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From Malaysia Sun Bangkok - Interviews have begun with Myanmar refugees living in Thailand who are eligible for a new resettlement program in the United States, the Thai government said. Thailand said it hopes the first group may get to move by the end of the year. Some 90,000 refugees live in nine camps on the Thai side of the border to escape fighting between Myanmar's military and ethnic minority rebel armies vying for autonomy. Some of the refugees were born in the camps, which started to form in the mid-1980s, and many have lived in them for decades. Persistent fighting in Myanmar, amplified by a military coup in February 2021, has kept most from returning home. Aiming to give the refugees a safe way out of the camps, Thailand, the United States and the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees announced the resettlement plan in May 2023. One year on, Thailand's Ministry of Interior says that the Thai government and UNHCR have finished checking the personal information of the refugees to verify their eligibility for the program. More than 80,000 refugees were deemed eligible, and nearly all of them told officials they wanted to resettle. "After that, the U.S. team went to the first two camps for interviews, which have already been done," Zcongklod Khawjang, an interior ministry official in charge of overseeing the resettlement program, told VOA this week.

The rapid onset of the rainy season is taking its toll on the venues. Last night at 11:30, HM beer bar was devoid of customers and much of the staff had gone home early.

Not surprisingly, Singapore Airlines is the first carrier out of the gate to announce revised cabin protocols whenever the seat belt lights come on. Others are sure to follow in the wake of injuries stemming from the onset of rapid descent episodes. ========= Cabin crew will also sit down and fasten their seat belts when the seat-belt sign is lit, SIA said on May 23 in response to queries. But unlike in the past – when only hot drinks would be cut off during turbulence – the new measures would require all meal and drink services to stop when the ride gets bumpy. Other existing safety measures that kick in during poor weather conditions will remain in place. These include getting crew members to secure loose items in the cabin, advising passengers to return to their seats and buckle up, and monitoring passengers who may need assistance, such as those in the toilet.

How the hell could you forget! You were using Renee when we were playing the Sands together.

File under much to do about nothing or TIT (your choice). From the Thaiger Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin revealed that only cannabis buds will be reclassified as Category 5 narcotics, while the rest of the marijuana plantremains legal. This dramatic shift is set to clarify the murky waters of Thailand’s cannabisregulations, following Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s controversial pledge to recriminalise marijuana. “The new directive will specify that leaves, branches, roots, stems, and seeds are not outlawed. Only the buds, which contain psychoactive compounds for recreational use, will be banned.” In 2022, the Public Health Ministry, with the Narcotics Control Board’s agreement, removed marijuana and hemp from the national Category 5 narcotics list. However, Prime Minister Srettha’s campaign to reinstate marijuana restrictions has created widespread uncertainty. Now, with Somsak’s clarification, businesses can breathe a little easier, knowing that only the buds are in the crosshairs. “The directive will also set forth regulations on the planting, possessing, importing, exporting, and utilising parts of the marijuana plant that remain legal.” Somasak reassured that hemp would not be relisted as a drug, and any cannabis-related activities would require permissions, primarily for medical, research, and other legitimate purposes. The public health minister emphasised that the new system of permissions for cannabis activities would not impose excessive burdens on people. The regulations will clearly define the qualifications for individuals or businesses to engage in cannabis-related activities, ensuring transparency and ease of compliance. Additionally, Somsak promised that the regulation would include a clear timeline for enforcement, allowing businesses ample time to adjust to the new legal landscape, reported The Nation.

Maybe like Gene Hackman…

It’s the lone website I’m aware of but if you’re on its mailing list you’ll likely receive postings by mamasan Barbie.

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon The Thai government aims to rewrite the military-inspired charter to prevent coup makers from being regarded as sovereign or legitimate rulers. Moreover, a new law is expected to give the prime minister the authority to sack generals suspected of plotting to overthrow the legitimate authorities. Pheu Thai deputy leader Chusak Sirinil said the plan was to prevent wannabe coup leaders from appearing legitimate in the eyes of the public. This isn’t the first time. In 2013 there was a similar bill before a parliamentary subcommittee which promptly collapsed amid political bickering. During the May 2023 general election, Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat advocated that army generals should be restricted from entering politics and that compulsory military conscription should end. These notions were promptly placed in the bin and the Move Forward party consigned to the back benches. In a 2024 NIDA poll, most respondents did not believe Thai coups are a thing of the past. Ken Connor in his book on military interventions wrote that there is a strong coup culture in Thailand, even an addiction. Putsches have occurred on average every seven years in the last century. Many members of the public actually expect the army to intervene once the political situation boils over into violence on Bangkok streets: that is precisely what happened in the most recent coup of May 2014. Life quickly returned to normal, the trains and buses ran on time and opposition to the army quickly faded away. Neither the Thai press nor the courts opposed that coup, nor indeed any of its predecessors. Politicians tend to maneuver for position. In 2014 a Cabinet minister of the Yingluck-led civilian administration (when the coup occurred) actually ended up as the justice minister in the new military government. Even if a future coup maker tore up the constitution, which authority would challenge him? The technical agency would be the constitutional court which does not to date have a convincing record in opposing the generals. It is also possible to argue that a coup is not really a coup. In 2021, the army in Myanmar displaced the civilian government but the generals claimed they were within the law as chronic voting fraud had made the country ungovernable and its parliament illegitimate. In May 2014 the Thai army introduced martial law under a 1914 act, stressing that the reason was solely public security and nothing to do with a coup. Two days later Government House was under military occupation and supreme power vested in the army leader. Army spokesmen claimed it was the public will. Thailand does not presently appear to have the mechanisms to enforce a constitutional or legislative answer. The stark reality is that only failed coups are illegal. Successful ones by definition bestow the levers of power on a new regime inevitably claiming to be acting in the national interest. As Barbara Tuchman noted, “To put on the garment of legitimacy is the first aim of every coup.” The big question is whether it will work again in Thailand.

From The Thaiger Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will attend the Bangkok Pride Festival 2024, becoming the first Thai premier to join the event. This decision comes despite security concerns highlighted by a recent warning from the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). On May 10, both organisations issued a joint release warning that foreign terrorist organisations (FTOs) might target events during LGBTQ Pride Month. Although the release did not specify any particular city or Pride event, it noted that FTOs or their supporters may exploit the increased gatherings associated with June 2024 Pride Month. The release said that FTOs or supporters may seek to exploit increased gatherings associated with the upcoming June 2024 Pride Month. The release also mentioned that FTO efforts to incite or commit violence against holiday celebrations, including Pride events or LGBTQIA+ venues, are exacerbated by the current heightened threat environment in the US and other Western countries. Additionally, it pointed out that FTOs have previously promoted anti-LGBTQIA+ rhetoric and targeted related events or venues for attacks. Last June, three alleged ISIS sympathisers were arrested for attempting to attack a Pride parade in Vienna, Austria. The release warned that attackers might try to gain access to restricted areas, bypass security, impersonate law enforcement officials, or make violent threats online, in person, or via mail.

You know this for a fact or just speculation? But if that’s what he did, at least he had the courtesy to leave the boys behind. Personally, the manager has never been a priority when choosing a massage shop to visit. 🙂

No, just happen to be waiting for my selection to arrive.🙂

New site: One Spa Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/people/OneSpa/100093989228505/ i’m there now and can assure you it’s open for business.

From The Thaiger The Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) called for a major budget increase to boost tourism revenue to a staggering 3.5 trillion baht in 2024, attracting more tourists. The Thai government is aiming high, with an ambitious goal to lure no fewer than 39 million international tourists to its stunning shores throughout 2024. To achieve this, the TAT is pushing for more funds to collaborate with airlines, creating new flight routes and ensuring a smooth influx of global visitors. Dubbed the Airline Focus strategy, this plan is pivotal in the post-Covid-19 landscape. Airlines are the lifeblood of international travel, and successful partnerships are essential to reigniting Thailand’s tourism industry. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for Europe, Africa, Middle East, and Americas market, highlighted the need for additional funding to drive joint promotions with airlines and other stakeholders.

From The Thaiger Developed under the provincial police’s guidance, the PATTAYA SAFETY app acts as a comprehensive platform for incident reporting, tip submission, and direct communication with authorities around the clock. The app boasts an array of features tailored to assist users during emergencies and address safety concerns. Key functionalities include online incident reporting, the ability to submit anonymous tips, and identity verification through E-KYC standards. Users can track the real-time status of their reports, ensuring transparency and efficiency. A standout feature is the SOS button, which grants quick access to emergency assistance. Additionally, a real-time chat function allows direct communication with police officers. The app supports Thai and English languages and offers an emergency contact number for immediate help. “Simply search for the ID ‘PATTAYA SAFETY’ on LINE to add the app.” Available for download on both the App Store and Google Play, the app also provides the latest news and updates about Pattaya.

From Pattaya Mail By Barry Kenyon A group of Pattaya-based retirees say they are both confused and aggrieved by continuing ambiguity about their Thai tax liability from January 1 2024. Thai Revenue stated many months ago that “most” overseas income transmitted to Thailand from that date would be subject to personal income tax, to be collected the following year. The requirement applies to all tax residents, namely Thais or foreigners residing in the kingdom for at least six months in a calendar year. The policy is said to be principally aimed at closing tax loopholes exploited mostly by super-rich Thais in the past. Kurt Fischer told the Pattaya Mail, “We are appealing to the Thai premier to order a clarification for the 500,000 or so foreign tax residents here. Our group are all retirees who live exclusively on income and pensions already taxed in our home country. We do not run businesses abroad, indulge in currency speculation or salt away money in offshore bank accounts, but the advice from so-called tax experts is flatly contradictory. Some say that pension income already taxed in the home country is absolutely exempt, whilst others maintain that it’s just a tax credit against payments due here in Thailand.” Another group member Kevin Haddon explained, “There are all sorts of rumors, for example that you will need to obtain a tax identification number from the Revenue to qualify for a one year extension of stay, or that you can ignore the whole thing if your country (one of 61) has concluded its own double taxation treaty with Thailand. Some people have been told by experts to use an international credit card, with headquarters outside Thailand, for as many transactions as possible in order to avoid detection.” The group observed that the lack of definitive information was leading some expats to consider moving abroad, whilst others were simply burying their head in the sand, ostrich-style, and hoping the horror will pass them by. “The confusion is really bad for the future of the traditional retirement market in Thailand. The confusion is obviously a paradise for tax lawyers and accountants,” one told Pattaya Mail, “but an absolute nightmare for us.”

From Pattaya News A late-night road accident in Pattaya, involving an allegedly intoxicated Russian driver, has left one person dead and another seriously injured. The incident occurred around 4:00 AM on May 21st, 2024, on Sukhumvit Road near an intersection in South Pattaya. Local rescue workers and Pattaya police rushed to the scene upon receiving reports of the accident. There, authorities found a Ford Everest SUV, driven by 40-year-old Russian national Mr. Lomasko Artem. The car had sustained extensive front-end damage. Authorities said Mr. Artem appeared intoxicated. On the side of the road, rescue workers discovered a severely damaged Yamaha Belle motorbike and two seriously injured victims, identified as Mr. Boonphob Thongpan and Ms. Mukcharee Srithet, 28. The two were rushed to a local hospital. Unfortunately, Ms. Mukcharee sadly died from her wounds shortly after arriving at the hospital. According to an eyewitness, Mr. Somsak Lomale, 40, the SUV driven by Mr. Artem was allegedly speeding and swerved into the back of the Yamaha Belle traveling in the same direction. The impact caused the motorcycle to spin out of control, throwing the two victims onto the road. Mr. Artem was taken into custody at the Pattaya Police Station for further questioning and a blood alcohol test. The Russian driver did not make a statement to the press at the time of the accident.

First time I noticed it because not Twitter customer.But “X” now in some cross reference agreement with LINE and Facebook. That’s how it came to my attention For those now in Bkk, KK is offering promotional rate of 250 bht for one hour massage today and tomorrow (22 and 23).

“I wish I have big mushroom head”.

From the Straits Times SINGAPORE - One passenger died and 30 were injured when an SIA flight flying to Singapore from London’s Heathrow Airport encountered severe turbulence in the air. In a Facebook post on May 21, Singapore Airlines (SIA) said the aircraft was diverted to Bangkok and made an emergency landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 3.45pm. SIA, in an update later in the night, said 18 passengers were hospitalised, while another 12 are being treated for injuries in hospital. The remaining passengers and crew on board the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft are being examined and treated at the airport in Bangkok. Reuters reported that the aircraft, after about 11 hours of taking off from London, dropped sharply from an altitude of about 37,000 feet to 31,000 feet within just five minutes as it finished traversing the Andaman Sea and neared Thailand, according to FlightRadar 24 data.

“Take a Nap,” the hostel and inn on Rama Four, has closed its doors.

Since nothing seems deter this practice, tourism authorities have an obligation to warm Pattaya tourists of this popular occupation.. From Pattaya Mail Two transgender suspects involved in a gold necklace theft from an Indian tourist on Pattaya Beach have been tracked down and arrested by Tourist police. On the evening of May 9, Subhash Petloj, a 50-year-old tourist, fell victim to theft by two transgender women near the Elephant Market. Exploiting a friendly conversation, the suspects snatched Mr. Petloj’s 60,000 baht gold necklace, weighing 20 grams, before fleeing. Swiftly reporting the incident, Mr. Petloj identified the culprits to authorities, leading to a meticulous investigation aided by CCTV footage. The suspects were identified as Mr. Monlada Lahae (alias Em), 34, and Mr. Kotchaphaphak Chamnanphoj (alias Nueng), 41. Arrest warrants were issued by the Pattaya Provincial Court, charging the suspects with night time theft facilitated by vehicle use. Tracking down the perpetrators, Mr. Monlada was apprehended at a Banglamung District residence, where the Yamaha Fino motorcycle used in the crime was recovered. Simultaneously, Mr. Kotchaphaphak was arrested at a Pattaya condominium. Both suspects were taken into custody and transferred to the Pattaya City Police Station for further legal proceedings.

KK Massage has launched a Twitter site. @okok1090 Minimum tips on most tops listed at 800 bht with some going for 1k. T&B’s 1k with limited number at 1.2K.

At least 10.

https://www.rome2rio.com/map/Bangkok/Vientiane?msclkid=884f350173b617982e62534b82ef8fd2&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SEM_ASIA_EN_TRAIN_ALL_ALL_I.III_L_[TRAIN_01_ROU|PRO_0]_P:TRAIN_NOPRO&utm_term=train from bangkok to vientiane&utm_content=SEM_RW_EN_TRAIN_ALL_ALL_I.III_L_[TRAIN_01_ROU|PRO_0]_P:TRAIN_NOPRO_(BANGKOK_TH)_(VIENTIANE_LA)#r/Train https://www.thaitrainguide.com/2024/05/04/how-to-pay-for-train-tickets-in-thailand/

From The Nation ‘Boys’ Love series has given Thai film production a new lease of life’ The popularity of the “Boys’ Love” series has spurred rapid growth in Thailand's film production industry, the Department of Business Development has revealed. The film production industry is a standout sector experiencing significant growth and increase in revenue. In the first four months of 2024 (January-April), 56 film production businesses were registered as legal entities, a 12% increase over the same period in 2023, the department said. Their total registered capital was 195.18 million baht, up 146.44% over the same period in 2023. In 2023, there were 137 businesses with a registered capital of 258 million baht, a 20% increase from 2022. In 2022, the total revenue of the film production industry was 12.895 billion baht, with a trend of continuous growth, the department said. This growth no doubt rides on Thailand’s economic recovery but is also due to the industry adapting itself to consumer behaviour and the context of Thai society, which is increasingly open to gender diversity, the department said. A major contributor to the development of this industry is the popularity of the Boys’ Love series, which portrays relationships without gender limitations and openly presents various forms of love. This content has gained popularity among consumers both domestically and internationally. continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40038144