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CNN — Donald Trump won back the Oval Office and took charge of the government amid the strongest poll numbers of his political career, but as the 100-day mark of his presidency approaches, Americans’ views of what he’s done so far have turned deeply negative, a new CNN poll conducted by SSRS finds. Trump’s 41% approval rating is the lowest for any newly elected president at 100 days dating back at least to Dwight Eisenhower – including Trump’s own first term. Approval of Trump’s handling of the presidency is down 4 points since March, and 7 points lower than it was in late February. Just 22% say they strongly approve of Trump’s handling of the job, a new low, and about twice as many say they strongly disapprove (45%). https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/27/politics/approval-rating-trump-100-days/index.html

There are probably more than a few involved in the construction of the collapsed high rise waiting to find out.

Phoenix Massage has posted a new video of what appears to be its complete line up, featuring some new masseurs. Found it well worth viewing. The LINE ID is Phoenix25. (If you're unable to locate video, send them a text and they can send it to you).

Moe is great example of how ASEAN workers contribute to the Thai economy by filling jobs left wanting by locals. Beyond his appearance and engaging manner, his skills help Poseidon maintain its culinary reputation.

NOTE -- I have no interest in visiting Michelin starred restaurants but this place is so offbeat that it proved worth the time. From CBS Anglo Thai is London's only Michelin-starred Thai restaurant. Chef John Chantarasak has drawn on his family history to create an award-winning culintary experience and put a unique spin on Thai food. https://www.cbsnews.com/video/london-chef-puts-unique-twist-on-thai-classics/#x

This is among the saddest crime I've posted about since I joined the forum. It illustrates the dangers anyone in the flesh trade faces when they agree to go to the room of an unknown customer. ===== Extract from Pattaya News Maj. Gen. Thawatchakiat personally oversaw the reenactment, which is required in major criminal cases as part of Thai law. The suspect stated that he brought the victim to the room, agreed on a price of 8,000 baht for intimate services, and paid her in advance. However, when the victim resisted during an intimate moment, a heated argument ensued. The suspect demanded half the money back, but the victim refused, leading to a violent altercation. The victim allegedly scratched the suspect’s face and kicked him, breaking one of his front teeth. Enraged, the suspect said he pulled the victim to the side of the bed, pressed his left knee against her neck until she died, and then dragged her body to the bathroom. Using scissors, he stabbed her abdomen, slashed up to her chest, removed her breast implants, and placed her heart on her left shoulder. He has tried to claim this was self defense, but police are unsurprisingly skeptical. See full report at https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/27/pattaya-police-bring-chinese-murder-suspect-for-reenactment-enraged-father-of-murdered-victim-attacks-suspect/

Agree that the 380 was unsuited for Thai. But the 777 remains the workhorse of long haul carriers worldwide. The problem wasn’t the plane but the hands it was in.

G-Zone has changed the shop's name to Sun Massage. The original Sun Massage was located on Soi Tarntawan, adjacent to what was the former site of Tawan Bar before it moved across soi into much smaller quarters (we now know it as The One). I think one of the new owners may have worked at the original Sun at one time.

Agree that that's not all that much on per capita basis. But in reality, the TAT's estimates are based at best on sketchy data. They can get a handle on credit card charges, foreign currency exchanged and VAT amounts. What they can't track is how much cash gets spent on non-credit card transactions or other forms of bank transfer. They don't know how many garlands get distributed, off fees paid, tips of all types dispersed, street vendors, markets or restaurants compensated. We all know what we spend on an average week. Agreed that it will be higher than visitors from less wealthy countries but it certainly yields a more accurate picture of real spending.

R.I.P., Francis.

NOTE -- Although I take the following article with a grain of salt, I believe the comments about price gouging may resonate with many. From The Nation Tourist Appeal Wanes as Gripes Over Price Hikes and Dodgy Systems Mount Thailand, once a magnet for budget-conscious backpackers and sun-seekers alike, is facing a growing backlash from international tourists. A surge of online criticism, with nearly 2,000 comments flooding a Bangkok Post Learning social media post, reveals widespread dissatisfaction with the kingdom's current tourism landscape. Travellers are increasingly voicing concerns over inflated prices, a discriminatory two-tier pricing system, outdated bureaucracy, and the now-commonplace aroma of cannabis in holiday hotspots. An analysis by Krungthep Turakij, sifting through some 800 of these online missives with the aid of artificial intelligence, has identified four key areas of concern. Foremost among these is the perception that a holiday in Thailand no longer offers the value for money it once did. The overwhelming sentiment is that Thailand has ceased to be a cost-effective destination. Accommodation costs in popular tourist areas, in particular, have seen eye-watering increases. One disgruntled visitor to Koh Samui recounted: "The same hotel I paid 2,000 baht a night for five years ago now demands 6,000 baht." A European traveller in Pattaya was similarly aghast, reporting a 180-euro (around 7,000 baht) bill for a two-person dinner, sans alcohol. While acknowledging global inflation, many feel that price hikes in Thailand have far outstripped typical inflationary pressures. One European tourist put it bluntly: "Hotels jacking up prices from $100 to $200-300 a night can't be blamed on normal inflation. It's pure greed, that is. Continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/life/travel/40049275

From The Nation The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is moving forward with plans to promote the drone industry by integrating public and private sectors to initiate delivery drone trials within 2025. Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director of CAAT, emphasized CAAT's role in regulating and promoting the proper and efficient use of drones. He highlighted the implementation of UAS Portal system, which streamlines drone operator and drone registrations through a fast online platform. The portal also provides comprehensive guidance for those interested in drone operations and will be equipped to manage drone airspace in the future, he added. Manat said that CAAT is collaborating with various sectors to develop a comprehensive “Drone Master Plan” or a national roadmap for Thailand. This plan covers key aspects including policy, legislation, personnel development, infrastructure readiness, safety, national security, and personal data protection. Continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/bangkok/40049271

From Pattaya News Pattaya Police and Royal Thai Immigration have revealed that a Chinese national, identified now as Mr. Tongyong Fu, 42, was arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport while attempting to leave Thailand. He was wanted after the discovery of the body of a transgender woman in a Pattaya apartment earlier today, as we reported here. Pattaya police have also released more details on what they believe was a murder, although the reasoning behind the incident is still unclear. Mr. Fu was being transported back to Pattaya City where he is expected to be interviewed with the assistance of an interpreter. The body of the victim, identified only as 25 year old Woranan, a post-op transgender woman from Nong Khai, was found this morning by a housekeeper at the apartment complex in Pattaya who was checking the well-being of the occupants after reportedly hearing them arguing vehemently earlier in the morning. The victim’s body was found in a bathroom of the apartment and had been brutally dismembered, with at least one organ missing, said Pattaya Police, and another organ placed next to her body. The suspect was captured on CCTV leaving the complex in a hurry around 6:00 AM today with a suitcase. Pattaya police stated he had rented the room for a week and his passport showed he had visited Pattaya several times before as a tourist. They were planning to investigate how long the victim and the suspect knew each other and how they had met. Continues with photos https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/26/chinese-suspect-in-murder-and-removal-of-organs-of-transgender-woman-in-pattaya-arrested-at-suvarnabhumi-airport/

From Pattaya Mail Thai Airways International has confirmed the purchase of 45 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft under its business rehabilitation plan. The move aligns with its strategy to modernize the fleet and expand capacity. Future orders beyond the 45 aircraft will depend on business needs and return on investment, as the airline aims to make commercially sound decisions. The aircraft procurement plan has also entered the scope of upcoming Thai–U.S. bilateral discussions, where the purchase is viewed as contributing to increased U.S. exports. However, the airline’s executives stated that it is still too early to assess the full impact of the current U.S.–China trade tensions, which have led China to suspend purchases of aircraft and related equipment from Boeing. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/thailandnews/thai-airways-orders-45-boeing-787-9-dreamliner-aircraft-eyes-growth-amid-u-s-china-trade-headwinds-498812

He'll tell you but it will cost you at least 15 minutes of some heavy poetting and leftovers of his choice.

Because I come for long stays I use Airbnb almost exclusively. Those considering booking on that platform are best advised to read the reviews and look for consistently. I have had generally very good experiences. However, this can change from property and owner (or their agent). Airbnb tends to work best for those with solid plans and long stays.

Actually the UK has a higher percentage of inmates in private lock ups. Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Private_prison

From Khaosod English HUA HIN — A Royal Thai Police aircraft crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff in Hua Hin on Friday morning, killing six officers, one of whom died in the afternoon at a hospital, officials said. The Viking DHC-6 Twin Otter went down approximately 100 meters offshore while conducting a test flight in preparation for parachute training exercises in the popular beach resort town. “The plane was performing a test flight to prepare for parachute training exercises in Hua Hin district before it crashed around 8 a.m.,” Royal Thai Police spokesperson Archayon Kraithong confirmed. Continues with video https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2025/04/25/police-plane-with-mechanical-issues-crashes-off-hua-hin-six-dead/

From Pattaya Mail Thailand’s tourism industry is facing one of its steepest downturns in recent years, with the Chinese market — once its most lucrative — in sharp decline. Mr. Sittiwat Chiwarattanaporn, Chief Advisor of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), said the current drop in Chinese tourist arrivals is comparable to the 2018 Phuket boat tragedy, which triggered a major slump in Chinese travel to Thailand. As of April 16, only 5,833 Chinese tourists entered Thailand — a drastic drop from the pre-pandemic daily average of 15,000 to 20,000. This marks one of the lowest levels in recent memory. A combination of negative economic factors, including U.S.-China trade tensions, and China’s domestic tourism promotion policies, have heavily impacted outbound travel. Even under optimistic projections, Thailand may only be able to attract 10,000 to 15,000 Chinese tourists per day during the remainder of 2025. This would bring the total annual arrivals from China to just 4.2–5.5 million, falling significantly short of Thailand’s original target of 7 million, and even below last year’s total of 6.7 million. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/news/tourism-crisis-deepens-chinese-arrivals-plummet-to-just-5000-a-day-post-songkran-foreign-visitors-drop-nearly-20-498778

Find new evidence in high-rise collapse From Bangkok Post The State Audit Office (SAO) has issued a statement explaining the decision to reduce the thickness of the walls of the elevator shafts at its new 30-storey building, which allegedly contributed to the structure's collapse during an earthquake. PKW joint venture was contracted by the SAO to supervise the project. A joint venture between Forum Architect Co and Meinhardt (Thailand) was contracted to design the building. The construction contractor found that the size of the walls, combined with other decoration materials, would reduce the width of the corridor, which could violate a ministerial regulation issued by the Interior Ministry and the Building Control Act. This prompted the contractor to seek advice from the construction supervisor and the construction designer. The designer recommended that the shaft's walls near the corridor be reduced from 30cm to 25cm with steel reinforcements added, the SAO said. The change was verified by the supervisor and the designer, and the revised blueprint was sent back to the contractor. The change was also endorsed by the Auditor-General and the State Audit Commission, according to the statement. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong previously said the decision to trim the walls of the shafts could have contributed to the building's collapse. Pol Col Tawee said investigators are concerned about the shaft walls, as they are significantly thinner than those built in comparable buildings. Typically, he said, the walls should be about 60 centimetres thick, but those at the SAO building were only 25cm. Continues at https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3010760/elevator-shaft-walls-now-in-focus

TBH, I'm getting annoyed with the Tourism Authority's objective of chasing after "high-value" tourists. I acknowledge that all nations prefer the wealthy but the facts don't support Thailand's quest. Thailand rocketed into the leading tourist destination in SE Asia over the last few decades by offering relatively low-cost vacations to tourists from across the globe. Hotels and eateries in all prices ranges sprung up to accommodate them. If the Tourism Authority was to realize its goal, however, who'd be left to book those low and mid-priced hotels or eat and drink at the vendors or beer gardens that cater to the average international tourist. White Lotus was a great promotional series but those depicted hardly represent the average visitor who have made Thailand the success that it has become.. ================ From Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has reported strong growth in long-haul international arrivals in early 2025, as it steps up efforts to attract high-value travellers in line with national tourism strategy — driving toward its year-end target of 39 million visitors and 2.23 trillion Baht in revenue. From 1 January to 21 April 2025, Thailand welcomed over 11.35 million visitors, according to the Immigration Bureau. Long-haul markets showed particularly strong year-on-year growth: the United Kingdom – 423,324 (+20.61%), Germany – 407,378 (+13.14%), France – 364,262 (+22.65%), the United States – 379,472 (+12.83%), Australia – 255,420 (+16.85%), Israel – 131,958 (+97.43%), Italy – 114,808 (+28.6%), the Netherlands – 94,074 (+17.88%), Spain – 52,629 (+17.75%), and Saudi Arabia – 43,356 (+15.26%). This performance has been driven in part by expanded airline seat capacity through TAT’s Airline Focus strategy, which partners with international carriers to increase flight frequencies and launch new routes. Recent additions include Alitalia (Italy–Bangkok), Condor (Frankfurt–Bangkok/Phuket), Evelop Airlines (Madrid–Bangkok), and Air Calédonie International (Paris–Bangkok), alongside frequency increases from Iberojet (Madrid–Bangkok) and Norse Atlantic Airways (London Gatwick–Bangkok). Forward bookings from long-haul markets remain strong for April to June, with continued momentum expected from the UK, Italy, Spain, Israel, and Russia. TAT is sharpening its promotional focus on high-potential, high-spending source markets to drive sustainable growth. Priority areas include long-haul markets across Europe (the UK, Germany, Italy, Israel, Sweden, Switzerland, Norway, Austria), the Americas (Argentina, Brazil), Oceania (Australia), the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait), and Africa (South Africa), as well as key short-haul markets including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and Sri Lanka. Targeted efforts are being made to attract high-value tourists through health and wellness experiences, including Thai massage, spas, yoga, wellness cuisine, and holistic programmes — especially popular among travellers from Europe, ASEAN, and the Middle East. The yacht and superyacht segment is being developed for European, Australian, and Asia-Pacific markets, while sports and entertainment tourism — including golf, marathons, trail running, Muay Thai, diving, and cycling — is being actively promoted in Russia, Europe, the US, Australia, China, South Korea, and Japan. Additionally, the digital nomad and workation markets are being targeted in popular destinations such as Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket, Ko Samui, Hua Hin, and Krabi. Continues at https://www.tatnews.org/2025/04/thailand-targets-high-value-travellers-to-fuel-long-haul-tourism-growth/

Then it certainly makes more sense to do it there. Apple store (at those prices) is clearly not interested in doing repairs but wants to entice owners to upgrade to new phone.

23,000 baht ($685) is about the price of the Apple iPhone 15. What is the 3,300 baht quote for? In any case, I'm sure there are shops in MBK that can do it at cost-effective price.

From The Thaiger Thailand has introduced new rules governing how liquids, gels, and aerosols (LGAs) can be carried in hand luggage, tightening security measures at airports nationwide. The new regulations, which came into effect on Tuesday, April 22, were published in the Royal Gazette and supersede those introduced in 2019. “These updated rules, issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), aim to enhance airport security protocols,” said Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, CAAT’s Director. The directive mandates that all LGAs, whether carried by passengers, crew, or airport staff, must undergo thorough screening before being allowed on aircraft or into restricted airport zones. Under the new regulations, LGAs are defined as items ranging from beverages and sauces to cosmetics, toiletries, and even pressurised containers like sprays and foams. Items with both solid and liquid components, such as mascara and lip balm, also fall under the new rules. The key change is the size limitation. Individual containers of LGAs cannot exceed 100 millilitres, and they must be stored in a container of the same size, even if the container is not full. Passengers can carry multiple items, provided the total volume does not exceed 1 litre per person. In addition, these items must be placed in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag, which must be presented separately during security checks. This bag does not count toward a passenger’s carry-on luggage allowance. If advanced screening technology, such as X-ray scanners capable of detecting LGAs, is used, the screening process may be streamlined. There are exemptions, particularly for passengers requiring medication, baby food or milk, and medically necessary dietary items, all of which must be properly documented and subject to security screening. Duty-free purchases of LGAs are allowed, as long as they are sealed in tamper-evident bags and accompanied by proof of purchase. Transfer and transit passengers will also need to present their duty-free items for inspection, reported The Nation. To ensure widespread awareness of the new rules, airports are required to prominently display the updated guidelines in all public areas, including check-in zones and security checkpoints. Airport operators may also enforce stricter measures based on individual security assessments. As Thailand’s airports tighten their security, travellers are advised to check regulations at both their departure and destination airports to avoid any disruptions. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/new-liquid-and-gel-rules-enforced-at-thailand-airports

From The BBC K-pop group Just B's member Bain has revealed to fans he is "proud to be part of the LGBT community" - a rare move in an industry known for its tight control over artists' behaviour, where stars typically keep details of their personal lives private, particularly relationships. The star, 23, is now among only a handful of K-pop artists who have come out publicly. Bain made the announcement in front of fans while performing a solo at a concert in Los Angeles on Tuesday night. The moment was met with loud cheers from the crowd, according to videos circulating on social media. "To anyone out there who's part of the LGBT community, or still figuring it out - this is for you guys," Bain, whose real name is Song Byeong-hee, said in a video posted on his social media after the concert. "You are seen, you are loved, and you were born this way," he added, before launching into a performance of Born This Way by pop icon Lady Gaga, whom he referred to as "my queen". His bandmates welcomed the announcement. Just B member Siwoo said he cried while watching Bain's performance. "I know how hard it was for him, and that made me want to cry more," he said, according to Korean media outlet News1. The band's fans have shown their support as well. "We love you so much and are so proud of you for being yourself," reads a top-liked comment under his Instagram post. "You are so loved. So proud to be your fan. Be proud of who you are," another fan wrote. Formed in 2021, Just B is a six-member act that has released five EPs and multiple singles. Coming out remains extremely rare in South Korea's highly-pressurised entertainment industry. While homosexuality is not illegal in the country, it remains taboo, and same-sex marriage is not legally recognised. A 2022 Human Rights Watch report described discrimination against LGBT people in South Korea as "pervasive". https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd6jzd6g9nwo