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@Lucky, this is that section. ☺️

From Pattaya News On December 24th, 2024, Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul announced that the Thai Cabinet had approved an extension of the reduced excise tax rate for entertainment venues, lowering it from 10% to 5% of revenue for another year. The measure, set to take effect from January 1st to December 31st, 2025, is designed to support Thailand’s economic recovery and bolster its tourism sector. This tax cut aligns with the government’s “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year 2025” initiative, aimed at increasing tourism activity, distributing income to local communities, and attracting more international visitors. Affected businesses include nightclubs, discos, pubs, bars, and cocktail lounges.

+1 Experience is the best teacher.

I watch the BBC news nightly and I find some of the items of much interest and some not at all. Same with PBS and other networks). But on the whole, I'm satisfied. They can't, after all, prepare the news with just me in mind. I'm reminded that the moderator designed the Beer Bar specifically for items not about gay Thailand. There are other forums for Thailand and other places where you can find the news you're looking for. Many readers enjoy reading about current events in the counties we visit. I appreciate that you (and others) wish to see only gay-related items. I hope you find satisfaction on the other pages. Happy holidays, Keith!

Because they didn't like articles they didn't have to read? If you don't like some articles in your daily newspaper do you stop reading it? In any case, Keith, they'd be welcomed back with open arms I'm sure.

From Pattaya News Pattaya police have arrested over 50 people in a major crackdown on drug use and crime during Operation “Parasite Clean-up Part 2” in the Jomtien area. At 5:00 AM on December 23rd, Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchakrit Jindakwanasong, the Chief of Chonburi Provincial Police, led a large-scale operation called “Parasite Clean-up Part 2” to crack down on crime. The operation targeted various criminal activities in the Jomtien area, specifically in Soi 2, 3, and 4, located in Pattaya. Over 900 officers were involved in the crackdown as well as drug sniffing dogs. These alleys had previously been on the news for open drug dealing and multiple arrests earlier this month. The area mainly consists of 5-story buildings with businesses like beer bars, restaurants, laundry shops, and massage parlors on the ground floor, while the upper floors are used as living spaces. Many of the buildings are abandoned and run-down, especially since COVID-19, leading to a large number of squatters and homeless in the area. Prior to COVID-19, the area contained many more legitimate businesses but unlike other parts of Pattaya and Jomtien never fully recovered, instead becoming full of illegal activity, say police. During the operation, authorities cut internet signals and communication systems, as well as water and electricity in some areas. They then carried out searches of the buildings to find illegal items, such as weapons and drug paraphernalia, and tested people for drug use. Some individuals were found using methamphetamine and acting erratically, while others were found in possession of drugs. https://thepattayanews.com/2024/12/23/over-900-police-officers-raid-jomtien-sois-2-4-to-eradicate-illegal-drugs/

Bangkok Christian Hospital. Guess it’s your lucky day!

From The Thaiger Alcohol sale breaks record on Air India Express’s inaugural flight to Bangkok Air India Express marked the launch of its new direct route from Surat in India to Bangkok with an unforgettable incident as passengers reportedly consumed the entire alcohol supply, valued at around 70,000 baht, before landing. The Indian low-cost airline announced in November that it would begin direct flights in December from Surat and Pune to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport, offering exciting opportunities for Indian travellers to explore Thailand. The inaugural flight from Surat to Bangkok took off on Friday, December 21, operated by a Boeing 737-8 aircraft. The flight had six cabin crew members and 175 passengers onboard, just one shy of its 176-seat capacity. Airline officials later highlighted the success of the new four-hour route, noting a record-breaking alcohol sales milestone. Several media outlets reported that the entire stock of alcoholic beverages, worth about 70,000 baht, was sold during the flight.

From Pattaya Mail The plans to build a highspeed rail link from Bangkok airports to U-tapao airport near Rayong has hit yet another snag. The international consortium Asia Era One, spearheaded by the Charoen Pokphand Group, is now facing the need to build a costly tunnel south of Pattaya to link with U-tapao as there is insufficient available land above ground to complete the job. According to the South China Morning Post, executives are balking at the expense with the final amount still being costed. The prospect of a tunnel over part of the proposed route has not hitherto been announced, although the whole scheme has suffered non-stop issues since its inception five years ago. The scheme is part of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) in three central provinces, including Chonburi, which aims to foster advanced industries as a pivotal engine of growth. The highspeed train is seen as essential to link the metropolis with a futuristic megacity (yet to be built) to transform the area adjoining U-tapao. The initial plan to have the railway operational by 2025 has now slipped to 2029 and even beyond. Meanwhile the whole concept of the EEC, a brainchild of the post-coup, military-backed administration and established by decree and not by parliament, is further compromised by environmental concerns. These include sea pollution in some areas and concerns that mammoth data centers, which store computer equipment and digital data, use gigantic amounts of water and electricity. General Prayut Chan-o-cha, the then prime minister, announced in 2017 that the sprawling and export-orientated EEC would promote electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, “S” curve technology-based industries and a hitech medical city (not yet built) to care for both Thais and foreigners. Pattaya itself has benefitted from some EEC initiatives relating to harbor improvements, ring roads and beach reclamation. Separately, investors now have to take into account the new Donald Trump administration in the USA which is likely to subject China and friends of China to additional tariffs on imports. It never rains but it pours.

From Pattaya Mail Pattaya, known for its vibrant tourism industry and bustling nightlife, is also home to a significant number of condo residents. As the city’s popularity continues to rise, so does the demand for residential properties, particularly high-rise condominiums. While these condos offer modern amenities, ocean views, and a convenient lifestyle, the safety of residents is becoming an increasingly important issue. One of the most critical concerns for condo residents in Pattaya is fire safety. Many older buildings, although well-maintained, may not have been constructed with modern fire safety standards in mind. Recent incidents in high-rise buildings worldwide have raised awareness of the need for comprehensive fire drills, clear evacuation procedures, and up-to-date fire suppression systems. In response, many new condominiums in Pattaya are equipped with advanced fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and fire-resistant materials. However, ongoing inspections and training remain essential to ensure the safety of residents in the event of an emergency. As Pattaya continues to grow and urbanize, older buildings may face challenges related to wear and tear, including structural integrity issues and outdated infrastructure. Ensuring that condominiums are regularly maintained, with timely repairs and upgrades, is crucial for residents’ safety. Building management teams play an essential role in organizing regular checks, from plumbing and electrical systems to the structural components of the building. Another concern for condo residents in Pattaya is the heavy traffic around popular residential areas. With the influx of tourists and locals, congestion is common, especially during peak hours. In some areas, pedestrians have limited safety, and the high volume of vehicles poses risks. Developers and local authorities are working together to improve road safety, create pedestrian-friendly zones, and regulate traffic flow around residential areas. Finally, residents’ safety also depends on the efficiency of emergency response systems in the area. Pattaya has emergency services, including paramedics, police, and firefighters, but the city’s infrastructure is often challenged by its popularity as a tourist destination. Condo associations and local authorities are continually working to ensure that emergency services are easily accessible to residents, with clear communication about how to respond in case of an incident.While Pattaya remains an attractive place to live and invest, safety should always be a top priority for condo residents. With proper attention to fire safety, building maintenance, security, and local infrastructure, residents can enjoy their homes with peace of mind. However, continuous improvements and proactive measures are required to keep pace with the city’s rapid growth and ensure that safety remains a key focus for the community.

The Skybar, located opposite Nature Boy, has a male only, late night bar in addition to a restaurant and karaoke. It's located a short distance from Silom Soi 7. It's popular with guys from Myanmar guys who work in Silom area.

You'll find The Rose discussed in detail in this thread.

Easy. First, his father is half Thai and one of greatest golfers to play the game. Second, hole-in-one is rare achievement, especially for youngster. Third, the Beer Bar doesn't require any relevance to Thailand or or anything else.

Know the soi but never heard of bar.

For me, the moment came nearly eight years ago. The happiest years of my life have followed. Thanks for reminder that hope springs eternal.

From Khaosod English Thai Police have arrested two Chinese nationals for allegedly extorting money and assaulting a fellow Chinese citizen whom they met through a dating application in Bangkok. The suspects were apprehended at JMT House in Soi Pracha Uthit 24, Huai Khwang district on December 19. The arrests followed a police report filed by an 18-year-old Chinese victim, identified only as Mr. Peng, at Phasicharoen Police Station on December 17. The victim reported meeting one of the suspects through the dating application “Blued” and agreeing to meet at 14 Resort Hotel in Bangkok’s Phasicharoen district. According to police reports, when the victim arrived at the hotel room, the suspects, identified as Mr. Sun Jian, 31, and Mr. Sun Hao, 23, allegedly handcuffed him, threatened him with a gun, and physically assaulted him with a baton. The suspects forced him to unlock his phone and transfer money via AliPay to a Bank of China account belonging to Sun Jian. The victim was compelled to make five transfers of 2,000 yuan each, totaling 10,000 yuan (approximately THB 50,000, USD 1,450). Police arrested two Chinese suspects sharing the surname Sun for extorting a Chinese man they met through a dating app in Huai Khwang district, Bangkok, with multiple pieces of evidence seized, on Dec 19, 2024. The suspects allegedly sexually assaulted the victim before releasing him at Phasicharoen MRT station the following morning. Police tracked down the suspects through CCTV footage from the Royal Thai Police’s surveillance network. Police seized several pieces of evidence, including a homemade .380 caliber firearm, 29 rounds of .380 caliber ammunition, one ammunition magazine, one baton, two pairs of handcuffs, one knife, clothes worn during the incident, and two mobile phones. The suspects face multiple charges, including armed extortion, physical assault, illegal detention, and unauthorized possession of firearms and ammunition. Investigators at Phasicharoen Police Station are working with tourist police interpreters to conduct further questioning of both the suspects and the victim as the investigation continues https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2024/12/20/dating-app-trap-two-chinese-men-arrested-for-extortion-and-assault-in-bangkok/

From The Nation The Interior Ministry has instructed provincial governors nationwide to step up security for tourists from criminals, influential persons and unlawful tourism businesses that may take advantage of them. A source at the ministry said that Industry permanent secretary Ansit Samphantharat had sent an urgent circular to provincial governors nationwide on Friday (December 20), ordering them to step up security for tourists in their provinces. The order cited the resolution of the national tourism board on November 26 that ordered the Interior and Tourism and Sports ministries and the Royal Thai Police to integrate efforts and measures to increase security for tourists. In his circular, Ansit handed down three measures for the provincial governors to implement urgently. First, the governors must draft operational guidelines for protecting life and assets of tourists in their provinces from natural disasters, crimes, exploitation and abuse by influential persons. The measures and guidelines must be drafted to respond to situations specific to the particular provinces, the circular said. Second, the provincial governors must join hands with police, local administrations and civilian volunteers to create confidence for tourists that they will be safe in the provinces. Third, the governors must launch awareness campaigns for tourist businesses, which have not been registered with the provincial administration or local administration, to register their businesses in accordance with the law. They include hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops. The governors were also ordered to report the outcome of the operations to the permanent secretary on the 10th of every month.

https://www.facebook.com/people/Himbkk/61560383199435/ The address translates to 58/16, 58/17 Surawong Rd.

From VN Express Ho Chi Minh City's Metro Line No. 1 officially launches operations on Sunday morning, connecting Ben Thanh Market in District 1 to Suoi Tien Theme Park in Thu Duc City, marking a milestone 12 years after construction began. At 10 a.m. Sunday, all 14 stations of the metro line officially open to the public. But a large number of people already flocked to Ben Thanh Station, the line's largest, at around 7 a.m.Ho Chi Minh City Vice Chairman Bui Xuan Cuong said the launch of the city's first metro line marks a significant milestone in the development of its public transportation system. The metro will cater to the public's need for fast and efficient travel, contributing to the creation of a sustainable and modern public transit network, Cuong said. "This project is also a symbol of the cooperation and strong ties between Vietnam and Japan, achieved through years of relentless effort." He added that the metro line sets the foundation for the future expansion of the city’s urban rail system. Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki expressed hope that the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien line will improve connectivity in high-traffic areas and encourage residents to shift from private vehicles to public transportation. "The success of Metro Line 1 will serve as a catalyst for the development of additional projects and infrastructure," said Ito Naoki. Single-ride tickets paid with cash will range from VND7,000 to VND20,000 (US$0.27-0.79), depending on the distance traveled. For cashless payments, the fare will be slightly lower, ranging from VND6,000 to VND19,000. https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/traffic/finally-happening-hcmc-s-1st-metro-line-begins-service-after-12-years-4830183.html

From The Thaiger Leading super-app Grab released its year-end statistics for on-demand transport and delivery services in Thailand, revealing significant growth and trends in 2024. The company reported an impressive increase in its ride-hailing and delivery services, driven by both local and international demand. Grab’s ride-hailing services have remained a favourite among users, with the GrabCar Saver option experiencing a remarkable growth of over 400% in major cities. The Moo Deng phenomenon contributed to a surge in ride-hailing trips, particularly to Khao Kheow Open Zoo, which saw a 267% increase in visitors, largely driven by foreign tourists. “Our commitment to price transparency and convenience continues to attract a diverse range of international tourists,” a Grab spokesperson mentioned, highlighting a 67% rise in ride-hailing trips to and from Thailand’s airports. The most frequent users hailed from Singapore, Malaysia, China, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Shopping destinations in Thailand have maintained their allure, with places like ICONSIAM, CentralWorld, Siam Paragon, Khao San Road, and Chatuchak Market seeing significant foot traffic. Newer spots like EmSphere, located on Sukhumvit, have also gained popularity among international visitors. https://thethaiger.com/news/business/grab-sees-400-growth-in-thailands-ride-hailing-and-delivery-services

From The Thaiger Three mayors in Phuket—Aroon Solos of Rawai, Panya Samphaorat of Pa Khlok, and Juta Dumlak from Kamala Tambon Administrative Organisation—are embroiled in legal battles over corruption charges. Phuket Vice Governor Ronnarong Thipsiri confirmed these proceedings, emphasising a broader push against corruption in the province. Panya Samphaorat faces charges from the Phuket branch of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for neglecting duties concerning public land. This case was accepted by the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases in March 2022. Juta Dumlak is accused of misconduct related to issuing building permits, with his case accepted in December last year. Aroon Solos, implicated in the unlawful issuance of building permits, has been under scrutiny since September 2020, though the action was delayed until a Supreme Administrative Court ruling in September last year. “Two of them, OrBorTor Chief Juta and Mayor Aroon have been suspended from their duties,” confirmed Phuket NACC Chief Suwat Saowarat. Only Panya remains active in his role, having filed a petition with the Administrative Court, resulting in a temporary protection order that allows him to continue his duties. https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/phuket-mayors-face-charges-in-major-corruption-scandal

Looks like they're preparing to make pole ring in big cock show.

From Khaosod English One of six Chinese scam suspects is arrested in his room at a luxury condominium in Huai Khwang district, Bangkok, on Dec. 20, 2024. BANGKOK — Thai immigration authorities have arrested six Chinese nationals, including the alleged ringleader, who were operating a sophisticated scam network from multiple units in a luxury condominium on Ratchadaphisek Road in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district. Led by Police General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police and Director of the Technology Crime Suppression Center, the raid uncovered an extensive operation spanning three floors of the upscale residential complex. The suspects had transformed their living spaces into a high-tech fraud center, utilizing artificial intelligence to rapidly create social media accounts and operating equipment capable of making up to 600,000 scam calls per hour. During the searches of six condominium units on the 16th, 17th, and 23rd floors, authorities seized a substantial cache of equipment, including: 286 SIM boxes, over 208,000 SIM cards, 636 mobile phones, 62 computer monitors, 84 CPUs, and 4 laptops. The suspects, who entered Thailand on student and tourist visas within the past four months, were reportedly managing the technical infrastructure for a larger operation. Investigation revealed that the actual scam calls were being conducted from overseas through remote connections to the Bangkok-based equipment. https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2024/12/21/from-student-visas-to-scam-empire-chinese-ring-busted-in-bangkok/

So my dreams keep reminding me. 😊