket, held a press conference to present the investigation findings, joined by Teerapong Chuaychu, Phuket Provincial Clerk; Pairoj Srilamul, Phuket City District Chief; and representatives from employment, social development and human security agencies, among others. The briefing took place at the Muk Anda Conference Room on the 4th floor of the Phuket Provincial Hall. The investigation revealed that there are three foreign volunteers: one American, one Irish, and one Chinese national (from Hong Kong). All are unpaid volunteers receiving no financial compensation. According to the Office of the Council of State, volunteers in public charitable organizations are not considered to be working and therefore do not require work permits. Additionally, there are ten foreigners with valid work permits, including one German national, one person without registered status, and eight Myanmar nationals. Immigration officers and the Provincial Employment Office have requested documentation from the parents of the more than 300 children studying at the foundation to verify their immigration status and work rights. The Ban Sri Chumphabal Foundation’s Phuket branch will suspend its educational activities but will remain open for children and youth to participate in other activities. Phuket Province has assigned the Provincial Education Office to investigate further, noting that operating an educational institution without authorization could result in imprisonment for up to one year or a fine not exceeding 20,000 baht. Regarding education for foreign children in Thailand, while laws stipulate that all children under 18 years of age within Thai jurisdiction must receive equal protection without discrimination and are entitled to at least 12 years of free, quality education provided by the state, the reality remains challenging. Migrant worker parents often face difficulties enrolling their children in the formal education system. Therefore, schools operated by foundations in areas close to worker accommodations offer a more accessible alternative for these children to receive. Continues with photos and video https://www.khaosodenglish.com/featured/2025/03/18/probe-reveals-status-of-controversial-phukets-largest-foreign-slum/

From The Thaiger A Chinese man assaulted a university staff member at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom, prompting calls for his visa to be revoked. The incident occurred when the man, upset his girlfriend’s performance was not filmed, attacked a staff member with a chair and slammed the staff member’s head against a wall, resulting in the staff member being hospitalised in the intensive care unit. The event unfolded on March 18 at around 1.30pm at MACM Hall, College of Music, Mahidol University. According to Vin, a student from the faculty, the incident took place during a concert where a Chinese master’s degree student was scheduled to perform. Her boyfriend, not a student at the university, became aggressive when the staff forgot to record her performance. Vin recounted that upon arriving at the venue, the Chinese man began banging on the staff room door and shouting. The situation escalated as staff member A was attacked with a chair, had their head slammed against a wall, and sustained a broken finger. The victim was rendered unconscious and was unable to provide a statement to the police due to being hospitalised. On the same day, witnesses and the perpetrator were taken to Phutthamonthon Police Station. The police recorded the incident but it remains unclear whether further legal action will be pursued against the perpetrator. The Chinese student’s girlfriend has not commented on the matter. Vin noted that the Chinese man had previously caused a disturbance by parking in a restricted area and using offensive language when confronted by security. Continues at https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/crime/chinese-man-assaults-staff-at-mahidol-university-visa-revocation-urged

You’re not overreacting; you’re being sensible. But I would definitely opt to seek care n Bangkok.

From Pattaya News On August 5th, 2022, a devastating fire broke out at the Mountain B Pub, a nightclub located on Sukhumvit Road in the Sattahip district of Chonburi Province. The blaze started around 12:45 AM during a live music performance, originating on the ceiling above the stage which we covered in depth here. The owner of the Mountain B Pub, identified as Pongsiri Panprasong, also known as “Sia B,” faced legal consequences for his role in the disaster. On March 18, 2025, the Pattaya Provincial Court sentenced him to five years and four months in prison after he was found guilty of recklessness causing death. Initially facing a potential 10-year sentence, his term was reduced due to a guilty confession. Alongside him, three others were convicted: His wife and father each received 10-year sentences, and an electrician involved in the pub’s setup was sentenced to five years and one month. The court also imposed fines, with Sia B ordered to pay 133,000 baht. Compensation for the victims’ families was set to vary between 2 to 5 million baht per victim. His wife and father received longer sentences and 266,000 Baht fines due to not confessing but later being found guilty for their part in the shocking incident, although they are able to appeal. The fire exposed significant safety violations at the venue. The Mountain B Pub was operating illegally, licensed only as a restaurant with a midnight closing time, yet it functioned as a nightclub past legal hours in an area where such establishments were prohibited. The lack of proper permits, inadequate fire safety measures—like the limited exits and the use of highly flammable materials—and alleged negligence by officials who failed to enforce regulations contributed to the catastrophe. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/03/19/mountain-b-pub-owner-sentenced-to-five-years-in-jail-for-fatal-2022-fire-that-killed-26-people-in-sattahip/

Demolition is under way on section of original building facing Silom rd

Walked by G-Zone this afternoon to find renovations under way. Manager said they will take five days.