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1 hour ago, Keithambrose said:
How long before they are vandalised/misused?
You mean with glory holes? 🙂
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Faulty engines and financial problems are creating capacity issues for Vietnam carriers, resulting in higher domestic fares according to article appearing today in the VN Express:
"The ticket shortage and high fares are partly due to a shortage of aircraft, it added. This year aircraft engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney has recalled faulty engines for inspection and repair.
Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air between them have around 40 aircraft with the faulty engines, and so the aircraft using them will be grounded in 2024-25.
Besides, some airlines are restructuring and downsizing their fleets. Bamboo Airways had 28 aircraft, but just a few remain in operation.
Pacific Airlines was unable to pay its debts and its fleet, all leased, has been seized."
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From The Thaiger
A bombshell announcement rocks the media landscape as Voice TV, the longstanding bastion of pro-Thaksin views, announces it is shutting down.
The board of Voice TV declared the end of its 15-year run, leaving some 100 journalists and staff members facing the axe. The abrupt closure has left tongues wagging, with no immediate rationale provided for the drastic move.
Established back in 2008, Voice TV initially made waves as a niche satellite channel before expanding its reach to digital terrestrial platforms in 2014. However, in a twist of fate in 2019, the channel relinquished its digital TV presence amidst financial turmoil, reverting to satellite broadcasts and online streams via Facebook and YouTube.
Renowned for its unwavering pro-Thaksin stance, Voice TV’s pundits have often rallied behind the Shinawatra family, raising eyebrows and courting controversy. Notably, the channel’s former anchors have made waves in the political arena, with figures like ex-Future Forward luminaries Pannika Wanich and Piyabutr Saengkanokkul transitioning from news desks to parliamentary seats, reported Thai PBS World.
In related news, the Supreme Administrative Court delivered a final blow, dismissing the Prime Minister’s Office secretariat‘s hefty 2.8 billion baht lawsuit against iTV Public Company. The lawsuit, stemming from a joint agreement with Shin Corp to operate a TV station using the UHF spectrum, has been a thorn in the side since 2007, persisting through numerous administrations.
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Anti-corruption commission lets go of Yingluck’s exoneration
Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has unanimously chosen not to contest the Supreme Court’s ruling, which exonerated former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra and five others from malfeasance charges linked to a 240-million baht public relations campaign, according to an insider familiar with the situation.
The NACC filed allegations against Yingluck, former Prime Minister’s Office minister Niwatthamrong Boonsongpaisan, Yingluck’s secretary-general at the time, Suranand Vejjajiva, Matichon Plc, Siam Sport Syndicate Plc, and Siam Sport director Ravi Lohtong. They were accused of abusing their authority by neglecting to hold public tenders for the PR campaign from August 2013 to March 2014. Consequently, Matichon and Siam Sport, the media firms, were favoured and received the contracts.
Yingluck, Niwatthamrong and Suranand commissioned Matichon to manage a campaign in 12 provinces to boost infrastructure projects, which the government intended to fund with a 2 trillion baht loan.
The NACC stated that the 240 million baht spent on the campaign was squandered when the promotional roadshow was cancelled following the Constitutional Court decision that the proposed legislation for borrowing was unconstitutional.
However, the Supreme Court ruled that there was no harm to the state concerning the PR fund distribution and contract award to Matichon and Siam Sport, as government organisations and the Cabinet had endorsed the Yingluck government’s transport infrastructure projects. The Budget Bureau also agreed that Yingluck, as prime minister, could allocate a contingency fund for the PR project. Therefore, the NACC had no legal grounds to appeal, the source said.
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From Pattaya News
Pattaya City has invested 30 million baht in buying six new toilet trucks to accommodate tourists, elderly, and disabled people, especially during events.
Mr. Manoch Nongyai, the Deputy Mayor of Pattaya, proudly announced the initiative on April 25th, 2024, after the city received three out of the six new vehicles.
He stated that these new vehicles will be added to the existing 3-vehicle fleet. Previously, Pattaya relied on just three older mobile toilet trucks, with some having been in service for many decades. The bulky size of the old vehicles made it difficult to park them in areas with limited space. The growing number of tourists, particularly during major events, further necessitated the need for expanded restroom facilities, Mr. Manoch added.
The newly acquired mobile toilets feature a compact design, making them suitable for navigating tight spaces. Two of the six vehicles come with units specifically dedicated to elderly or people with disabilities as they are equipped with hydraulic lifts. They also offer over six restrooms for both genders.
Meanwhile, the other four toilet trucks come with standard units with two restrooms each for men and women. The city has invested over 30 million baht into the project, Mr. Manoch stated.
For now, the city will deploy the three trucks they received at Walking Street, the area near the Pattaya City water pump station, and Central Beach when events are not taking place.
Deputy Mayor Manoch is confident that the city will receive the remaining three toilet trucks in May of 2024. He expected that the initiative will significantly improve restroom accessibility for tourists and residents in Jomtien and Pattaya beaches.
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From Pattaya Mail
Pattaya launches electric baht-buses
As part of the project’s strategy to curb carbon emissions, the electric pickup trucks will undergo trial service as fixed-route public transportation vehicles from April 2024 to December 2025. Operating along the “Route 4,” these twelve electric vehicles will shuttle passengers from the Bali Hai Pier Parking Lot in South Pattaya to the Bang Lamung District Office.
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Thought I was back in Screwboy when I saw the dancers in opening scene wearing basketball uniforms but then noticed two differences. First, they all have different numbers you can't miss. Second, none are twinks.
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From The Nation
Anzac Day was marked on Thursday with special remembrance rites in Kanchanaburi, honouring soldiers who died building the Death Railway in slave-like conditions during World War II.
Presiding over the ceremony were Australian Ambassador Angela Macdonald, her New Zealand counterpart Jonathan Kings along with deputy chief of Australia’s Joint Operations, Rear Admiral Justin Jones. Also present were representatives of the Thai armed forces, other embassies as well as descendants of the prisoners of war who lost their lives on the Death Railway.
The event was held at the Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum.
The first Anzac Day was held in 1915 in honour of members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (Anzac), who fought in the Gallipoli Campaign during World War I, which resulted in heavy casualties on both sides.
Now, Anzac Day is marked on April 25 every year, and has been expanded to honour all Australians and New Zealanders “who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations". It also recognises the contribution of veterans and those currently serving.
In his speech, Jones said it was an honour to participate in the ANZAC Day remembrance at the Hellfire Pass, which was part of the Death Railway, where some 12,800 prisoners of war and 90,000 Asian workers were killed.
Macdonald said the rite was to remember and honour Australian troops who have sacrificed their lives to serve and protect the country, while Kings remembered New Zealand troops who died fighting for peace. He wrapped up his speech by declaring “ka maumahara tonu tātou ki a rātou” in Maori, meaning “we will remember them”.
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From The Thaiger
The Public Health Ministry authorised the utilisation of opium and magic mushrooms for medical treatment and research purposes. This groundbreaking decision, disclosed in a directive published in the Royal Gazette yesterday, signifies a significant shift in drug policy.
Signed by Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew, the directive came into effect today. It categorises opium and psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms due to their hallucinogenic properties when ingested, as narcotics falling under Category 5. Notably, these substances are distinct from marijuana and hemp extracts.
Previously, the ministry had removed kratom, marijuana, and hemp from the Category 5 list, retaining only opium, magic mushrooms, and marijuana and hemp extracts with a THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) level exceeding 0.2%.
Explaining the rationale behind the decision, the directive states that drugs on the Narcotics Category 5 list, excluding marijuana and hemp extracts, are now sanctioned for medical consumption and research purposes, reported The Nation.
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From The Thaiger
Former Deputy Prime Minister and chairman of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), General Prawit Wongsuwon, has been exposed for his staggering wealth, including a fleet of luxury cars worth 87 million baht, as reported by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC).
The NACC, responsible for scrutinising the assets of political office-holders and government officials, made public Gen. Prawit’s lavish holdings, sparking widespread media frenzy.
Leading the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), the 78 year old’s financial declaration grabbed headlines, shedding light on his opulent lifestyle and extensive assets, as mandated by his role as SAT board chairman, which requires triennial asset disclosures.
Gen Prawit declared himself “single,” unveiling assets totalling 87.84 million baht, alongside a minor debt of 757 baht. His wealth comprised hefty bank deposits of 40.48 million baht, investments valued at 6.53 million baht, prime real estate in Bangkok and Pathum Thani worth approximately 10 million baht, and a collection of five luxury vehicles valued at 13.6 million baht, among other assets.
The Bangkok-born politician’s reported annual income of 2.34 million baht, including pension sums, living allowances, and previous governmental salaries, paled in comparison to the worth of his assets.
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From Thai PBS World
Srettha and Thaksin meet over cabinet reshuffle
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin met with Thaksin Shinawatra over lunch today in a central Bangkok hotel, amidst speculation over a cabinet reshuffle.
Srettha was accompanied by his deputy, Phumtham Wechayachai, and his secretary general, Prommin Lertsuridej.
Thaksin, who was released on parole from a prison term he was serving on three corruption convictions, is believed to be the one calling the shots in the current political environment.
Srettha is the successful prime ministerial candidate of the Pheu Thai party, which was founded by Thaksin and which has Thaksin’s youngest daughter, Paetongtarn, as its leader.
It is noted that those who participated in today’s lunch are key figures who have long been trusted by Thaksin.
Rumour has it that the lunch was arranged because Srettha has completed his reshuffle list and wishes to get a nod of approval from Thaksin.
Speculation has it that those likely to be removed from the cabinet in this reshuffle include Public Health minister Cholnan Srikaew, Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang and Agriculture minister Chaiya Promma.
Of particular note were his luxury vehicles, notably a Jaguar I-Pace AWD HSE worth 4 million baht and a Mercedes Benz V250d valued at 2.5 million baht, acquired in June 2021 and June 2022 respectively.
Additionally, Gen. Prawit disclosed owning a TW Steel watch valued at around 15,000 baht, nine rings worth approximately 132,000 baht, and a trio of handguns, including a Colt, Sig Sauer, and Smith & Wesson.
This bombshell disclosure follows earlier controversies surrounding Gen. Prawit, notably the Supreme Administrative Court’s order for the NACC to divulge findings from an investigation into allegations of false asset declarations, stemming from a scandal involving a cache of luxury watches and rings, reported Bangkok Post.
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NOTE -- All one but start bitching about overcrowding once they begin arriving.
From Pattaya News
Pattaya Officials Aim to Attract More Chinese Tourists
Pattaya officials participated in the “Pattaya Roadshow to Chengdu 2024” seminar on April 23rd with the aim of attracting more Chinese visitors from Chengdu.
The event, organized by Pattaya City, Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organization, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Pattaya Office, aimed to promote Pattaya’s diverse tourism offerings and strengthen ties with Chinese travel businesses. The seminar was held in Chengdu, China, and was attended by several prominent Thai authorities and Chinese business people.
Ms. Rung Kanjanawiroj, Director of the TAT Chengdu Office, provided valuable insights into the current Chinese tourism landscape to Thai business people. She also showcased
Pattaya’s unique attractions and tourism products to highlight the city’s potential to cater to Chinese travelers.
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It's not that monkeys are more like humans as it is humans are more like monkeys.
They preceded us in evolutionary progression. What else could possibly explain Marjorie Taylor Green.
- Londoner, floridarob and vinapu
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14 minutes ago, macaroni21 said:
So, what does all that mean?
Did Sky Massage hack into and steal OneSpa's line account and client database?
There was an outage not along ago, no?
Short answer: I have no idea. All I can do is report what I've learned as the situation evolves.
However, the old data base does seem to be working as it did in the past when I last checked it this morning.
Hope to do report on the ground in about three weeks or so.
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From CNN
Airline canceled your flight? The plane arrived hours late after a maintenance issue? The inflight Wi-Fi didn’t work?
New federal rules say travelers deserve cash refunds when inconvenienced by their airline – not vouchers or travel credits.
The rules, announced by the Transportation Department on Wednesday, also require airlines to provide upfront information about fees for baggage and changing flights.
Although many airlines have done away with change fees and disclose fees on their websites, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg estimated more transparency with some airlines and websites would make it easier for travelers to shop around – ultimately saving consumers millions every year.
The rule would formalize a requirement that passengers receive refunds if a domestic flight is delayed by more than three hours or if an international flight is delayed by more than six hours.
It would also require a refund of any baggage fees for bags that arrive more than 12 hours late, and a refund of the fee for a purchased service like Wi-Fi or upgraded seating if the airline doesn’t deliver.
https://www.cnn.com/travel/new-federal-rules-airline-refunds-cash/index.html
- KeepItReal and TMax
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From VN Express
Thai transgender beauty queen Kantong Passarapon attends the annual conscription event
in April 2024. Photo from Passarapon's Instagram
The South China Morning Post noted that Kerayuphan and Passarapon, both 21, attended the annual conscription event, held from April 1-12 this year, with the necessary certificates to seek exemption from military service.
Their eye-catching presence at the recruitment center provoked a range of reactions online.
"It feels like a beauty pageant rather than a conscription lottery site," one Instagram user remarked.
"As a woman, I have a feeling of inferiority," another expressed.
A student at Sripatum University in Bangkok and a campus ambassador, Kerayuphan has over 115,000 followers on Instagram.
Endearingly referred to as the "Thai Bay Angel" by her admirers, Passarapon boasts an impressive record with approximately 100 pageant titles to her credit. She is currently studying at Suan Dusit University, as reported by Thaiger.
According to Thai legal regulations, all men aged 21 are obligated to serve in the military, with a possible two-year service term if selected by a lottery during the conscription period. To determine their service obligation, eligible individuals draw cards from an opaque box – a red card signifies enlistment, while a black card means exemption.
This year, the Thai army sought to enlist 40,000 of the 85,000 soldiers needed through this lottery system.
Transgender women are eligible to request an exemption from military service by presenting a certificate of gender reassignment surgery, although they must still appear on the draft day.
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From Richard Barrow Train Guide
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is excited to announce its special tourist train trips for May and June 2024. Passengers will get to experience the KIHA 183 train, under the concepts of “Exploring with the Breeze” in May and “Clear Sky, Open Forest, Diverse Flora” in June. The trips will cover a variety of routes, catering to different interests such as spirituality, nature, and shopping, eating, and relaxing. Trips will be offered on both a day-trip and overnight basis, every Saturday and Sunday for two full months.
Tickets go on sale on April 22, 2024, at 8:30 AM. There are only 202 seats available per trip, so book early! The price includes train fare, air-conditioned bus fare, entrance fees to various attractions, all meals and drinks, and accident insurance. Tickets can be booked at all railway stations nationwide and online through the SRT’s D-Ticket system. For more information, please call the Customer Service Center at 1690, 24 hours a day.
Here is a breakdown of the trips:
May: Exploring with the Breeze
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Trip 1 and 2: Day trips to Saraburi Province (May 4-5)
- Visit Wat Tham Phra Phosat, Sangsuk Market, Phra Phutthabat Noi, and Manasikarn
- Price: 1,499 baht per person
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Trip 3: Overnight trip to Chonburi Province (May 11-12)
- Enjoy the beach, participate in the Night Run On The Beach (Doraemon Run)
- Price: 3,999 baht per person
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Trip 4 and 5: Day trips to Chachoengsao Province (May 18-19)
- Take a boat tour on the Bang Pakong River, visit Wat Wirachot Thammaram, and see the Glass Ubosot
- Price: 1,499 baht per person
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Trip 6: Overnight trip to Phetchaburi Province (May 25-26)
- Visit Mrigadayavan Palace, Phra Phraya Si Phra Kiree Shrine, and enjoy beach activities
- Price: 3,999 baht per person
June: Clear Sky, Open Forest, Diverse Flora
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Trip 7 and 8: Day trips to Lopburi Province (June 1-2)
- Plant rubber trees, build homes for hornbill birds, experience the “Lao Wieng” community, and visit the Singburi Contemporary Museum
- Price: 1,499 baht per person
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Trip 9: Overnight trip to Chachoengsao and Nakhon Nayok Provinces (June 8-9)
- Swim in Nang Rong Waterfall, take a rubber boat ride at Khun Dan Prakan Chon Dam, see the beautiful butterfly garden, and visit Wong Rattana Manee Maha Nakhon Racha Naga Cave
- Price: 3,999 baht per person
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Trip 10 and 11: Day trips to Prachinburi Province (June 15-16)
- Visit Wat Kaew Phitchaya, the Prachinburi National Museum, Khao E-Toh Forest Park, release fish, plant casuarina trees, and shop for local products
- Price: 1,499 baht per person
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Trip 12: Overnight trip to Prachuap Khiri Khan Province (June 22-23)
- Swim at Suan Son Pradipat Beach, visit Rajabhakti Park, Wat Huay Mongkol, Khao Tao Reservoir, and the first Royal Irrigation Project of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej
- Visit the Cicada Market and Hua Hin town
- Price: 3,999 baht per person
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Trip 13 and 14: Day trips to Ayutthaya Province (June 29-30)
- Visit the “Baan Pa” Self-Sufficiency Learning Center, take a boat tour on the Chao Phraya River, see Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, and check in at the Japanese Village
- Price: 1,499 baht per person
If you have any questions about these trips, feel free to join our Asian Train Guide Facebook Group.
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From Thai PBS World
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation has postponed the further capture of macaques in Lop Buri’s Muang district until May, because construction of a huge cage, in which to keep up to 700 monkeys, is not yet complete.
The department’s director-general, Atthaphon Charoenchansa, appealed for understanding from residents in the Muang district, assuring them that the department does not intend to delay the capture the monkeys for longer than necessary and it will continue once the cage at Pho Sam Ton sub-district is ready.
He said that the previous operation focused on capturing the male alphas, with over 30 being caught. The next round of captures will target the general monkey population.
This time, instead of using anaesthetic darts, Atthaphon said that officials will lure the monkeys into two cages, each of which is 1.8 metres tall, 1.8 metres wide and 12 metres long.
The two cages will be placed in front of Asia Hotel and Seng Heng shop, he said, adding that he expects about 10 monkeys are to be captured each time.
About 100 people, including 25 park officials and veterinarians, who will also sterilise the captured monkeys, army personnel from the 13th army circle and municipal officials, will take part in catching as many as 700 monkeys, which will help reduce the problems being caused by these primates in the old town area of the Muang district.
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From Pattaya Mail
Mark Gooding, British ambassador to Thailand since 2021, hosted a community evening at Courtyard by Marriott (North Pattaya) on April 23. He was accompanied by Bangkok-based consul Joanne Finnamore-Crorkin and other senior diplomats including business and trade director Ben Morley. The invited audience were mostly British expats, retired or working or involved in voluntary activities locally.
Mr Gooding confirmed that the embassy was busy in all sections and referred in particular to the Thai-UK Partnership which aims to strengthen the many-sided business relationship ahead of the 170-year anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Joanne was lobbied on the two matters of dire concern to many British expats: frozen UK state pensions in many countries, including Thailand, and the reinterpretation of taxation rules on foreign income by the Thai Revenue. She said that both issues were political decisions beyond the remit of the embassy. However, she had passed on concerns about frozen UK pensions to the relevant authorities back home.
The ambassador explained the months-long delay in the appointment of a new honorary consul for Pattaya was occasioned by bureaucracy in London, but he was hopeful that a formal announcement would be made in the near future. Bert Elson, the existing Pattaya honorary consul, had requested retirement last year but had agreed to carry on until a replacement was announced. Honorary consuls represent the British embassy in various localities, mostly through consular liaison when British nationals are arrested or are seriously ill or die.
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From Pattaya News
In a landmark meeting held at Pattaya City Hall, Mayor Poramese Ngampiches expressed his full support for the LGBTQI+ community, as plans for the Pattaya Community Pride 2024 event were discussed and set into motion.
The meeting, which took place in the afternoon, saw the Mayor welcome Mr. Surang Chanyam, Director of the SWING Service Employees Foundation, and other key figures to outline the event’s vision. The gathering was also attended by Mr. Phumphiphat Kamonnat, Secretary to the Mayor, Mrs. Naanya Chandrakasat, a professional nurse with expertise in disease prevention, and officials from the Department of Public Health and Environment.
Slated for June 8th, 2024, the Pattaya Community Pride event aims to celebrate human rights, sexual equality, and the spirit of diversity. The Jomtien Complex area, known for its picturesque beach nearby, will serve as the backdrop for this vibrant celebration. Representatives from various government and private sectors, including entrepreneurs, stores, clubs, associations, and organizations, are expected to participate.
Mayor Poramese highlighted Pattaya’s rich cultural tapestry, stating, “Pattaya is a city of diversity, home to citizens and tourists from various nationalities and cultures who coexist harmoniously. We are proud to support and host Pattaya Community Pride 2024, showcasing our city’s commitment to inclusivity for all genders and ages.”
In preparation for the event, Mrs. Naanya Chandrakasat will coordinate with the SWING Foundation to ensure the location’s suitability and minimal disruption to residents and tourists. A follow-up meeting is scheduled to finalize the details, emphasizing Pattaya’s dedication to fostering a welcoming environment for everyone.
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From Pattaya News
In a move to boost tourism and economic growth, the Thai cabinet has announced an extension of the visa-free scheme for Russian visitors. Starting May 1st, Russians can enjoy a 60-day visa exemption, but this is shorter than before, replacing the previous 90-day programme set to conclude at April’s end.
Previously, the Thai government had sanctioned a 90-day visa-free period to lure Russian tourists during the peak travel season. With the impending expiration of this programme, the new 60-day exemption is poised to maintain the momentum in attracting visitors from Russia.
TPN media notes that the reduction in timeframe for the visa exemption is not entirely surprising, however, after several viral incidents involving Russian tourists mostly in Phuket and complaints from local residents, also mostly in Phuket, of overtourism.
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From CNBC
Bank of America is bearish on a slew of Asian currencies and neutral at best on others, as the investment bank says it is the start of a “chaotic era.”
“We are not bullish on any currency in Asia,” Bank of America said in a recent report, with many currencies impacted by a delayed Federal Reserve easing cycle and sustained strength in the U.S. dollar
The investment bank singled out the Chinese yuan, South Korean won, Taiwan dollar, Thai baht and Vietnamese dong under its bearish category.
Among their “neutral” list of currencies are the Hong Kong dollar, the Indonesian rupiah, the India rupee, the Malaysian ringgit, the Philippine peso and the Singapore dollar.
Continues at
- floridarob and vinapu
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Trump rally.
- floridarob and t0oL1
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Received LINE messages today from two LINE ID's that claim to be representing One Spa:
"Onespa.love 06"
"Onespa.new".
I sent test messages to both and they both replied that they are same same.
The new website is reported as https://lin.ee/1UOAz35.
When you go there you're invited to scan QR code.
One Spa reports to be open 24/7.
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From Gallup Poll
Russia's disapproval rating fell from a record high of 57% in 2022 to 53% in 2023.
World Leadership Approval Ratings for 2023:
Germany 46%
United States 41%
China 30%
Russia 22%
Sake Pub in Soi Damnoen Klang Tai, Bangkok
in Gay Bangkok
Posted
Although primarily aimed at Thais, it's made the noteworthy effort to post an English language page, too. 😍
https://en-gb.facebook.com/SakePubnew/