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From Thai PBS World
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said yesterday that Thailand is ready to upgrade ties with Vietnam as a comprehensive strategic partnership when he visits Hanoi early next year.
He told Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman, Vuong Dinh Hue, during their bilateral talks that their relations are progressing very rapidly and effectively in all areas.
Thailand and Vietnam are planning to host their fourth joint cabinet meeting next year when both countries will declare their comprehensive strategic partnership.
Hue is on a four-day to Thailand as a guest of the Thai National Assembly. Early, he signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation between the two legislative bodies.
He is scheduled to visit Udon Thaini over the weekend to open the world’s first Vietnam Town and lay a foundation stone for the education and tourism center, which will feature the life and legacy of former Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh.
Both Srettha and Hue reaffirmed their commitment to increase the volume of bilateral trade to US$ 25 billion in 2025.
Thailand is currently the biggest trading partner of Vietnam in Asean, which amounted to US$ 22 billion last year. Furthermore, it is also the second-largest investor in Vietnam valued $14 billion.

I think he's in Argentina wanking away on a mountain 🤣

From The Nation
Thailand’s daily minimum wage is set to increase nationwide from January 1, 2024, in the range of 330 to 370 baht per day according to the province, the Labour Ministry said.
The tripartite committee on minimum wage, comprising representatives of employers, employees and the government sector, met on Friday to finalise the details of minimum wage adjustment across all 77 provinces.
The new rates will be submitted to the Cabinet when it meets next Tuesday (December 12), and will take effect from January 1, Labour Ministry permanent secretary Pairoj Chotikasathien, who chaired the meeting on Friday, said.
The new daily minimum wage by province, from highest to lowest, are as follows:
370 baht: Phuket
363 baht: Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan and Samut Sakhon
361 baht: Chonburi and Rayong
352 baht: Nakhon Ratchasima
351 baht: Samut Songkhram
350 baht: Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Chachoengsao, Prachinburi, Khon Kaen and Chiang Mai
349 baht: Lopburi
348 baht: Suphanburi, Nakhon Nayok and Nong Khai
347 baht: Krabi and Trat
345 baht: Kanchanaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Surat Thani, Songkhla, Phang Nga, Chanthaburi, Sa Kaeo, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Sakon Nakhon, Buri Ram, Ubon Ratchathani, Chiang Rai, Tak and Phitsanulok
344 baht: Phetchaburi, Chumphon and Surin
343 baht: Yasothon, Lamphun and Nakhon Sawan
342 baht: Nakhon Si Thammarat, Bueang Kan, Kalasin, Roi Et and Phetchabun
341 baht: Chai Nat, Singburi, Phatthalung, Chaiyaphum and Ang Thong
340 baht: Ranong, Satun, Loei, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Maha Sarakham, Si Sa Ket, Amnat Charoen, Mae Hong Son, Lampang, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Uthai Thani and Ratchaburi
338 baht: Trang, Nan, Phayao and Phrae
330 baht: Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala
Currently, the lowest minimum wage in Thailand is 328 baht and the highest is 354 baht, varying from province to province. The increase in the daily minimum wage will range from 2 to 16 baht, or an average of 2.4%.
The Pheu Thai-led government had previously promised to raise the minimum wage to 400 baht per day by January 1 as a New Year's gift for workers nationwide. However, in October, the Labour Ministry said this was unlikely to happen after considering several factors, including the inflation rate.

From Thai PBS World
The government’s universal healthcare scheme will make a groundbreaking leap next year, when Thais will be allowed to receive free medical treatment anywhere in their home province, including private hospitals, simply by presenting their national ID card.
“We are revolutionizing the country’s public healthcare. The paradigm will change for the first time in 20 years,” said Dr Surapong Suebwonglee, secretary to the National Healthcare Service Plan Development Committee.
In the initial phase, individuals covered by the healthcare scheme in four pilot provinces, namely Roi Et, Phetchaburi, Phrae and Narathiwat, will be able to enjoy this privilege from January 8. No prior registration is required; members can visit any medical facility and gain treatment by showing their national ID.
“I am fully confident this move will benefit the public,” Roi Et’s public health chief Dr Suradet Chawadet said.
“Let’s see how far we can go with the implementation.”
Hundreds of hospitals and clinics in Roi Et, including 400 private medical facilities, have now integrated their databases for the initial phase of the plan.
If the first phase is successful, the second phase will commence in March, expanding to eight more provinces before being gradually rolled out nationwide within a year.
The universal healthcare scheme, launched in 2001 as the brainchild of the Thai Rak Thai Party (TRT) government, has evolved significantly. Initially costing users 30 baht per visit, it marked a breakthrough in Thailand’s healthcare sector by providing free or low-cost medical services.
The scheme, now covering some 48 million people, offers a guarantee of accessible healthcare provided by the state.
Gone are the days when ailing people had to worry about being financially ruined by medical costs or being denied treatment if they or their family had no proof they could cover their bills.
Continues at
https://www.thaipbsworld.com/treatment-anywhere-a-new-era-dawns-for-thailands-universal-healthcare-scheme/
 

They can call me whatever they want.  I call them "prostitutes", in Brazil or Thailand. You do realize they are prostitutes and you are a customer, don't you?

From Reuters
China on Friday cut visa fees by 25% for travellers from countries including Thailand, Japan, Mexico, Vietnam, and the Philippines from December 11 2023 to December 31 2024, according to statements from the Chinese foreign ministry and embassies.
The policy so far covers hundreds of millions of travellers from over a dozen countries and will make it cheaper for them to get a visa to travel to China
This is the latest in a slew of measures China has recently taken to increase inbound travel from foreign tourists and business people amid a sputtering recovery in the world's second-largest economy.
Last month, China announced to temporarily exempt citizens of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia from needing visas to visit the world’s second-largest economy to boost post-pandemic tourism.

From Pattaya News
The Marine Department is requesting a budget of 285 million baht to facilitate its ambitious plan to renew the Na Baan Pier on Koh Larn to increase safety and boost Pattaya’s tourism.
The major upgrade project for Koh Larn’s pier will be funded over three years and is expected to be fully completed by 2026, according to Mr. Kritphet Chaichuay, Inspector General of the Ministry of Transport and Acting Director-General of the Marine Department.
With a total budget of 285 million baht pulled from three fiscal years: 57 million baht in 2024, 114 million baht in 2025, and 114 million baht in 2026, the scheme is expected to be able to support the growing number of Bali Hai Pier visitors, hopefully from 6,000-7,000 visitors currently on weekdays and 8,000-10,000 on weekends to 30,000 per day in the future.
The existing pier, established in 1968, will undergo several upgrades including:
Demolition of the existing pier and construction of a temporary pier Building of a permanent pier with dimensions of 198 x 14 meters Building of a waiting shelter Construction of six concrete pontoons Construction of two sets of level-adjustable piers

From Agence France Presse
Beijing, China – China on Thursday slammed what it called the “smearing” of its Belt and Road infrastructure project after Italy said it would withdraw four years after it became the only G7 nation to sign up.
An Italian government source confirmed to AFP on Wednesday that Rome had pulled out of the initiative. Proponents of the BRI praise it for bringing resources and economic growth to the Global South.
But critics have long pointed to opaque pricing for projects built by Chinese companies, with countries including Malaysia and Myanmar renegotiating deals to bring down costs.

Very true. I believe that in the USA, on a number of occasions, the candidate with the most votes, eg Hilary Clinton, got the most votes, but lost, due to the outdated electoral college system. 

From Pattaya News
In a major operation early this morning, December 7th, officials from the Banglamung District Office and Pattaya Police Station raided the “4 Step Tomboy” nightclub on Pattaya Third Road.
Acting on orders from Mr. Phisit Sawatdinukul, the Banglamung district chief, Ms. Kamolchanok Konsombat, the district chief secretary, led the operation at around 3:30 AM.
The raid was prompted by numerous public complaints alleging that the establishment operated beyond legal hours and permitted the use of illegal narcotics on the premises. Upon arriving at the club, authorities found over 100 patrons dancing to loud music. The officials intervened, stopped the music, illuminated the place, and separated male and female patrons.
According to Banglamung district officials, the venue’s floor was strewn with plastic bags containing substances resembling narcotics. Officials also found suspicious plastic bags in garbage bins and suspected that they may have been discarded by the partygoers inside the venue when police raided the club.
As a result, the officials ran urine tests on every person in the venue and uncovered that 17 individuals tested positive for illegal drugs – 9 males and 8 females.
Further investigation revealed that the establishment also lacked the proper licensing documentation to operate. Those responsible for the nightclub and individuals who tested positive for drugs were apprehended and taken into custody. They will face further investigation and legal proceedings, although they were not immediately identified to the press.

Siam Heritage Hotel -- I just stayed there on the tail end of last trip I booked a room for 2 with breakfast through Agoda. At cheek-in I was alone but was issued two keys, even through I was unaccompanied.
I had no problem bringing in ST guests. However, if you bring a guest to breakfast, hotel will require that the guest register .And that can be the only guest you can register during your stay. (since I had booked room for 2, I was not charged any additional fee).
On the desk of my room there was a notice that stated that any guest would be assessed a 900 baht fee. It was the same notice that was there about 15 years ago when I last stayed at this place.
The rooms are well equipped with comfortable bed, excellent shower for 2 and quiet AC. Ask for a room in the bak that are more distant from noise of Surawong. Small pool and fitness center on top floor (9).
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Montien Hotel -- Of the hotels mentioned above, I believe the only one with no-guest policy is the Montien. It has a new wing and draws mainly upscale Chinese and Thai-Chinese clientele.
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Amara Hotel -- No problem at all with guests. Great rooftop pool with plenty of lounge chairs if that's important. Recommended.

From Pattaya Mail
Myths about Thai expats and those income tax changes starting very soon
By Barry Kenyon
Most expats in Thailand live on income or capital, or both, built up over many years with tax already paid in the country of passport. They are understandably worried by the imminent change in Thai Revenue practice – it is not a new law passed by parliament – which will potentially tax new and assessable foreign-sourced income beginning in January 2024. Pattaya Mail has received more concerned reader feedback about this issue than any other during 2023. With inauguration day fast approaching, here is our summary for the typical expat who does not indulge in major currency speculation, huge profit-taking from overseas businesses nor off-shore bank accounts hiding their cash.
Has the Thai Revenue clarified the position of typical expats? No. It is commonly assumed that the Revenue is mainly interested in rich Thais and foreigners who have manipulated Thai tax rules in the past to avoid payments from overseas. Typical expats with home-country pensions or social security allowances are not part of this agenda, though in theory they could be caught in the crossfire. Talks are continuing between senior accountancy firms, lobby groups and the Revenue about this and other issues. Don’t expect answers any time soon.
Will my international cash transfers to Thailand from January 1 2024 be reduced on arrival by a Bank of Thailand tax levy? No. There will not be any changes from current practice. You pay tax in arrears in Thailand by registering at the Revenue for a tax identification number and paying tax due, if any, in the next fiscal year. There is no PAYE procedure in Thailand. The misunderstanding that Thailand will tax international transfers as the cash arrives is a widespread misconception
hould I apply for a tax identification number? Not unless you receive an instruction from a government source or the immigration, both very unlikely scenarios. It is almost certain that, at any rate in the early years, tax registration will be voluntary. If you believe you have been taxed already on your cash sent to Thailand, it’s best to do nothing now. There is no need to employ the services of tax accountants if you are a typical expat (unless working here on a work permit which is a separate subject). The tax situation as regards cash sent to Thailand to purchase property is a separate source of ambiguity.
Most countries with expats here have a double taxation treaty with Thailand, so is that relevant? That depends on the exact wording of complex documents which differ substantially one from another. Double taxation treaties are designed to be used only in cases where Thailand and the first country cannot agree on who has the right to tax. If Thai Revenue were to clarify unambiguously that previously taxed income would not be retaxed, the issue would largely die.
If I need to later, how will I prove that my cash transfers to Thailand have already been taxed? This will vary on an individual basis. An expat’s tax return or the response by the internal revenue service of the first country might suffice, or a simple statement on a tax form might be acceptable. Few experts, if any, believe that the Thai Revenue has the staffing or the expertise to deal with more than 300,000 expats who are tax residents because they spend more than 180 days here in a fiscal year. It bears repeating that the registration process will likely be voluntary. The Thai government is looking for the big fish, Thai or foreign, and not the small fry.
What is the Thai government really up to? The new post-coup government simply wants to raise cash, in part to help pay for its populist policies such as the 10,000 baht give away scheme. One can assume that nobody in authority has yet thought seriously about the effects of the change on the expat market here and the potential unpopularity amongst long-term visa holders including one year retirement extensions, Elite and the 10 year Long Term Residence. If you are an expat living in Thailand for at least half the year, without any major financial secrets to keep from Thai Revenue, then it’s best to do nothing until the situation is clearer. That’ll take several months yet. But no point in packing your bags in disgust and leaving for Cambodia. They are a CRS country too.

Being close to power is a big thing for many and it gives them the ability to get some things they want. There will always be someone willing to step into those roles to get more power. But, with Trump, they will get crazier each time and then, watch out, as we will be in for a wild ride.

I agree completely. What I'll never understand is who would ever want to work for Trump. Everyone has got to know that all Trump will do is make the people who work for him try to cover up his mistakes, then get thrown under the bus when they get caught. Surely people have to know Trump will always be the sleaze who will turn on anyone who even helps him. I have no sympathy for the Michael Cohens of the world. MC knew he was dealing with a fraudster and a liar. No boo-hoos when he finds himself in prison, having been even stiffed for his legal bills. Anyone who associates with and assists someone as morally bereft as Trump obviously is should not be surprised when the inevitable happens to him. 

It's a very old hotel, has been there for over 40 years maybe. I once toyed the possibility but was told that no joiners allowed.
Speaking of which, I'd like to ask others who have stayed in some other hotels. Which of these forbid or tax joiners? 
Amara, 
56 Surawong,
Le Siam,
De Arni.
I have read on this forum that Siam Heritage does not allow joiners. 
I am thinking of amending my map to show hotel symbols in different colours depending on whether they are joiner-friendly. I think that will be useful.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Oops, PeterRS got in the way 😲 when I wrote "it's a very old hotel", I was referring to the Montien.

See I don't really like people, so meeting new ones doesn't hold a lot of attraction for me. The entertainment doesn't really change much. The ships do the same itineraries over and over. I suppose it's better than a retirement home, but if you require a lot of care the ship isn't going to be equipped to provide it for you. I haven't priced retirement homes but cruises aren't exactly cheap. The doctor on board can handle some emergencies but it's not like your primary care doctor's office. If you're in good health it's fine. But if you need nursing care the cruise line isn't going to help you.

What I still find fascinating is that people know who Putin is and what he does and what he stands for and they still stand by him. But, it is no different than those that know who Trump is, know what he does and still stands by him.
I seem to have lost a sense of logic in the world that I can't fathom how I'll ever get it back. Politics is politics the world over but facts are also facts and the way some believe believe lie after lie or forgive lie after lie, is truly unbelievable to me. I have to be missing something.

Well, I haven't looked at all of the cases, but in these two defenestration cases, they were obviously not suicide--and it's been made very clear they weren't. No one checks into a hospital to commit suicide by jumping out of a window, for one, and the turning off of the security cameras was the other huge clue that the FSB was responsible. The other (journalist) case is even more clear-cut. Obviously, no one goes grocery shopping, then throws his groceries in the stairway, takes off his shoes, pulls up his sweater and jacket above his shoulders, then crashes through a window in his apartment. Any one of those factors rules out a suicide. The refusal of emergency services to intervene was the icing on the cake. The whole point is that Putin wants to make it as clear as possible that these are NOT suicides. He wants everyone to get the message: if you have the public's ear and you speak against me, I will kill you and laugh in your face about it. The goal is to make it quite obvious that these are not suicides, but will be labeled as such. I'm sure Putin gets a good chuckle after all of these deaths. 

Also: Gal. 3:23-25 "However, before the faith arrived, we were being guarded under law, being handed over into custody, looking to the faith that was about to be revealed. 24 So the Law became our guardian leading to Christ, so that we might be declared righteous through faith. 25 But now that the faith has arrived, we are no longer under a guardian."

Well, even Paul himself said (Romans 7:6) "But now we have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter." The New Testament clearly teaches that Christians do not have to follow the old laws of Leviticus. If you read Leviticus, it is absolutely chock-full of laws/edicts that Christians don't follow, so it's a bit crazy to pick one out and say "but you have to follow this one." Not everyone agrees with the translation/interpretation that Paul condemned homosexuality. If he did, though, he was the only apostle to do so, and Jesus Himself certainly did not. 

From @Tomtravel 's post, you obviously didn't get the joke that the locals blame every problem on Spain! 🤣