reader

Reminder: New immigration procedure only two weeks away.

From The Thaiger Scammers beware, the Royal Thai Police (RTP) are now armed with cutting-edge Israeli tech to crack phones, catch fraudsters and bring cyber crooks to justice faster than you can say “call centre con.” The RTP beefed up their cybercrime-fighting arsenal with state-of-the-art digital forensic tools from Israeli firm Cellebrite, giving officers the power to extract crucial data from phones and hunt down online criminals with precision. RTP Inspector General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot told officers that sophisticated tools like these are vital in a world where scammers are getting bolder, sometimes even trying to fool the police. “Some scammers now claim to be trafficking victims when caught. Once they’re sent home, they flaunt piles of cash on social media before jumping back into scams.” “We need digital evidence that can’t be disputed to bring these criminals to justice. The tech gives investigators the ability to retrieve, analyse and present mobile data in court, a game-changer in prosecuting online offenders, said Thatchai. Continues at https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-police-boost-cybercrime-fight-with-israeli-digital-tools

I've observed the same thing at FL. Sometimes the egg arrives crispy around the edges while other times it's more like a poached egg. I chalk it up to the cook's preference or customer's request. When Thais are presented with the latter, they'll typically mash the egg into the hot rice which then transforms the texture. Either way I like it.

I believe treading carefully on anyone's religious beliefs is good practice. Looking back now on 23 years of visits, I'm left persuaded that human biology and the need to survive are the dominant factors that influence behavior and relationships.

Part where all those drunken Aussies go.

Perhaps occupancy rates influenced descendants.

Talked with bar boy who was offed to Montien Hotel by male customer tonight. This is first time I recall hearing about off to this hotel which has had long-standing reputation of turning away non-registered guests. He said room was quite nice.

... or UN-willing. 😠

From CNBC Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez raised $9.6 million during the first quarter of 2025, the strongest ever quarter for the New York Democrat, a campaign finance filing showed Tuesday. AOC’s huge money haul — more than five times her tally in the first quarter of 2024 — comes as she and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., draw big crowds at “Fighting Oligarchy” rallies around the U.S. The two progressives at those events criticize President Donald Trump’s policies and highlight the role that billionaires, including DOGE chief Elon Musk, have in the Trump administration. Turnout at the rallies has been strong even in red states. Ocasio-Cortez is also being touted as a possible primary opponent against Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer in 2028. Schumer raised just $144,742 during the first quarter of 2025, according to his public filing. https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/15/aoc-trump-fundraising-bernie-sanders-musk.html

9 foods that may increase testosterone Extracted from MSN "There isn't a single 'testosterone superfood,' but certain foods support the body's natural testosterone production by providing key nutrients or reducing inflammation and oxidative stress," Houman said. The nutritional content of certain foods can give you a leg up when it comes to testosterone, especially if you're deficient in that particular nutrient. Reeder pointed to zinc, vitamin D, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein as pivotal nutrients for healthy testosterone production. Adding the foods on this list to your diet won't magically fix low testosterone levels. However, being intentional about making good food choices can help supplement level management as you speak to your doctor. Your needs will vary depending on your age, health conditions and hormonal status. Fatty fish Fatty fish have a lot going for them in the testosterone department. They are great sources of "good fats" known as omega-3s, which are known to support heart and joint health. Research has revealed that low-fat diets can be associated with lower testosterone levels. While we need more research to fully understand why this is, adding healthy fats to your diet, like fatty fish, can benefit your overall health. That's not the only benefit of fatty fish. They have a high nutritional content of essential vitamins like zinc and vitamin D, which are crucial for healthy testosterone levels. Those with less vitamin D tend to have lower testosterone levels than those with more vitamin D. Cruciferous vegetables Houman explained that cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts can indirectly support healthier testosterone balance by lowering estrogen levels. They can do this because cruciferous vegetables have a compound called indole-3-carbinol. Some studies suggest that indole-3-carbinol may slow cancer cell growth, though the research is limited. Eggs Eggs can help maintain healthy testosterone levels because they contain vitamin D and healthy fats. They also contain the antioxidant selenium. Animal studies have found that selenium can increase testosterone production. However, it's important to remember that we don't have human studies to draw any conclusions about the extent of the relationship between selenium and testosterone. Regardless, eggs are highly nutritious and contain other testosterone-friendly nutrients. One smaller study found that eating the whole egg will be better for testosterone levels than egg whites. Avocados Avocados are a triple threat when it comes to boosting testosterone levels. They are a great source of healthy fats and magnesium and contain boron, a trace element linked to testosterone production. One study found that within a week of taking boron supplements, testosterone levels in males increased up to 32%. Oysters and other shellfish According to Houman, zinc is an essential nutrient for testosterone synthesis in the testes. Oysters offer the most zinc per serving than any food. Other shellfish, like shrimp, clams, mussels, crab and lobster, have notable zinc levels. If seafood isn't your thing, red meat, pumpkin seeds and lentils are other zinc-rich foods. Beyond the benefits of zinc, oysters and other shellfish's antioxidant effect may boost testosterone by increasing the efficiency of the Leydig cells, the primary source of testosterone. Select fruits Fruits with flavonoid antioxidants, like pomegranates, berries and cherries, can help support testosterone production. A study of active young men found that drinking two cups of pure pomegranate juice each day for three weeks helped with muscle recovery, reduced inflammation and saw an increase in testosterone. Olive oil Olive oil has several health benefits, like increasing good cholesterol and lowering bad cholesterol. There is also some evidence that it may increase testosterone. One small study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research of 60 young males discovered that a daily intake of around five teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil increased testosterone by 17%. Fermented foods Reeder explained that gut health is gaining more attention for its role in hormone regulation. Fermented foods like yogurt and kimchi can indirectly support testosterone levels by ensuring your gut microbiota is healthy. A healthy gut plays a role in inflammation and hormone metabolism, so eating gut-friendly foods is always good. "While eating these foods won't artificially raise testosterone beyond your body's natural capacity, they can help create the right environment for hormonal stability," Reeder said. https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/9-foods-that-will-naturally-increase-your-testosterone-levels/ar-AA1C55VG

From CNN The United Kingdom’s highest court ruled that the legal definition of “woman” excludes trans women, in a case with sweeping consequences for how equality laws are applied. Britain’s Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the definition of a woman in equality legislation refers to “a biological woman and biological sex.” The court was deciding on whether trans women with a gender recognition certificate (GRC) – which offers legal recognition of someone’s female sex – are protected from discrimination as a woman under the nation’s Equality Act 2010. A group of campaigners in Scotland brought the challenge in 2018, arguing that those rights should only safeguard those assigned as women at birth. But the Scottish government said that a trans woman with a GRC is legally a woman and should therefore be afforded the same legal protections. Even though the case draws from a debate over Scottish laws designed to increase the number of women sitting on boards, the outcome on Wednesday will shape the increasingly fractious and polarizing debate over transgender rights across the UK. The UK’s ruling Labour party said the ruling brought “clarity” while the opposition Conservatives called it a “clear victory for common sense,” urging the government to clarify existing guidance. Continues at UK Supreme Court says legal definition of ‘woman’ excludes trans women, in landmark ruling | CNN

Pattaya Mail Now that Songkran celebrations have wrapped up across most of Thailand, all eyes are turning to Pattaya — the last big splash of the season is about to begin. While other provinces are cleaning up after their water fights, Pattaya is just getting started. The real party here kicks off on April 18 with Wan Lai Naklua, followed by Wan Lai Pattaya on April 19, known as some of the wildest, wettest, and most anticipated Songkran days in the entire country. Crowds are already building — from locals to long-term visitors and tourists alike — all waiting for the grand finale. Expect massive water battles along Beach Road, cultural parades, concerts, foam parties, and nonstop fun from morning until night. Roads will be closed to traffic, stages will be set up, and the whole city will turn into one giant water playground. https://www.pattayamail.com/news/songkran-isnt-over-yet-pattaya-gears-up-for-the-wildest-wettest-and-most-gridlocked-finale-on-april-18-19-497767

From Pattaya News A viral video showing a chaotic brawl between Thai locals and foreign tourists in Pattaya on Soi 6 prompted authorities to respond this evening by meeting with Thai nationals involved. On April 15, 2025, at 5:26 p.m., Pattaya City Police, led by Deputy Investigator Pol. Lt. Col. Arus Sapanon and Pol. Lt. Col. Suradech Imjai, alongside Banglamung District officials Nattawat Sophonsewatsilp and Tharit Jancharoon, summoned two security guards, a bar manager, and a female employee for questioning. Identified as Non, 36, and Nik, 37 (security guards), Prae, 37 (manager), and May, 33 (server), they provided CCTV footage as evidence. The guards, who work as independent contractors for dozens of bars on Soi 6 and are not tied to a specific bar or group, admitted to being in the viral video, explaining that the altercation stemmed from two heavily intoxicated foreign tourists allegedly harassing female staff. According to their account, the tourists behaved aggressively, making inappropriate advances toward various bar staff. Despite efforts to escort them out and calm the situation, the tourists allegedly refused to comply, grabbed staff members against their will, got into an altercation with the female manager, provoked others, and even allegedly poured beer on a guard’s head. Tensions escalated as the tourists continued to disrupt nearby patrons playing with water, eventually challenging the guards to a “Thai boxing” fight. Unable to tolerate further provocation, one guard struck a tourist in the face, causing him to stagger and fall. The situation spiraled into a melee involving both Thai and foreign onlookers, resulting in the widely shared video. Continues at https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/15/pattaya-soi-6-songkran-brawl-goes-viral-security-guards-cite-harassment-by-drunk-tourists/ ================== From Pattaya Mail A shocking altercation broke out on Pattaya Beach near the old pier at South Pattaya (close to Walking Street entrance). A viral video posted by the Facebook page “Khao Wong Nai” captured the chaos as a transgender woman with blonde hair (LGBTQ+) defended herself from a knife attack by a man wearing a black vest, who appeared to be impersonating an officer. The video shows the trans woman hurling a glass bottle and repeatedly striking the man with a wooden stick in self-defense, while the man slashed at her wildly with a knife. Onlookers, including tourists, tried to intervene, and some locals shouted for someone to “call the police.” Eventually, the two parties separated. According to the video caption, the man had allegedly been attempting to search a foreign tourist’s bag under the guise of law enforcement when the trans woman intervened. In the comments section, the woman described how she witnessed the man pulling sunglasses from a sleeping tourist’s bag and confronting him by saying, “Why are you going through his stuff? Who are you? Let him sleep in peace!” The man reportedly shouted back, “Why are you interfering?” She responded with a curse, prompting the man to chase her with a knife. She retaliated with a glass bottle. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/news/violent-clash-on-pattaya-beach-as-trans-woman-fights-off-knife-wielding-impostor-posing-as-officer-497716

UPDATE: The Pattaya News in now reporting that he has been located at a hostel in Krabi by police and was in good physical condition.

From Bangkok Post The family of a 26-year-old British man who is missing in Thailand is appealing for help in locating him, after not hearing from him for more than a month. The last time that Daniel Davies made contact with his family was March 13, when he was reportedly staying at the Hangover Hostel on Koh Phi Phi Don in the southern province of Krabi. British media quoted the family as saying it was “highly out of character” for Daniel not to stay in touch. They filed a missing person report with Dyfed-Powys Police in Wales, who alerted their counterparts in Thailand. Daniel is described as about six feet tall with a slim build, blonde hair and a beard. His visa reportedly is valid until the end of this month. Police in Krabi are searching for him. “Daniel’s phone is switched off and no one has heard from him in weeks, which isn’t like him at all,” The Mirror quoted his friend Lucia Froom as saying. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3003686/young-briton-missing-in-thailand-for-a-month

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration estimated that over 167,00 took part in Songkran activities in the Silom area on the weekend (April 12 and 13) while over 197,000 visited Khao San Road during the same period. From what I am told by friends in the bars, Raposa's report and the photo above, it's been a young Asian crowd. (photo credit Bangkok Post).

You are correct that a four-story building is not considered a conventional high rise. But your criticism is so typical because you look to find fault in reporting anywhere--anywhere except in Russia where everything is gospel truth, of course.

From The Nation The Bank of Thailand (BOT) plans to introduce regulations this month making financial institutions and payment providers liable for losses from call centre scams. Roong Mallikamas, Deputy Governor for Financial Institutions Stability, made the announcement following the publication of the Royal Decree on Measures for the Prevention and Suppression of Technology Crimes (No. 2) BE 2568 (2025) in the Royal Gazette on Saturday (April 12). The BOT supports the principles outlined in the Royal Decree and has collaborated with relevant agencies to provide input and improve the content to strengthen measures for combating technology-related crimes, she said. A key provision of the Royal Decree is the establishment of a framework requiring relevant service providers — including financial institutions, payment service providers, telecommunications companies, social media platforms and digital asset businesses — to enhance customer protection and share responsibility for damages if they fail to meet regulatory standards. https://www.nationthailand.com/business/banking-finance/40048761

From The Nation Aftershock triggers collapse of high-rise building in Mandalay A high-rise building in Mandalay Region collapsed due to an aftershock that followed an earlier earthquake on the morning of April 13, the day before the Myanmar New Year (Thingyan). The incident occurred in the afternoon, following the morning earthquake that struck the city. According to locals, tremors continued throughout the day. “There was another tremor this morning—we heard it was magnitude 5.5. Around 1pm., a high-rise building located between 26th and 76th × 77th Streets collapsed forward. The building housed a private medical clinic and health supplies store. It was a four-story structure, and the ground floor was buried. Although the building sustained damage during the initial March quake, it wasn’t this severe until now,” said a resident. https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/news/asean/40048782

If Roy Cohn had survived, he'd be Trump's attorney general today. No one had more influence in Trump's political life than Cohn. Trump's father instilled the need to win at all costs but it was Cohn who showed him how it's done in day-to-day practice.

For lawyers...and anyone who enjoys satire. From NPR Judges and Supreme Court Justices trade topical jokes in annual D.C. mock trial https://www.wbur.org/hereandnow/2025/04/11/mock-trial-frankenstein

From Bangkok Post A former chief of the National Office of Buddhism (NOB) accused of embezzling temple funds has been arrested in Texas, according to a source. Nopparat Benjawattananan, who fled overseas after the scandal surfaced in 2017, was detained on April 11 at a hospital by the US Marshals Service ahead of a formal extradition request expected from the Thai government. His arrest follows a request by Thai officials who want him extradited to face charges related to the alleged embezzlement. The extradition process could take some time. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3002391/former-chief-of-national-office-of-buddhism-held-in-us

From Vietnam News When exports of goods are subject to high tariffs, Indonesia must look to other sectors that can serve as a balance for its economy, she stressed, adding that tourism is a form of service export that is not impacted by trade tariff policies. HÀ NỘI — Tourism industry can serve as an economic defence tool helping Indonesia mitigate negative impacts caused by US reciprocal tariffs, Indonesian Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana has said. According to the minister, the tourism sector, classified as a service industry, is not subject to such tariffs and continues to generate foreign exchange. Widiyanti made the statement in response to experts' concerns that barriers to Indonesia's exports to the US can accelerate the weakening of the IDR against the US dollar. When exports of goods are subject to high tariffs, Indonesia must look to other sectors that can serve as a balance for its economy, she stressed, adding that tourism is a form of service export that is not impacted by trade tariff policies. The minister noted that the Southeast Asian nation can optimise the enormous potential of the tourism sector as a major source of foreign exchange that is free from trade barriers. By attracting more foreign visitors, the country will be able to maintain the stability of the IDR and foreign exchange reserve, she said. To promote tourism development, the Ministry of Tourism is encouraging businesses across the country to take advantage of opportunities arising from shifting global dynamics to promote Indonesia as a world-class tourist destination. Continues at https://vietnamnews.vn/world/1695342/indonesia-tourism-viewed-as-economic-shield-against-us-new-tariffs.html