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I wouldn't worry about it; you're peers are probably all doing the same thing but just opt not to talk about it, either. Prostitution is an equal opportunity exercise. It's those who don't use prostitutes from time to time that are most likely to become predators.

From Firstpost China is trying to get to Taiwan any which way possible: now, they have allegedly tried to bribe a Taiwan army pilot to steal a US-made Chinook heavy-lift helicopter, but the accused Colonel has been arrested. The deal was worth $15 million. As per reports, the lieutenant colonel surnamed Hsieh, was approached by Chinese officers who asked him to fly a CH-47F Chinook helicopter to a Chinese aircraft carrier in the Taiwan Strait. They offered Hsieh to evacuate his family to Thailand in the event of a cross-strait conflict. Initially, Hsieh declined the offer, but accepted when he was offered half the cost of the helicopter, a whooping $15 million. The defection to China was uncovered by investigators in April and Hsieh and others involved were arrested subsequently. Continues at https://www.firstpost.com/world/why-china-offered-a-taiwan-army-pilot-15-million-and-ticket-to-thailand-13495662.html

From The Diplomat Nico Mesterharm has spent more than 15 years as director of Meta House in Phnom Penh, producing films, plays, and books, while offering a stage for aspiring local and international artists who have rebuilt Cambodia’s arts scene with the backing of foreign donors. However, Cambodia is no longer a struggling post-war country nor is it a major recipient of foreign aid, with conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza grabbing the majority of the world’s attention. For that reason, finding backers to support fresh projects in Cambodia is proving difficult but Mesterharm still has a number of works in the pipeline, including the documentary “Fraternal Help,” which details the lives of some of the 4,000 Cambodians who found refuge in the former East Germany in the 1980s. Mesterharm spoke with The Diplomat’s Luke Hunt about the relationship between Germany and Cambodia, the Khmer Rouge, and what left-wing intellectuals did not want to believe about the country. He also has some advice about what international audiences expect from Southeast Asian and Cambodian artists and how the dynamics of funding has changed, particularly for young filmmakers. Mesterharm is also acting director of the Cambodian-German Cultural Association, co-founder of Krossover Media Berlin, and a member of the International Academy at the Free University of Berlin. In 2018, he was awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany. Continues at https://thediplomat.com/2023/12/making-art-and-finding-an-edge-in-cambodia/

From Pattaya News Giant Light Towers Installed on Na Jomtien Beach en massive light towers have been put up on Na Jomtien Beach to increase visibility at night and please beachgoers. The 2.1-million-baht project is funded by tax revenue and commenced on September 27th, 2023, and scheduled for completion on December 25th, under the responsibility of Double M International Company Limited, the contractor. According to Na Jomtien mayor Ms. Rapeepan Ratanaliam, the project involves the installation of 10 light towers, each standing at a height of 20 meters along with control boxes. Each tower is equipped with eight powerful high-mast lights, which will illuminate the beach area and surrounding roads to enhance safety and security for tourists visiting during evening hours. Ms. Rapeepan highlighted Na Jomtien Beach’s popularity among tourists who visit to enjoy the natural beauty and relax. She emphasized that many tourists choose to visit during evening and night hours, making the installation of brighter lights crucial for their safety. Additionally, the project aims to create a visually appealing nighttime atmosphere on the beach in order to attract even more visitors, she said.

From Thai PBS World The Cabinet agreed today to exempt Japanese businessmen making business trips to Thailand, of no longer than 30 days, from requiring a visa. Deputy government spokesman Kharom Phonpornklang said that this visa exemption will come into force on January 1 and last until December 31, 2026. He said that the measure is intended to facilitate travel to Thailand by Japanese businessmen, adding that Japan has advanced technology in green industries, medical science, biology and the digital economy, among other areas, and Thailand wants Japanese investors to explore new business opportunities in Thailand.

You were both happy with the outcome so that's really all that matters, no? I'm sure it wasn't the first time he's had such an off. I know two guys who work Soi 6. They have a regular out-of-town client who offs them both just to meet him at his hotel to strip down and drink with him for a few hours. Since they both are conversational in English, all leave happy.

ASEAN residents are treated differently than those from other countries. Many have work permits (that exempt them from frequent border runs) if they are working construction and some other type of manual labor.

The business in Patpong One among food vendors is improving. Numerous small vendors have taken over stands formerly occupied by merchandise sellers at the Silom end. One of the old cafeteria restaurants that previously serviced the workers has set up many tables outside on the soi and is doing well. I estimate the first 20% of the soi is now given over to food offerings of all sorts, drawing a varied crowd.

On Fast Track- Since I'm in the 70+ group, I've found that this always works well for us seniors. Take advantage of the benefit. On tipping massage boys -- The only shops outside of Silom that I regularly use are in Saphan Kwai where most shops have an 800-1,000 minimum tip. If I receive what I consider very satisfactory service I add 200 (especially if they shower after with me). Have never had anyone in SK ask for more. I generally follow the same policy in shops with no minimum. I believe superior service should be rewarded. On big spenders -- It was just a dozen days ago when I witnesed just how much some Asian women can distribute. One young lady was celebrating her birthday with some friends at Hot Male beer bar and I understand her liquor tab alone was about 5k. The waiters joined in the festivities and were well tipped. There are also regular male customers who'll off a few waiters just to sit with him and drink. Others take a few off for dancing or karaoke. It comes down to what the customers enjoys and can afford. For you Jupiter regulars, such stuff is commonplace. The spontaneous behavior is another reason the bars offer opportunity that the apps cannot do at the spur of the moment. Reservations not required.

I believe they are part of a long-established community of expats.

From VN Express Located in Thailand’s Udon Thani Province, Vietnam Town introduces Vietnamese culture and cuisine to both the Thai community and international tourists. Thailand's first officially-recognized Vietnam Town was inaugurated last Saturday in the northeastern province of Udon Thani as part of National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue (L)'s visit to Thailand. Hue said he believed that with the strong support of the local administration, the town will see bustling business and thriving cultural and tourism activities, both of which will thus make it a destination for Vietnamese in Thailand as well as other international tourists. He said this would contribute to enriching the local culture and fostering the friendship and bonds between locals and Thai people of Vietnamese origin in the locality. Vietnam Town is located at Alley No. 2 on Si Suk Street in Udon Thani City, about 550 km from Bangkok. Udon Thani has long been home to vibrant communities of Vietnamese expats in Thailand. There are currently about 60,000 Vietnamese in the province. Vietnam Town initially took shape years ago, but the community has just recently received 3 million Thai baht support from the local government to upgrade the local infrastructure system. Almost all business households there are of Vietnamese origin. The welcome gate area features a traditional Vietnamese roof and details of ancient Vietnam’s bronze drums. Vietnam Town is currently open daily from 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., selling Vietnamese specialties such as such as banh gio (Vietnamese pyramid rice dumplings), banh duc (rice cakes made of rice flour infused with lime water), banh beo (water fern cake), fried pancakes, steamed rice rolls, fried spring rolls and tofu. Udon Thani is served by low-cost airlines such as Nok Air or Air Asia, which offer daily domestic flights from Bangkok that take just one hour. Round-trip ticket prices range from VND1.2 million-1.5 million. Visitors can also choose Bangkok buses and trains with travel times of about 8-9 hours. Ticket prices start at around $20.

From The Thaiger The Immigration Bureau (IB) announced that Suvarnabhumi International Airport’s automated channels are now accessible to foreigners to alleviate congestion for outbound travel. This decision, effective from December 15, aligns with the Prime Minister’s directive, enforced by Srettha Thavasin, to enhance the outbound immigration system. The move is aimed at reducing the density of passengers who need to rush to catch their flights, echoing the government’s tourism promotion policy. Today, Lieutenant Police General Itthiphon Itthisanronnachai, Chief of the Immigration Bureau, divulged that the IB has developed an automated channel or an automatic passport control system for departures at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Initially, it could only check Thai passport holders, but from December 15, it will also accommodate foreign passport holders. The automated channel system for departures at Suvarnabhumi Airport, in operation since 2012, comprises 16 machines primarily used to check Thai passengers. The process, which includes cross-checking faces and fingerprints, takes approximately 20 seconds per person. In comparison, manual checking by officers takes about 45 seconds per person. However, foreign nationals using the automated channel system must hold E-Passports that meet the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which has over 70 member countries with approximately 30,000 outbound travellers daily. In July, Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited will purchase an automated channel system to replace the existing 12-year-old system at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, both inbound and outbound. At Suvarnabhumi, about 80 machines will be installed for international departures, compared to the current 16 machines, and 16 machines will replace the existing ones for international arrivals. At Don Mueang Airport, eight machines will be installed to replace the current four machines for international departures and arrivals. The upgraded system will be more modern, accurate, and faster. =================== This is an old video dating from time when first automated gates were installed for foreigners from a limited number of countries.

From Pattaya Mail In a bid to enhance tourism and safety, the beach in Na Jomtien, Pattaya’s neighboring beach, has undergone a significant transformation. News reporters visited the site on December 10, to witness the completion of a beach restoration project initiated under the “Adding Sand, Restoring White Sandy Beaches” program. The project, overseen by the Port Authority, strategically widened the beach by an impressive 50 meters, successfully completing the first phase. This development not only provides additional space for beachgoers but also prevents erosion caused by waves, ensuring a sustainable and attractive coastal environment. The Na Jomtien subdistrict municipality, the key player in managing the beach area, has concurrently undertaken a project to improve safety and aesthetics. This includes the relocation of electric poles and the installation of high mast lighting poles. Ten towering high masts with eight lights each, standing at 20 meters each, have been strategically placed. The total budget for this initiative amounts to 2,177,000 baht. Double M International Co., Ltd., the contracted construction company, commenced operations on September 27, with a scheduled completion date of December 25. The comprehensive project aims to not only cater to daytime tourists but also create a secure and visually appealing atmosphere for those who choose to explore the beach during the evening. Miss Raphiphan Rattanaleiam, the Mayor of Na Jomtien, emphasized the global popularity of the beach as a sought-after destination for relaxation. The addition of high mast lights is expected not only to enhance safety for evening travelers but also to contribute to the overall visual appeal of the beach after sunset. The local authorities anticipate a surge in tourism in the coming weeks, attributing the increased interest to the completed project. As tourists continue to flock to the area for both daytime relaxation and evening strolls, the economic impact on local businesses and tourism is expected to be substantial.

From Pattaya News Santi Promphat, deputy minister of public health, announced after the committee’s meeting that bars and nightclubs must strictly obey the rules and regulations when they are allowed to operate until 4 AM, starting on December 15th, to ensure patrons safety and minimize alcohol-related incidents. Entertainment venues in legal zones in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chonburi, Bangkok and Surat Thani (only on Koh Samui) will be given this privilege, which also applies to hotels nationwide. Santi stressed that operators are to specifically follow the Entertainment Place Act and Section 29 of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, which prevent nighttime venues from selling alcoholic beverages to people under 20 years old. He went on to say that venue operators will be required to conduct breathalyzer tests on patrons. If customers’ alcohol level is above the legal limit of 50 milligrams per deciliter, they will need to rest at the areas provided by the venues until they are sober enough to drive home. In the event that a customer refuses to rest and has a breath alcohol level exceeding the legal limit, the bar operators must contact the customer’s friends or relatives or hail public transport to arrange for their transportation at the customer’s expense. Relevant agencies will collect data to assess the impact of extended operating hours. TPN Media notes it is unclear how this plan is expected to be enforced and many entertainment venue business owners have already brought up many issues, including logistical, with breathalyzing every customer leaving a venue as well as to who would be responsible for paying for the equipment and what to do if a customer refuses the test.

Thank you for your detailed report. I think the best advice you could receive was supplied (above) by Macaroni21: remain in the Silom/Surawong area for short stays like you had. Everything you need to satisfy your curiosity is right there for the taking. Travel time between venues is measured in minutes.

IMO, the Hot Male beer bar on street level of Patpong 2 has moved in the right direction. The effort is not on showcasing boys in skimpy underwear but an ample supply of friendly and attractive waiters and bartenders who act more as "hosts" and are open to conversing with customers without being pushy. They are offable (500) just as the guys who work in the HM go-go upstairs. For the solo customer, they can help you feel comfortable. For returning customers, they easily become familiar faces to welcome you back. Drink prices are reasonable and you can enjoy watching the ever-changing flow of foot traffic along with views of the boys from SOL bar across the soi who display themselves on the balcony when not on display inside. Btw, the SOL boys are free to join you for a drink at your table.

From The Nation Illegal laughing gas was spotted being openly sold at a cannabis shop on busy Walking Street in Pattaya on Sunday night, despite regular police patrols in the area. The Nation was tipped off that the shop, which sells legal marijuana products, was selling balloons filled with nitrous oxide (laughing gas) on the popular tourism street in the seaside town. A check at the shop revealed that staff inside were selling nitrous oxide balloons to both Thai and foreign tourists. The shop was also displaying a sign reading: “Happy balloon. Buy 10, get 2 free balloons and one glass of beer.” Nitrous oxide is used as a sedative in certain medical and dental procedures. It induces a mild sense of euphoria, often accompanied by giggling fits – hence the nickname “happy gas”.

From The Nation With most vaccinated people developing none or very mild symptoms when infected by the Omicron variant of Covid-19, many are choosing to stay isolated at home. However, how long should the infected stay isolated to ensure they are free of the virus and can safely interact with others? In a Facebook post on Monday, leading virologist Dr Yong Poovorawan said studies show that the virus count starts to drop sharply seven days after the symptoms are first observed. The studies cited have been published in the Journal of the American Medical Association and New England Journal of Medicine. “After 10 days, the viral load will be extremely low and too weak to be transmitted to others. Hence, the suitable period for self-isolation is at least 10 days from when the symptoms appeared or when you tested positive,” Yong said. “If you can’t complete the 10-day requirement, then at least isolate for seven days and then employ strict preventive measures when interacting with others in the following three days to prevent the spread of the virus.”

From Thai PBS World January 1st as a special case to promote tourism, Traisuree Traisoranakul, spokesperson of the Interior Ministry, said Monday. She also said that Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has signed a regulation to allow such licenced premises in Bangkok, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Ko Samui to stay open until 4am from December 15th, instead of the current 2am closing time. Traisuree went on to say that Anutin has instructed all relevant units of the Interior Ministry to coordinate with local authorities, such as the police and security agencies, to ensure the safety of patrons of entertainment venues, maintain public order for the sake of those who live close to entertainment establishments, adding that the police have been instructed to enforce the drunk driving laws strictly.

The great thing about staying in the Silom area is that all of the things you've mentioned are available within walking distance. From Patpong, you can be on Silom Soi 6 where you can choose from among 70+ massage guys after a seven minute walk. Even less to Soi 4 and Moonlight. Foodland is a minute away and other restaurants all within 5-10 minutes. Hotels from budget to splurge are at your fingertips Last boys I saw dancing were at Fresh Boy and they're best described as energetic.

From The Star PHNOM PENH (Phnom Penh Post/ANN): The aroma of spices, the sizzle of frying pans and the buzz of excitement filled the air at The Elysee Koh Pich, as the NhamFesta food festival kicked off in Phnom Penh this weekend. The 12-day event, which will run every Friday to Sunday until December 31, showcases the diverse cuisines, flavours and culinary traditions of Cambodia and its fellow Asean countries. Thousands of food lovers, both local and foreign, flocked to the opening day of the festival to enjoy the delectable dishes, chill out in the festive atmosphere and marvel at the presence of famous Cambodian chefs, celebrities, singers and influencers. The food festival is hosted by Unbox Marketing, a Phnom Penh-based boutique advertising and creative agency, and leading real estate developer Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC). The Phnom Penh Post collaborates as a media partner. The Elysee Koh Pich, a new and elegant venue inspired by the French-style Parisian streets, was chosen as the location for the event. OCIC deputy CEO Touch Samnang explained that the venue was carefully designed to attract tourists and provide a new place in Phnom Penh for nightlife leisure and recreation. "We created The Elysee Koh Pich with a wide walking thoroughfare which is nearly 1km long. The space is capable of hosting thousands of people, and we also have underground parking,” he said.

From Simply Flying A Taiwanese man is facing charges after being caught smuggling live animals in his pants at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok last week. Authorities discovered three animals – two otters and a prairie dog taped under the traveler's boxer shorts after security guards became suspicious of a prominent, wobbling bulge below his waist. It comes after another animal smuggling incident occurred at the same airport two months ago. Thailand has reportedly been a hotspot for illegal wildlife trafficking of various animals into China. According to Newsflare, the 22-year-old man was traveling from Bangkok to Taipei, Taiwan, on Thai Airways flight 632 on December 5. Prior to arriving at BKK and checking in for his flight, the traveler bought the animals from a market in Bangkok and crammed them underneath his pants. Going through the international outbound zone 2 passenger security checkpoint, staff reportedly raised concerns about the man's "unusually large package" that was moving below his waist, prompting them to notify colleagues operating the X-ray machines. A Taiwanese man is facing charges after being caught smuggling live animals in his pants at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok last week. Authorities discovered three animals – two otters and a prairie dog taped under the traveler's boxer shorts after security guards became suspicious of a prominent, wobbling bulge below his waist. It comes after another animal smuggling incident occurred at the same airport two months ago. Thailand has reportedly been a hotspot for illegal wildlife trafficking of various animals into China. According to Newsflare, the 22-year-old man was traveling from Bangkok to Taipei, Taiwan, on Thai Airways flight 632 on December 5. Prior to arriving at BKK and checking in for his flight, the traveler bought the animals from a market in Bangkok and crammed them underneath his pants. Going through the international outbound zone 2 passenger security checkpoint, staff reportedly raised concerns about the man's "unusually large package" that was moving below his waist, prompting them to notify colleagues operating the X-ray machines. They stopped the passenger and held him for scans, which revealed the live critters teetering around under his pants. Officers then pulled the man aside to conduct a strip search and discovered the two Asian small-clawed otters and a prairie dog concealed in black socks and taped beneath the man's designer boxer shorts. The passenger was taken into custody and missed his flight. He was reportedly arrested at 9:05, according to Phakkapong Phathong, the airport's Animal Quarantine Chief, while his flight to Taoyuan International Airport in Taipei on a Boeing 777-300ER departed at 08:15. The passenger was reportedly detained at BKK's Police Station and faces charges of violating sections of Thailand's Customs Act, Animal Epidemics Act, and Animal Conservation and Protection Act. The rescued animals were handed over to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, where they were treated by the Wildlife Conservation Office.

From Pattaya Mail A wave of frustration and discontent has swept over Pattaya, as residents and tourists alike have voiced their concerns over the rampant illegal activities that plague the city. Several issues, ranging from illegal parking to public smoking and marijuana use, have raised questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement in Pattaya. The city, which is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment industry, has also been facing problems such as street vendors and fireworks sellers on the beach, roadside food stalls, begging, especially with children, foreigners selling flowers at night, women engaged in solicitation, double-parked taxis, and sidewalk obstructions. These issues pose safety risks and inconvenience to both residents and tourists, and also tarnish the city’s image as a tourist-friendly destination. Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, who is in charge of maintaining order in Pattaya, has the power to enforce cleanliness regulations directly. However, in matters where direct legal enforcement is difficult, he needs to coordinate with relevant agencies to address the issues. Residents and tourists alike have expressed the urgent need for a comprehensive and effective approach to tackle these problems. They fear that if these concerns are not addressed, Pattaya may lose its competitive edge as a tourist destination. The call is clear: a sincere and collaborative effort is required to uphold the city’s reputation and make it a safe and appealing place for all. ======================= From Pattaya News Youths Cause Chaos, Throw Bottles at Bang Lamung Venue At 10:00 PM, on December 8th, 2023, Thai reporters received a report from a pub owner that youths caused a ruckus by throwing bottles and ranting at the Gold Monkey Pub in Bang Lamung, Chonburi. Mrs. Amphira F, the pub owner, stated to Thai reporters that on December 8th many foreign customers were at the venue when two unidentified youths rode by on a motorbike throwing bottles, and shouting at the venue as shown on CCTV footage. Amphira said to the reporters that she had no rivals and no prior conflicts with anyone. As a result, some foreign customers chaotically ran away and checked their bills immediately right after the situation settled down, said Amphira, costing the business money. The customers were reportedly afraid the youths would return and cause violence. Amphira handed CCTV footage capturing the moment the incident happened of two youths aged between 20 to 25 years causing the ruckus to the local police as evidence. However, there were reportedly no further updates from the police as of press time, said Amphira. Amphira pleaded for justice from the police to hold the suspects accountable for their crimes.

From Thai PBS World A pub in Bangkok’s Ram Inthra area was ordered closed for five years as an initial penalty after it was found to have been operating with an expired license for the last three years, and more than 120 of its patrons failed drug screening late Saturday night. A police source said that the raid on the “Sonic” pub was carried out after the Interior Ministry learned that the pub often stays open beyond the 2am legal closing time and that illegal drugs were available there. Some customers tried to flee, but were rounded up by the officials. All 214 patrons in the premises at the time of the raid were searched and tested for drugs, which returned 122 positive results. Officials found many “baggies” scattered on the floor, which are commonly used for the distribution of illegal recreational substances. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul who was at the scene told the media that the pub has rooms specifically for customers who wish to take drugs. Crystal meth, Ecstasy, Ketamine and “Happy Water” were found on the premises. Happy Water is a colourless and odourless synthetic drug in liquid form, which is usually mixed with methamphetamine or Ketamine. He also said that police will identify who the real owner of this venue is, adding the raid will not affect the government’s plan to extend licencing hours for entertainment establishments until 4am, effective December 15th.

I've heard that rumor about various Bangkok venues past and present. One more reason the power brokers who actually own these clubs have an interest in keeping them going. Others in their circle run very different "businesses" to gain the very same benefits. They have skin in the game so it becomes a "go along to get along" situation for all concerned.