Thailand Forum

The Mixxer - A Free Educational Website For Language Exchanges Via Skype

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 09:05:07 +0000

Guys

I posted recently about using Skype to learn to speak Thai. It was the first in a series of articles on the use of Skype from the excellent womenlearnthai blog written by an expat lady called Catherine Wentworth who lives in Bangkok.

The topic is here:

http://www.thaigers....thai-via-skype/

Anyway, one of the later articles in the series is about language exchange forums where basically you meet up with somebody online who wants to speak your native language and you help each other.

There is no cost to you for this other than your time.

Link is here:

http://www.language-exchanges.org/

Seems like quite an interesting idea and worth look if you are serious about your studies to learn the language.

Three Unexploded Bombs Found In Bangkok Area

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 08:26:54 +0000

Three unexploded bombs found in Bangkok area

Published: 9/09/2010 at 10:56 AM

Three unexploded bombs were found in Bangkok and surrounding suburbs in just a few hours, one of them in front of a school and one in a shopping mall, police said Thursday. The first device was discovered under a footbridge outside a school in central Bangkok on Wednesday morning, Major General Prawut Thavornsiri, the national police spokesman, told AFP.

On Wednesday night, two more, each weighing around five kilograms were found at a shopping mall and in the public health ministry car park in nearby Nonthaburi province, he added. Both were later defused.

The finds follow a series of grenade blasts in recent weeks across Bangkok, which remains under emergency rule following deadly street clashes in April and May during anti-government protests.

On Friday, Thailand put over 460 locations across Bangkok on high alert, sending thousands of police, soldiers and city officials onto the streets in a bid to increase the security presence around the clock.

Royal palaces, key government buildings, power plants and public transport are receiving special protection from the Centre for Resolution of Emergency Situation (CRES), the body set up to monitor security since unrest in April.

Suthep Thaugsuban, deputy prime minister in charge of national security, said he had instructed officials to tighten security again after the three devices were found on Wednesday.

"I have not yet got a detailed report. Officials are investigating but it's quite difficult," he added.

He said a bomb hoax that emerged on the same day on a Thai Airways flight from Bangkok to Los Angeles was not related to incidents in the city.

http://www.bangkokpo...ions-in-bangkok

Cheap International Sim Card, Lebara Mobile

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 17:03:51 +0000

http://www.igoc.org.uk/assets/images/lebara_logo.png

Lebara Mobile

While I was at the Thai festival in London last month I purchased one of these sim cards from the Lebara stall, you couldn't miss this stall really as it was bright blue handing out all types of promotional gear, now I don't usually bother with these people who offer you something for nothing there is normaly always a catch. But the girls who where on this stall where very very good to my daughter so I thought what the hell I purchased one of these cards with a nice big goody bag

Ok the deal they are doing at the minute is that if you by one of these sim cards for £5 you get £5's worth of free credit so in reality you get the sim for free bargain.

I chucked it in my work bag once we got home and didn't think any of it for a while until I needed to call the Dog. Normally would call via a phone card or such like, end up having poor reception get f**ked off with it and we end up calling each other direct, very expensive

So I swapped the cards round in my phone, very simple the normal pay as you go style sims where you have a number to input and send to get your credit loaded to your sim, done all this and fine, hassle free job done. All you do then is dial the number direct using the country code. Now with all the years of calling Thailand and the different options in doing so, calling cards, land line 2p per minute numbers et etc, I have never had such a clear conversation with some one the other side of the world. They was a mili second of delay but it did not effect the call what so ever.

The prices they quote on they website for Thailand is 4p to landline and 6p to mobile numbers you can call most countries around the world and also have good UK to UK deals and data deals check out the website, link at the end of this post.

I was on the phone for 18 minutes 20 seconds to Dog and the call cost me £1.14 take out the dialling time and this is around the 6p per minute mark.

I have since called Butch to make sure he is behaving himself ( no chance ) and again as clear as making a call UK to UK, Butch, Dog would like your comments as to the quality of the calls your end please.

I would definitely recommend this sim card, I know you can call to LOS cheaper but the convenience and the quality sure out ways the poor reception and the frustration of using phone cards in my eyes.

LEBARA MOBILE

DD

Thai Government To Help Motorcycle Taxi'S

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:35:54 +0000

The Thai government says it is considering addressing the issue of motorcycle taxis, claiming the drivers have been marginalized by the government for ages.

Prime Minister’s Office Minister Satit Wongnongtaey stated that the government is considering a big project that would affect around 300,000 motorcycle taxi drivers across the nation in a bid to take care of their welfare and tackle mafias.

According to statistics, only 60 percent of motorcycle taxis in Bangkok are registered.

Thailand Eyes To Host World Cup In 2026

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:32:44 +0000

BANGKOK, 7 September 2010 (NNT) – The Thai Government expects to propose itself as host to the FIFA World Cup in either 2026 or 2030, according to Tourism and Sports Minister Chumpol Silapa-archa.

The Senate Committee for Sports on Monday convened a seminar to discuss preparations that Thailand has to make in order to host the FIFA World Cup, with Mr Chumpol chairing the meeting.

The Minister stated that the Thai Government wanted to host the World Cup in order to stimulate domestic sports development in a more concrete manner. He then asked for supports from the public for the sake of dignity and fame of Thailand.

Mr Chumpol, however, admitted that systematic plans and projects to improve potentials and quality of Thai football players must be made while football fields must be standardized. He expected that Thailand would need about ten years for the preparations before proposing itself to host the world sport event.

NNT

Mobile Service Firms Face More Penalty For Mnp Delay

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:30:44 +0000

BANGKOK, 7 September 2010 (NNT) – The National Telecommunication Commission (NTC) has decided to raise the daily fine from 20,000 THB to 167,000 THB as an extra penalty on the mobile service operators after they failed to activate the number portability service in time.

NTC Deputy Secretary General Prasert Aphipunya revealed after the board meeting on Monday that the NTC has agreed to elevate the fine from the original 20,000 THB per day per company to 167,000 THB. The rate calculation is based on a presumed opportunity cost incurred to 100,000 customers per month.

With the new rate, each service provider will have to pay the NTC a total of 14.4 million THB if they make the mobile number portability (MNP) system operational on 1 January 2011 as they previously announced.

The system, initially planned to be launched in August last year, was postponed to 1 September this year to allow the operators to setup the system. However, the big five mobile firms including AIS, DTAC, TrueMove, TOT and CAT Telecom, claimed the system is now under testing process and will not be ready until December at the earliest.

NNT

(Mobile number portability (MNP) enables mobile telephone users to retain their mobile telephone numbers when changing from one mobile network operator to another.)

Risk Prone Spots Under Tight Watch

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:25:45 +0000

BANGKOK, 7 September 2010 (NNT) – Security units are stepping up surveillance in attack-prone areas as the National Security Council stands firm on keeping the State of Emergency activated.

National Security Council (NSC) Secretary General Tawin Pleansri said the government’s Center for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation (CRES) has been mulling over the revocation of the Emergency Decree in remaining areas. However, some areas are still considered under threat.

All relevant units have been instructed to tighten security control in sensitive areas and crowded sites such as train stations, transport terminals and department stores. Authorities believe such spots are particularly susceptible to attack.

Mr Tawin later urged all parties to move away from conflict and cooperate to move the nation away from its current impass

NNT

Northern People Prone To Commit Suicide

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:24:20 +0000

Bangkok, 7 September 2010 (NNT) – Suicides are likely to occur in the Northern area of Thailand as a consequence of economic and social problems as well as the intensifying tension in politics.

Mental Health Department Deputy Director-General, MD Wachira Pengjan on Tuesday disclosed at the “Million Care & Million Share” event organized by Srithanya Hospital, that the World Health Organization has designated 10 September as the World Suicide Prevention Day, in the hope to raise awareness on the problem of suicides around the world.

According to MD Wachira, a year-on-year increased rate of suicides was reported for the first half of 2010, at 3.17 per 100,000 populations due to problems with the global economy, social and internal politics. While annually, the rate usually stood at less than 6 per 100,000 populations.

The 2009 report indicated that Northern people were most prone to commit suicide, especially the residents of Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Lamphun and Mae Hong Son. The total suicides in 2009 were committed by 3,634 people.

NNT

Thai Airways To Sell Bht One Bn Stocks To Public

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:21:29 +0000

BANGKOK, 7 September 2010 (NNT) — National carrier Thai Airways International (THAI) has offered one billion ordinary shares for sale to the public.

According to THAI Acting Deputy Director General of Commerce Theerapon Chochanapiban, the issuance of the new shares will help strengthen the Airlines financial position as well as increase its liquidity. It will also help facilitating the development of the flights and networks, creating better services for customers, and giving THAI a competitive edge. Currently, the majority of THAI’s stocks, 51.03%, are owned by the Ministry of Finance.

Mr Theerpon said that the Airways’ ultimate goal is to uplift its status to one of the top three airlines in Asia, and one of the top five in the world in the very near future. THAI will also earmark part of the new shares for small investors, but the largest part will be offered to the existing shareholders, who will be eligible to acquire them at the ratio to be announced on the 15 and 17 of this month.

NNT

Frenchman On Trail For Sexual Assault On Children

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:17:21 +0000

A 61-year-old Frenchman was on trial in Paris on Monday charged with raping or sexually assaulting ten Thai girls aged between six and 11.

Jean-Claude Chamoux was arrested when police burst into his hotel room in the Thai resort of Pattaya in 2005 after he raped an eight-year-old girl to whose mother he had paid 20 euros, court documents alleged.

Police say the mother, who is HIV-positive, rented her daughter out to the man to raise money for medical treatment. She was also arrested.

Following his arrest, Chamoux was detained but then later released on bail. He returned to Paris illegally where French police arrested him in June 2006.

The trial is also examining charges that he sexually assaulted two French girls aged three and four.

Chamoux has not denied any of the charges but told investigators he had never had the impression he was forcing the girls to comply with his wishes, prosecutors say.

The verdict is due Friday.

Drug Suspect Gunned Down Outside Court

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 04:31:21 +0000

Chon Buri - A drug suspect was gunned down after he exited the provincial court here, police said Police said Putthipong Sunanwiriyamakorn, 40, was shot in his forehead while he was starting his car The gunman inside another car sped off Police said Putthipong went to the court to ask for a postponement of his arraignment in a case that he was arrested allegedly with 11 grammes of 'ice' drug Earlier, he was suspected of being involved in another drug case in which police seized some 200,000 methamphitamine pills in front of a sea foods restaurant in Chon Buri's Muang district.

The Nation.

Affordable Tickets

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 15:59:14 +0000

Is there a certain time of the year when the airline tickets are affordable or a certain time of the week when you book your like.
Really appreciated some advice from the seasoned travelers.

Thai Language Schools In Pattaya

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 15:45:41 +0000

Guys

Over on the WomenLearningThai blog that I have mentioned many times, there is a brief review of 3 language schools in Pattaya...worth a quick look if you are seriously considering enrolling in a course.

Here is the link:

http://womenlearnthai.com/index.php/review-thai-language-schools-in-pattaya/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+womenlearnthai%2FPKcd+%28Women+Learning+Thai%3A+Thai+Language+Learning%29&utm_content=Google+Reader

Police Lt Resigns As Spokesman

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 14:23:27 +0000

Pol Lt Gen Pongsapat Pongcharoen Monday announced his resignation as the Royal Thai Police spokesman.

Pongsapat reasoned that he has been appointed as an advisor for the Royal Thai Police in charge of security affairs so he will not have time to perform the spokesman duty Pongsapat said he is willing to support the next police spokesman. Pongsapat has been serving as the Royal Thai Police spokesman for five times since 1994.

The Nation

Canterbury Tales Cafe & Bookshop

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 10:29:19 +0000

Rooms from 450, free Wifi high speed Internet, 24 hour security, in room safe, A/C, Fan, TV, DVD player, large free DVD library, Sofa, Recliner, Dining table, chairs, balcony, daily weekly & Monthly rates from 6,500 per month.

All day English Breakfast and good main meals.

Bookshop with over 15,000 books in many Languages, all subjects, exchange scheme, we buy also books for cash or trade in your unwanted books, all the Thailand related books including Private Dancer signed by Stephen Leather.

Please visit www.canterburytalescafe.com for all details, pictures etc

Canterbury Tales Cafe Pattaya

Mon, 06 Sep 2010 10:25:21 +0000

Any comments............

Tourists Warned About 'Cigarette Police'

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 16:12:03 +0000

Saw this on Bangkok Post...there has been some debate over the last week there about these 'inspectors'...I got caught myself a few years ago outside MBK BTS dropping a cigarette butt and ended up paying a 500 baht fine (with no receipt) as opposed to a formal 2000 baht alternative.

Anyone else been caught?

Tourists warned about 'cigarette police'

Published: 5/09/2010 at 12:00 AM
Newspaper section: News

Foreign tourists have been told to take a hard line with the thetsakij, or Bangkok's city inspectors, who have been accused of unfairly targeting them to issue fines for littering.

http://www.bangkokpost.com/media/content/20100905/178265.jpg Manit Techa-apichoke, deputy director of the City Law Enforcement Department, said foreigners who feel they have been unfairly targeted by the thetsakij should refuse to pay the fines.

He said they should alert the nearest district office or police officer, so action can be taken against the inspectors.

Mr Manit's statement comes on the heels of an investigation published in last Sunday's Spectrum that revealed foreign tourists, particularly those on Sukhumvit Road, were targeted by thetsakij to pay fines for littering, while Thais committing similar offences were largely ignored.

The report, which garnered more than 150 comments online, revealed that many of those targeted by the thetsakij were not issued receipts.

The Spectrum investigation also found that very few rubbish bins were present in areas where the thetsakij operate, leading some to suspect that they were removed to increase the likelihood that foreigners would litter.

Foreigners interviewed by Spectrum investigators said that it seemed as if inspectors were standing by ready to swoop immediately once they littered.

Inspectors demanded they pay the fines on the spot, telling them that if they wanted to take the matter to a nearby district office or police station, they would end up paying much more.

Mr Manit said any city inspectors found guilty of extortion would be sacked immediately.

He said that opaque rubbish bins were removed from city streets as part of security measures in the wake of bomb attacks in the capital.

Some thetsakij had taken advantage of the situation to extort foreigners who litter, Mr Manit said.

Members of the public and tourists can call City Hall's hotline at 1555 to report any attempts at extortion by city inspectors.

http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/194650/tourists-warned-about-cigarette-police

Flights From The Uk To Thailand

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:14:48 +0000

If any of you men in the UK are searching for flights to Bangkok I'd like to suggest you have a look at www.tesco.com and www.asda.com I've used them in the past as well as most of the others and sometimes the flights on those two come up 20-30 quid cheaper than opodo etc.

Give it a thought next time you're looking.

Tips I'Ve Picked Up Along The Way

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:10:46 +0000

Hi Fellas

Several tips, hopefully some can add their own.

Don't bother packing shower gel, soap or shampoo (unless it's medicated) as it's often cheaper at destination and you save weight. however, make sure you do pack your shaving gear (razors/ gel / foam etc) as sometimes finding something specific can be hard.

If you lock your case or hand baggage with a padlock, keep 2 sets of keys separate, one set about your person, the other in your hand baggage hidden in an accessible section.

Pack any aerosols into your shoes to save room. Also if going to LOS, just buy your sandals there and ditch them when you leave. For the sake of 280 baht, it's worth it.
Bring along a collapseable, closeable bag which you can use for putting in some Duty Free. This also helps at a later date for transporting laundry from your hotel.

When you get on board the plane, make sure you keep a bic or a disposable ballpoint pen handy preferably in the seat front (careful it doesn't slip thru the holes at each bottom corner). Before packing away your passport, write your passport number, issue and expiry date on the back of your Boarding Card stub. when it comes to filling out the immigration form, there's no frantic searching for your passport or a pen, so you can get on with the important stuff of getting to and thru immigration.

When you debus from the plane and walk to immigration, ignore the busy queues and walk a bit further, there's often a desk or two that are quiet as people tend to head for the nearest. Very often they will also process you in the "Thai National" desk if there's no one waiting. At this point make sure you have a copy of your E Ticket handy, in case they ask for proof of return flight.

When taking money (cash always, TC's are a pain and not worth the hassle) make sure the notes are clean with no writing and not too creased up. This is especially true if you intend to go to the PI for a side trip as they are very particular there. I use an elastic band to bundle mine in values of £200 to make counting easier.
The airport used to offer the best XC rate going, but not sure if that is still the case. Just be a bit more careful on who is watching you when you change or count money, and try to keep your "spatial" awareness, as having got off a 12 hour flight people often let their guard down upon getting to their destination.

If your cab ride stops anywhere, ignore the temptation to have a beer, instead, concentrate on hydrating as much as you can. not only will it help during the coming nights piss up, it'll help you feel a whole lot better the following morning.

Upon reaching the hotel, after you're checked in and cleaned up, unless you've been before, try to locate a local laundry, to save money on using the hotel one. Take all the stuff thats creased up from the journey and ask for "pressing only" and get a price agreed beforehand, otherwise they'll charge you for washing as well even though they have not.

Any valuables you have not put in the box downstairs, lock in your case and hide the key. Remove all your luggage labels from everything, and put in your case. This stops any TG's getting your personal details.

Take a card or 3 from the hotel lobby and write the number of your room on it. I'll bet I'm not the first one to arrive back at the hotel and forget what room I'm in, especially if the nightshift came on after you left. Might even help if you forget your hotel too.

Take a spare credit type card (phone E top up card from any supermarket in the UK) and use it in place of the room keycard to activate the rooms electrics. the Eastiny group for one uses this method, you need your keycard to get the lights on, but by putting any old card in the slot gets the same results, leaving you able to keep or hand in the keycard at reception, in the knowledge that not only will your room appear occupied, the air con will have been running too.

In the morning , during the maids rounds, nick some extra toilet paper from their cart. They never give you enough.

Cheers
Butch

High Speed Train

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:18:38 +0000

Just heard on the news that Thailand and China are in talks about a high speed train from China through Nong Khai to Bangkok. Sept. 4th china will be in Bangkok for more talks and more info may be known after these talks.

Jon.

Elephant Trekking

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 07:29:27 +0000

Elephant trekking is fun

From my hotel in Jomtien Beach (Pattaya South) : half an hour to get there, one hour elephant trekking, half an hour back. Price was 600 Thai Baht for the trekking plus and additionnal 100 Thai Baht for the taxi to there and back (organised with the guy selling visits & day outs at my hotel).

How do you climb on the thing ?

You go up the stairs on to the platform :

Then from the platform you take your seat behind the "pilot" (cormac ? cornac ? - can't remember how they are called these guys "piloting" the elephants) :

The ride seating there on the "tourist" seat is quite easy :

After a few minutes I asked the "pilot" if I could try myself at "driving" the elephant... So here we go... I do look a bit tense on the picture... Must be because I was trying not to fall (and succeded not too ) while learning to "pilot" the elephant

After a few minutes, much more at ease, I am having a pause and chat with my new friend, Mr Elephant. As you can see on the picture, he laughed is head off when I just told him that he had more hair on his head than me

Overall a nice and enjoyable little experience this elephant trekking. Have a go

(ps : if you try yourself in the "pilot" seat hold tight and don't hesitate to grab with one hand the seat behind you for balance when you need !)

The New Bangkok Airport

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 07:24:54 +0000

Suvarnabhumi Airport Quick Facts
Tags: General Information
Official name
Suvarnabhumi Airport. The name Suvarnabhumi was chosen by HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej which means "The Golden Land", specifically referring to the continental Indochina. "Golden Peninsula"or "Golden Land" is a traditional name for the Thailand-Cambodia-Laos-Burma region
How is it pronounced
"su-wan-na-poom"
Airport Code
Suvarnabhumi Airport will inherit its IATA airport code BKK from Bangkok Don Muang International Airport.
Location
The airport is located in Racha Thewa in the Bang Phli district of Samut Prakan province, 30 kilometers east of Bangkok.
Architects
The airport was designed by Murphy/Jahn Architects
Capacity
The airport has 2 parallel runways (60 m. wide, 4,000 m. and 3700 m. long) and 2 parallel taxiways to accommodate simultaneous departures and arrivals. It has a total of 120 parking bays (51 with contact gates and 69 remote gates) and 5 of these are capable of accommodating the Airbus A380 aircraft. With a capacity of handling 76 flight operations per hour, both international and domestic flights will share the airport terminal but will be assigned to different parts of the concourse. In the initial phase of construction, it will be capable of handling 45 million passengers and 3 million tonnes of cargo per year. Between the airport hotel and the terminal building are the two 5-storey car park buildings with a combined capacity of 5,000 cars.
Airport Hotel
Above the underground rail link station and in front of the passenger terminal building is the 600-room hotel operated by Accor Group under the Novotel brand.
Long-term plans
Long-term plans for four runways flanking two main terminals and two satellite buildings with a combined capacity capable of handling up to 100 million passengers and 6.4 million tonnes of cargo a year are on the drawing board. The second phase of airport expansion involving the construction of a satellite building south of the main terminal is expected to begin 3 to 5 years after the completion of the first main terminal.

http://www.bangkokairportonline.com

Arrivals

Departures

Inside

The New Airport Train

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 14:07:55 +0000

This information is from their website:

http://bangkokairporttrain.com/

Bangkok Airport Train

The gateway to Suvarnabhumi Airport's New Railway link network. A portal into the airport rail travel including train times; fares, train running information & News.

The Suvarnabhumi Airport Link (SARL) is an airport rail link under construction from Suvarnabhumi Airport to the planned City Air Terminal in Makkasan, Bangkok, Thailand.

The key airport link contract was signed in January 2005, and construction began in July 2005. The line is built by a consortium of B Grimm, STECON and Siemens, and is owned and operated by State Railway of Thailand (SRT). The estimated cost of the project is 25.9 billion baht.

Suvarnabhumi Airport's Rail Link commercial services will begin August 23 with special discount fares offered until the end of the year. After presiding at ceremony during staff training for the Airport Rail Link project linking Suvarnabhumi Airport and Makkasan area in downtown Bangkok, Permanent Secretary for Transport Supot Saplom said he believed that independent engineers will issue the certificate permitting the project to open for service, as all flaws have been fixed, and test-runs by State Railway of Thailand (SRT) workers continue to be conducted.
Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Rail Link

The 28km rail link connects Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan province east of Bangkok and the City Air Terminal (CAT) in Bangkok's Makkasan area, where passengers will be able to check in their baggage. Services of both the Express Service and the City Line will be operational on the same tracks at speeds of up to 160km per hour. The Express Service is a 15-minute non-stop journey between the City Terminal and the airport with a fare at Bt150 per trip. During the opening period, the fare charged will be Bt100.
Bangkok Rail Link

City Line commuter trips, with set fares at Bt15-Bt45, take 30 minutes to reach the airport, departing from Phaya Thai, Ratchaprarop, Makkasan, Asoke, Ramkhamhaeng, Hua Mak, Ban Thap Chang, and Lat Krabang stations, and will end at the last stop of Suvarnabhumi. The promotional fare will be Bt15 for all journeys during this period. Meanwhile, Mr Supot said the baggage check-in system developed by SRT and Airports of Thailand (AoT) for Makkasan Station will be ready for full operation by the year end. The transport official said there will be over 300 personnel working for the Airport Link project.

Source: BANGKOK, 21st July, 2010 (MCOT online news)

The Airport Link to Suvarnabhumi Airport will provide 2 Transit options:

A Direct Express Train that will take 15 minutes from the City Air Terminal (Makkasan) train station. This service will connect to the city’s mass transit subway system. Passengers will have the opportunity of checking in their luggage at the City Air Terminal, before boarding the express train to Suvarnabhumi airport.

The Commuter Train will make eight stops throughout the city, taking 30 minutes to travel the 28 kilometers (17 miles) to the airport and linking with both the *Subway and **Skytrain systems in Bangkok.

* Subway Link:
Phetchaburi station for MRT (subway) Blue line

** Sky Train:
Phayathai Station for BTS Sukhumvit line.

And here's a video:

!

Cheers

Metro Apartments Soi Lk Metro Pattaya

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 09:35:19 +0000

Stayed here for a seven night stint and I must say for the price it was outstanding value. I stayed in the superior room which was spacious and comfortable with the following facilities:-

Free in-room WiFi Internet Connection
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif Colour TV with Sophon Cable
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif DVD player
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif Aircon
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif Multi-speed ceiling fan
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif Electronic safe, well positioned next to the bed for extra security
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif Refrigerator / minibar
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif Hot shower
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif king-sized bed
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif Book and DVD library
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif Private balcony. (L shaped in the Superior rooms)
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif Sofa (in the superior rooms)
http://www.metro-apartments-pattaya.com/img/lockoverlay.gif Complimentary tea / coffee plus microwave (in the superior rooms)

PERIOD ROOM TYPE DAILY WEEKLY 4 WEEKS + 1st March 2008
�"
30th September 2008 Standard 650 Baht 4,000 Baht
(570 Baht per additional night) 15,000 Baht
(540 Baht per additional night) Superior - includes complimentary tea / coffee plus microwave
750 Baht
4,690 Baht
(670 Baht per additional night)
17,900 Baht
(640 Baht per additional night)
1st October 2008
�"
28th February 2009 Standard
820 Baht
5,400 Baht
(770 Baht per additional night)
19,600
(700 Baht per additional night)
Superior - includes complimentary tea / coffee plus microwave
920 Baht
6,100 Baht
(870 Baht per additional night)
22,400 Baht
(800 Baht per additional night)

The rooms are very well appointed and tastefully decorated. The maid cleans the rooms daily and to a high standard. The reception staff are warm and friendly and eager to help. There is also free use of the internet in the bar as well as free use of the pool tables. The host Dennis is a really warm and friendly guy and always eager to make sure his customers are comfortable.
My opinion is that there is no better value for the price

This is the website for those wishing to make a booking and to read further

Website for Metro Apartments

I have stayed in many establishments of various standards and price ranges in Pattaya and for the price The Metro Apartments offers outstanding value for money....Would I stay here again??...Absolutely!!!!

Emergency Rule Is Only Stirring The Pot Of Hatred

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 08:49:02 +0000

Despite my loathing of The Nation, this is a good article:

Emergency rule is only stirring the pot of hatred

By The Nation
Published on August 26, 2010

Sometimes, a short phone conversation can say volumes about the state a society is in.

"Please don't mention my name because I might not be able to graduate," this writer heard a female voice pleading.

The voice on the other end of the line was that of a red-shirt Chulalongkorn University student. She did not want to be identified, even though she had earlier called to report the incident when she and seven other fellow students ended up having their placards confiscated as soon as Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva arrived at the university to deliver a speech.

This writer tried but failed to convince her that she had nothing to fear and that it is the authorities, the prime minister and the lecturer who intimidated her who should be ashamed. Still, her story cannot be published because she's too scared.

This incident is probably a good indication of the fact that maybe both the government, and the ruling elite that are intimidating others, are afraid too. They are terrified of the changes that the major transitions in Thai politics and society will bring, and this was made clear by their claims that the red shirts and Thaksin Shinawatra were allegedly plotting to overthrow the monarchy. These people are also afraid to admit that the rural and the urban poor have changed and now want a greater political say as well as a more equitable economic share.

They are insecure, and perhaps even paranoid, about what might become of Thai society in say five or ten years. And when the ruling elite is insecure, fearful and paranoid, they overreact by instilling fear in those they believe to be their enemies.

But all this does is perpetuate a cycle of fear in society.

The student who called this writer might be terrified, but she's not afraid to say that she hates Abhisit for making those who think differently fearful by imposing the emergency decree as well as bringing the red-shirt protest to a bloody end.

However, some reds might have crossed the threshold of fear. People like Sombat Boon-ngam-anong and Somyos Pruksakasemsuk are determined to bring down the regime they consider illegitimate. Both were "briefly" detained and now face charges for violating the emergency decree. Yet, it appears that these charges and possible punishment that will be meted out is like a fire that is forging their belief and making it stronger. And they are not the only ones.

One can't help but ask why the government is refusing to stop and reconsider now that it has had Bangkok and its surrounding provinces under emergency for four months?

How can an administration that claims to be working for national reconciliation and unity continue creating such a climate of fear?

The "enlightened" ones among the ruling elite and the government should speak up before Thailand is dragged deeper into the vicious and destructive cycle of mutual distrust, fear and hatred.

Those in power should recognise the fact that beneath this veneer of political calm - that is artificially maintained by the emergency decree - the hatred is bubbling up because this "fear tactic" seems to have backfired.

Conflicts will continue with or without the emergency decree, but the government has to decide which option will produce the least hatred.

Pravit Rojanaphruk

http://www.nationmul...d-30136639.html

Critical Asian Studies

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 08:35:23 +0000

Came across this guys and thought I would post the link for those who may be interested.

Formerly known as the Bulletin of Concerned Asian Scholars, Critical Asian Studies have made available to download in pdf format their entire archive. A lot of interesting articles here going back to 1968.

Their website is here:

http://criticalasianstudies.org/about-us/

The journal is published quarterly and the direct link to the download page is here:

http://criticalasianstudies.org/bcas/back-issues.html

Currency Calculator/convertor

Sat, 28 Aug 2010 03:56:50 +0000

This is a nifty little site that will simaltaneously convert your chosen currency into a host of other currencies, instead of just converting one at a time.COINMILL

Thai Internet

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 23:06:48 +0000

Hi Guys,

Just after some info....

Ill be bringing my laptop again on this trip. Now I can access the web from a mates bar like last time. But what i need to find out is what is available to access net from my room.

Now obviously, Im not connecting phones etc for a month stay.

I have a dongle here in Oz that i xcan bring. Its unlocked & 3G. I realise 3 G isnt widely available in Thailand but my Sierra dongle will also work on HSPA 850/1900/2100 & GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900Mhz.

My question... can I buy a sim card in Tukcom for net access ? What sort of costs? Who are the best providers?

Thanks

cheers
wondra

Boat Bakery Pattaya

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:51:30 +0000

Guys

Had my first 'meal out' last night and figured I would start off as I intend to continue and hit The Boat Bakery on 2nd Road.

For those who don't know this place it's an open air restaurant with a small bakery attached. It's opposite Soi Pattayaland 2 a hundred yards or so from the junction of 2nd road and Pattaya Tai (South Pattaya Rd).

They do a very eclectic range of dishes that I would describe as general asian food...Thai influences as well as chinese and farang food. Lots of rice and noodle dishes as well as soups such as tofu soup. They also have a range of 'specials' which include delicacies such as 'fried bread with ground pork' and 'fried chicken in potato'

The dishes are mostly 30-50 baht so the main attraction is that you can eat very cheaply and hence it does a very brisk trade and is frequented in the main by the older cheap charlie ex pat brigade. Of course the good thing about this is that the food is pretty fresh because of the turn over.

Anyway, I had crispy spring rolls for 50 baht:

By the time I had eaten this I was full to be honest but as my eyes have always been bigger than my belly as they say I had also ordered a plate of seafood rice for 45 baht:

To drink I ordered water and got a bottle of singha water for 10 baht.

Total cost was 105 baht and I was stuffed

They do steak or pork dinners as well for about 70 baht and possibly the cheapest breakfast in town for 48 baht

Worth a look....not the best food in town but possibly one of the cheapest excluding Thai food stalls.

Tourist Visa

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 22:16:31 +0000

Well I've retired and I've purchased my round trip tickets. Departing in November returning in March. The closest consulate is chicago so I gave them a call yesterday to talk about a multiple or what some are calling a double entry tourist visa. They're response was we don't give those out. I said "oh I should have called your sooner I've purchased my tickets and I'll not be coming back for 5 months. They responded by saying "just leave Thailand and come back, no problem, you'll get 60 more days. He also said I can go to immigration for an extension. Now I understand all that but I thought that was only with the multiple entry visa. The single entry was only good for 60 days then it could be extended for 30 more days at a Thai immigration office and that was it. If he's wrong then will I have to leave in 90 days? I really wanted to spend the Winter in the warmth of Thailand coming home just in time for spring, camping, fishing and the best time to play golf. If you want to see the what he is talking about check out the web page for www.thaichicago.net. They only have one tourist visa form and it has no choice for multiple or double entry.

So what do you guys think, am I ok with just a tourist visa or should I maybe need to call another consulate. Thanks for you help.

Jon

Nightlife In Bangkok

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 02:08:32 +0000

Hi Guys !

Here's a good video from the nightlife in Bangkok.

It's about 90 minutes long:

http://xhamster.com/movies/178400/thai_nightlife_part_1.html

Cheers

Nana Has Facelift To Stay Young

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 18:41:00 +0000

Nana has facelift to stay young

Beer bars torn down to ensure hot spot doesn't go up in flames

One of Bangkok's most notorious nightspots, Nana Plaza on Sukhumvit Soi 4, is getting a facelift. Many of the mostly foreign customers who frequent Nana Plaza have been surprised to find that all the beer bars on the ground floor in the middle of the complex have been demolished.

The open area in the centre of the three-storey complex is now a construction site, and the hundreds of bar girls and ladyboys who work in Nana Plaza have to skirt around bags of cement and building material to get to the many go-go bars and other businesses that were set up there in the early 1990s.

The square, where construction work has been going on for a few weeks, is surrounded by three-storey buildings housing dozens of entertainment venues, including go-go and ladyboy bars.

A tall foreigner, who some of the bar girls called ''boss'', has been directing workers at the construction site.

He was reluctant to talk, as was a Thai manager of the construction firm doing the work.

But according to a source, the demolition of the beer bars at Nana Plaza was prompted by a visit by officials from the Klong Toey district office.

''After the Santika pub fire on New Year's Eve in 2008 that resulted in many deaths and injuries, officials came to the plaza to check safety issues such as fire exits.

''They want to prevent a similar accident happening here,'' said the source.

''They expressed concern about the fire hazard caused by those beer bars because they were blocking the way for fire trucks to reach any of the buildings behind them.

''If fire broke out at Nana Plaza it would cause another tragedy, so the officials ordered that those beer bars be torn down.''

When the ''boss'' was asked if the reason for the facelift was due to safety concerns by local authorities, he simply answered: ''Maybe. But there are also other reasons.''

Ms Pen, a bartender at Nana Plaza who has worked there for many years, said the square in the centre of the complex was originally a car park, but someone decided to open a small bar and more were added later on.

''Many foreigners have complained for years that Nana Plaza is a fire trap, posing a danger to hundreds of customers and employees alike, because there is only one way to escape _ and that is through the narrow entrance from Soi 4,'' she said.

The demolition of the beer bars and the reconstruction work started at the end of last month and should be finished within two months.

She said the new set-up will also feature live music and a dance floor.

''One construction worker told me that the new chairs, tables and other fittings are designed to be easily removed after closing time or during an emergency.

''The new beer bars being built there will be covered by a high roof, so that even a large fire truck will be able to drive under it.''

However, few patrons are convinced the renovations will make the place any safer if fire breaks out.

''The beer bars which are under construction won't solve this problem,'' said a regular foreign customer who thought the whole thing was a gimmick.

He prefers to sit and drink close to the entrance to Nana Plaza instead of at outlets on the second or third floor because of concerns about a fire.

Several talkative bar girls said they were also concerned about the fire hazard issue.

''We have to wait and see how safer the new beer bars at the square are going to be than those previous ones,'' said one bar girl.

http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/192294/nana-has-facelift-to-stay-young

The Best Quality Thai Food In Pattaya

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 15:17:50 +0000

Guys

I'm off to Thailand in just over 4 weeks (thank you Buddha! ) and sadly despite my best efforts to persuade a certain person it would appear I will be staying in Pattaya for the full 2 weeks.

So apart from the gogo bars and my normal beer bar routine I thought I might make an effort to enjoy the culinary experience that Thailand has to offer...and that got me thinking about where the best places are in Pattaya to enjoy Thai food.

I know about the Moom Talay place on beach Road and have eaten there before. And I have also had some cracking food at certain foodstalls over the years.

But where is good at the moment? Leave aside price...I am talking about fresh quality ingredients and fabulous cooking...it could be a top notch restaurant with prices to match or some really great food stall that nobody knows about.

Any views/recommendations/opinions?

Shabushi, New Central, 6th Floor

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 15:13:23 +0000

Phuket Police Hunt For British Kickboxer For Allegedly Killing A Us Marine

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:47:34 +0000

Phuket - Phuket police have confirmed the identity of the prime suspect in the brutal stabbing death of American Muay Thai trainee Dashawn Longfellow in the early hours this morning.

Phuketgazette.com reported that Case Officer Anukul Nookate confirmed that British Muay Thai fighter Lee Aldhouse, 28, is being sought for arrest in the murder of Longfellow at his room at the Ya Nui 2 resort near Ya Nui Beach.

Longfellow's girlfriend, "Ooy", told the Gazette that he had come on his motorbike to pick her up from work at the Freedom Bar in Rawai at around 1am today.

When he arrived, he had a couple of beers while he waited for her to finish up work, which is usually around 2am, she said.

At some point, Longfellow went to the restroom where he found the entrance to the toilet blocked by Aldhouse and a fight ensued, Ms Oi said.

According to witnesses, Mr Longfellow got the best of his opponent in the brawl before it was broken up by bar patrons and staff.

Oi said that after the fight, the American took her back to his room and left again shortly after to go to a 7-Eleven.

Aldhouse - seeing Mr Longfellow enter and leave the Rawai 7-Eleven - went into the convenience store and obtained two knives and followed his victim home. Police neither confirmed nor denied eyewitness reports that the knives were stolen from the convenience store.

As Longfellow returned home and opened the door to his room, Oi saw the Brit approach her boyfriend from behind.

She said, "At first it didn't look like he [Aldhouse] had anything. We didn't know he had a knife because his hands were in his pockets". She said a fistfight began between the American and the Brit and the latter pulled out a knife and stabbed Mr Longfellow twice in the chest.

Oi said that her boyfriend rushed inside and shut the door to protect her from the murderous Mr Aldhouse. Ms Oi called the police and an ambulance, but it was too late to save Mr Longfellow.

Police are currently searching for Mr Aldhouse, a Muay Thai fighter who has lived in Thailand for several years and is based in Rawai.

Aldhouse was scheduled to fight former world champion and long term Phuket resident Jomhod Kiatadisak at the grand opening of the Bangla Boxing Stadium last year but pulled out of the fight at the last minute due to injury.

Longfellow, a US Marine, had been in Phuket following a combat injury sustained in Afghanistan, friends said.

The Nation

Areca Hotel Gf ?

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:41:41 +0000

who was there lately in areca lodge hotel ? are thy still gf-gust friendly ?

Abhisit To Meet Hun Sen In Brussels

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 18:48:11 +0000

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and Prime Minister Hun Sen are expected to meet one-on-one when they attend the upcoming Asia Europe Meeting early October in Brussels.

Asean Secretary General Dr. Surin Pitsuwan, who was on transit to Jakarta yesterday, expressed the hope that the two leaders would take the opportunity in Belgium's capital to discuss bilateral issues of mutual concerns. The two will join other Asean leaders to meet their European counterparts in Brussels, where the EU headquarters is situated.

Surin's revelation came after his trip to Phnom Penh early this week leading a Thai-Muslim delegation to visit Cambodian-Muslim community at the invitation of Hun Sen. He also presided over a table-top exercise on pandemic management among Asean members.

The Nation

22 Artists Join National Reform Process

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 18:47:01 +0000

Some 22 renowned artists have joined the bandwagon of national reform with the hope of using arts to raise awareness on the structural change designed to overcome the predicament arising from social divisions.

The artists, led by national poet Naowarat Pongpaiboon, will work through the network of artists for reform, formed as part of the National Assembly Committee on Reform which is chaired by Prawase Wasi.

At the Wednesday's inauguration of the network, Prawase said through their arts, artists could communicate and raise the people's physical and spiritual awareness.

"Only through arts and creativity, society can rise above the prevailing crisis," he said.

The Nation

Her Majesty Sponsors Funeral Rite Of 5 Officials Killed In Helicopter Crash

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 18:44:55 +0000

Her Majesty the Queen will sponsor the funeral rite for the five officials killed in the helicopter crash in Nan on Tuesday, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suwit Khunkitti said Wednesday.

Suwit said bodies of the five official will be transported on C130 plane of the Air Force to the Don Mueng Airport at 3 pm.

The rite for the five will be sponsored by Her Majesty.

The praying rite will be held for five days at the Srimahathat Worawihan Temple in Bang Khen.

The five were Saksit Tridech, the permanent secretary for Natural Resources and the Environment, Inspector-General Kowit Panyatrong, the senior palace official Sahat Boonyawiwat, the pilot, Major Jenwit Arunsawat and the machinist, Sergeant Withoon Thien-ngern.

The Nation

Korean Man Killed When His Car Fell From Condominium Car Park

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 18:43:34 +0000

A Korean man was killed when his car plunged from the car park of a condominium in Bangkok's Sathorn area early Wednesday, police said.

Police said the man apparently slammed his car against the rail guard of the seventh floor of the car park of Silom Sweet Condominium on Soi Sathorn 12 at 3:40 am before the car plunged down, killing the man at the scene.

Police quoted a security officer of the condominium as saying that the man, who was identified as Kim Che Kyung, 39, quarreled with his Thai wife before driving his car down from the 11th floor. His car hit the wall of the car park down from the 11th floor before it crashed into the rail guard of the 7th floor and plunged down.

The man has been staying on the 12th floor for about three months.

The Nation

Missing Helicopter Found, All 5 On Board Believed Killed

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 18:42:24 +0000

The Nan police chief said Wednesday that the ill-fated helicopter of the Mineral Resources Department was spotted in Nan and the five officials on board including the Natural Resources and Environment permanent secretary, were believed to have been killed in the crash.

The wreckage of the helicopter was spotted in Ban Nam Kaeng village in Namuen district, the Nan commander told FM 105.5.

All five officials on board were believed to be killed, judging from the wreckage.

They were identified as Saksit Tridech, the permanent secretary for Natural Resources and the Environment, Inspector-General Kowit Panyatrong, and the senior palace official Sahat Boonyawiwat. The pilot was identified as Major Jenwit Arunsawat and his machinist was Sergeant Withoon Thien-ngern.

Two bodies were found so far, and one of them was the pilot.

The Nation

Areca Lodge Hotel Pattaya Thailand

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 01:39:18 +0000

I booked in at the Areca Lodge last month for 16 nights and thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The first thing to say is the staff could not have been more welcoming or efficient and I really liked the ambience of the reception area.The hotel consists of two buildings at the moment with another block on the horizon.
Whilst the standard room was nothing special it was certainly more than adequate with a King Size bed,balcony and the bathroom had a bath tub and shower with a brilliant water pressure,you could fill your bath in 2 minutes.The mini bar in the room was surprisingly inexpensive and the Gatorades took regular punishment the morning after the night before. Each room has a free electronic safe as standard and cable television.
The first night on returning to the hotel Wie was asked for her ID card which I think she was a bit put out bye as this had not happened to her before,but the next morning the lovely receptionist asked me if I would like to register her as a guest at the hotel which I did and I could tell Wie was really chuft about signing the register.The good thing about the Areca is your guest is allowed breakfast every morning at no extra charge, and we actually made it down on half adozen occasions.The buffet breakfast is really very good, You have various fruit juices, various breads you can put through the rotary toaster yourself, a cereal bar, a salad bar,a fresh fruit bar and a hot section with bacon ,sausage,saute potatoes and fried eggs and omlettes cooked to order for you, they also have a couple Thai dishes with rice for the ladies and the waiter will keep your cup topped up with as much tea or coffee as you can sup.
The Hotel has two lovely swimming pools with plenty of beds and umbrellas and they will also supply you with free towels every visit, and if you fancy a drink or something to eat just call the waiter over.
The Areca Bar has a pool table, snooker table and huge screen for watching the footie on and if there are any saddo`s not getting enough exercise there is a well equipped gym with a sauna.
On the last day of Songkran in Pattaya the hotel put on a celebration buffet at midday which was very enjoyable and it was great to see the hard working staff being allowed to join in with the water battles against the bars on the other side of the Soi.
The hotels standard rooms out of season are 1150baht per night, or 1000baht if you book through PBG
Now thats what I call Good Value.

Applications For Android Phones

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 17:27:48 +0000

Well, I have finally done it and made the technology leap by buying a smartphone. Got a HTC Desire.

Decided it was a better overall package than the iphone 4 but one thing I am not sure about is what the apps are like for android phones.

I know there are loads around but would be interested to get info on best websites to download from and recommendations for useful apps.

Any suggestions guys?

Court Rejects Bail Request For 7 Red-Shirt Leaders

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:58:55 +0000

The defence team Tuesday vowed to keep on reapplying for bail despite its latest failure to secure the temporary release of seven red-shirt leaders under remand pending trial on terrorism charge.

The defence apparently raised Bt17 million bail for the defendants but omitted to submit fresh arguments to overcome past judicial rejections of the release, the Criminal Court said in its bail review.

The latest bail applications were filed for Natthawut Saikua, Kwanchai Praipana or Sarakham, Yoswarit Chuklom, aka Jeng Dokchik, Nisit Sinthuprai and Wiphuthalaeng Pattanaphuthai.

Another application for weng Tojirakarn was separately submitted earlier but came under review in the same batch as the six because of the additional statement just given by Weng's wife Thida pleading for his release.

In the absence of new evidence to warrant the release, the lower court found no ground to grant bail.

In another bail review involving the reds at the appellate level, the high court rejected the bail appeal filed by Kokaew Pikulthong and Somchai Paiboon.

Kokaew and Paiboon were trying to overturn their bail rejection for charges related to the emergency rule violations and the instigation of illegal activities.

The Nation

Boonjong: Bhum Jai Thai To Support Budget Bill

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:57:47 +0000

Deputy Interior Minister Boonjong Wongtrairat said Tuesday that his Bhum Jai Thai Party would fully support the 2011 Budget.

The speculation about the coalition rift over the CNG bus leasing was false because the project was still intact pending a review, he said, voicing confidence that the prime minister would give his approval following the completion of the scrutiny within a few months.

"The project is sound and beneficial to the people because it is the only way to salvage the Bangkok bus service which is running at the loss of Bt7 million per day," he said.

He said his fellow MPs from Bhum Jai Thai were well disciplined amd would vote along the partisan line, dismissing the allegation about dissident votes.

The Nation

Suthep Confident Budget Bill To Sail Through House

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:56:58 +0000

Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban Tuesday reaffirmed his prediction that the Budget Bill would definitely be approved by the coalition vote.

He played down a concern that some coalition MPs from Puea Pandin Party might oppose the spending plans.

The Nation

Democrat May Not Rerun Mps Who Skip Budget Bill Debate

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:56:07 +0000

The Democrat Party may not endorse the re-election bids for those MPs absent from the budget debate, Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said Tuesday, demanding the Democrats turning out full force for today's House session.

"Considering the circumstances, the constituents expect their representatives to work hard and those MPs found lapsed in their duty would have to face the consequences," he said.

The Nation

Mineral Resources Department Helicopter Missing

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:54:43 +0000

A helicopter of the Mineral Resources Department went missing Tuesday morning, officials said.

They said the helicopter could not be accounted for at 7:33 am or about two hours after it lifted off from the department's office in Phitsanulok and headed to Nan to survey a forest.

It lost contact with the control tower while flying over the forest, which straddles Prae and Uttradit.

Officials in Prae were deployed to check the area of forest after villagers said they saw the helicopter flying over the area between Tambon Bankas and Tambon Bankwang in Phrae's Soongmen district.

The Nation.

Army Chief Confident New Southern Body Will Improve Operations To End Violence

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:46:21 +0000

Army Commander-in-Chief Gen Anupong Paochinda Tuesday expressed confidence that the new Southern Border Province Administrative Centre will contribute to the efforts of the authorities to end violence in the deep South.

The Army chief welcomed the House's passage of the Southern Border Province Administrative Centre Bill last week.

The bill will remove he agency from the jurisdiction of the Interior Ministry to be directly under the premier.

The bill defined the southern border provinces as Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala and some districts of Songkhla, including Chana, Thepha, Na Thawi and Saba Yoi. It also required the appointment of an SBPAC secretary-general as well as the establishment of a committee on development strategies for the southern border provinces.

The SBPAC is also authorised to rehabilitate those affected by government officials' conducts related to the violence in the South.

"The works there will be improved," Anupong said, addig that there is no need to further improve the structure and works of the Internal Security Operations Command.

The Nation.

Visa For Grandaughter.

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 14:57:30 +0000

As I mentions, my misses as got cancer. She wants to bring her Daughter to the UK. To take care of her while she is ill. The problem is she as got a Five year old Daughter. I have been to the local immigration. They have told me it should not be a problem for the Daughter to get a visa but the Grandaughter is a different thing, She would have to go to school by law. That means she would not be a visitor but a scholar and would need to go to a private school. We live in Jersey and its not the cheapest place. Anyone got ant ideas around this. Thanks in advance.
Plum.