CharlieH

A quantity of posts removed. A reminder to all members: If a topic isn’t for you, simply move on. Personal attacks and acidic comments add nothing to the discussion and will be removed. Constructive debate or contributions are welcome, but targeting others with hostility is not. If necessary, a heavier hand will be used to enforce this. Let’s keep the forum a place for mutual respect and discussions, not personal attacks and vendettas.

The idea that all liars get caught is an oversimplification that ignores the complexity of human behavior and the systems that allow some lies to persist. It can be hard to accept, but it’s important to acknowledge that things aren't always as clear-cut as we’d like them to be. Better examples than Saville would be.... Frank Abignail Jr. Bernie Madeoff John Wayne Gacy !

Rent dont buy, and never spend more than you are prepared to lose ! You can apply that to almost anything. 😀

MOVED to Insurance forum

In Thailand, photography and filming near royal residences are subject to strict regulations to respect the privacy and security of the Royal Family. While there isn't a publicly available compilation of official signs or written laws specifically addressing photography restrictions near these residences, it's common to encounter local law enforcement or security personnel enforcing these rules on-site. The Thai lèse-majesté law, outlined in Section 112 of the Thai Criminal Code, criminalizes defamation, insults, or threats against the King, Queen, Heir-apparent, or Regent, with penalties ranging from three to fifteen years of imprisonment. This law underscores the importance Thailand places on protecting the dignity of the monarchy. Wikipedia For foreign filmmakers, the Thailand Film and Video Act B.E. 2551 (2008) mandates obtaining a permit from the Thailand Film Office, Department of Tourism, before conducting any filming activities. This process involves hiring a local coordinator registered with the Thailand Film Office to assist with the application and ensure compliance with local regulations. English Speaking Lawyers Thailand Given the sensitivity surrounding royal premises, it's advisable to exercise caution when filming or photographing near such areas. Always seek permission from local authorities or security personnel before capturing images or footage near royal residences. While there may not be official signs detailing these restrictions, adhering to guidance from on-site officials and being aware of local customs and laws will help ensure respectful and lawful conduct.

Thailand is known for its vibrant street food and bold flavors, but did you know that some of the most common ingredients in Thai cuisine also pack incredible health benefits? From digestion-boosting herbs to antioxidant-rich fruits, these everyday foods could give your wellness a surprising boost. Let’s dive in! 1. Thai Basil – The Blood Sugar Balancer Not just a fragrant addition to stir-fries, Thai basil contains eugenol, a compound that helps regulate blood sugar levels and fights inflammation. It’s also great for digestion, making it a delicious and functional ingredient in Thai cuisine. Example Dish: Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles) 2. Holy Basil – The Stress Reliever Often used in the famous Pad Krapow, holy basil is considered an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body manage stress. It has antibacterial properties and may even support respiratory health. Who knew your favorite spicy stir-fry could be so calming? Example Dish: Pad Krapow (Spicy Basil Stir-Fry) 3. Lemongrass – The Detox Hero A staple in Thai soups and teas, lemongrass is packed with antioxidants that help detox the body. It also aids digestion, reduces bloating, and has natural antibacterial properties, making it a powerful addition to your diet. Example Dish: Tom Yum (Hot and Sour Soup) 4. Green Papaya – The Digestive Booster Used in the famous Som Tum (papaya salad), green papaya contains papain, an enzyme that aids digestion and protein absorption. This makes it an excellent post-workout food to help with muscle recovery. Example Dish: Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad) 5. Tamarind – The Gut Healer Whether in dipping sauces, curries, or desserts, tamarind is a natural laxative that supports gut health. It’s also rich in antioxidants and may help regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Example Dish: Pad Thai (Stir-Fried Noodles) 6. Roselle – The Heart’s Best Friend This deep-red flower is commonly made into tea, known for its ability to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol. Roselle is also packed with vitamin C, giving your immune system a boost while keeping your heart happy. Example Dish: Roselle Tea (Refreshing Herbal Tea) 7. Moringa Leaves – The Nutrient Powerhouse Often added to soups and curries, moringa leaves are a superfood packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein. They have anti-inflammatory properties and may even help with anti-aging and cognitive function. Example Dish: Gaeng Om (Isan Herbal Soup) 8. Jackfruit – The Protein-Packed Fruit While its sweet flesh is delicious, don’t overlook jackfruit seeds! They are high in protein, iron, and fiber, supporting muscle growth, gut health, and better digestion. Next time you eat jackfruit, save those seeds! Example Dish: Khanom Kluay (Steamed Banana and Jackfruit Cake) 9. Butterfly Pea Flower – The Brain Booster A common ingredient in bright blue Thai herbal teas, butterfly pea flower is rich in antioxidants that support brain function and circulation. Plus, its anti-inflammatory properties are great for skin and eye health. Example Dish: Butterfly Pea Tea (Blue Herbal Tea) 10. Fermented Fish – The Probiotic Powerhouse A key ingredient in Northeastern Thai cuisine, fermented fish is loaded with probiotics that promote gut health. It’s also rich in B vitamins, which are essential for energy and brain function. Example Dish: Som Tum Pla Ra (Green Papaya Salad with Fermented Fish) Bringing Thai Superfoods into Your Life These ingredients aren’t just delicious—they’re nature’s medicine, hiding in plain sight in your daily meals. Whether you’re enjoying a spicy stir-fry, a refreshing herbal tea, or a tangy fruit salad, you’re giving your body powerful nutrients without even trying! What’s your favourite Thai superfood? Have you noticed any health benefits from incorporating these into your diet?

Across the world, ancient civilisations built vast underground cities—some capable of housing thousands. From Turkey to China, the Grand Canyon to Antarctica, these hidden metropolises raise a compelling question: Why did so many cultures, separated by continents, choose to go underground? Global Network of Hidden Cities Turkey (Derinkuyu & Kaymaklı, 5000+ years old): Housed up to 20,000 people, possibly built for defense against invaders. Iran (Nushabad, 1500+ years old): A hidden, three-level refuge from war and extreme heat. Egypt (Hawara Labyrinth, Age Unknown): Alleged to contain 3,000 underground rooms, possibly holding sacred knowledge. Ecuador (Cueva de los Tayos, Age Unknown): Mysterious smooth tunnels explored by Neil Armstrong in 1976. China (Underground Great Wall, Age Unclear): Ancient texts reference entire underground fortresses. Grand Canyon (Tunnels, 1909 Report): Claims of hidden caverns filled with lost artefacts. Antarctica (Frozen Tunnels, Age Unknown): Satellite images hint at vast underground structures beneath the ice. Why Did They Go Underground? War & Survival: Many sites served as defensive hideouts from invaders. Climate Catastrophes: Volcanic eruptions, droughts, or an Ice Age may have forced people below. Cosmic or Geological Events: Some believe ancient civilisations were protecting themselves from unknown dangers. Lost Advanced Civilisations?: The precision of certain structures hints at sophisticated lost knowledge. When we examine these sites on a historical timeline, a pattern emerges: 5000+ years ago: Turkey’s Derinkuyu and the Egyptian labyrinth. 2000–1500 years ago: Iran’s Nushabad, China’s underground defenses. ? years ago: Ecuador’s Cueva de los Tayos and rumored Grand Canyon tunnels. Antarctica? Could frozen tunnels hold clues to an even older civilization? How did civilizations separated by oceans and continents all develop massive underground structures? Was it shared knowledge, independent invention—or something more? A Hidden Past Yet to Be Uncovered With radar scans detecting unexplored subterranean structures, could more underground cities be waiting to be found? Did ancient people know something we don’t? And if so, are we destined to return below once again?

Antarctica is a land of ice and mystery, a frozen world at the bottom of the Earth that remains largely unexplored. It is the only continent without permanent human settlements, where dozens of nations have agreed not to stake claims or exploit its resources. But why? What is so special about Antarctica that world powers, often at odds, have come together to protect it from outsiders? Adding to the intrigue, large sections of Antarctica are no-fly zones, and access to certain areas is strictly prohibited. While official explanations cite extreme weather and safety concerns, some believe there is more to the story. Could Antarctica be hiding something beneath its thick layers of ice—something the world is not ready to know? The Antarctica No-Fly Zones: Why the Restrictions? Antarctica is vast and remote, yet airspace over some regions is highly restricted. The official reason? Unpredictable weather, magnetic anomalies, and a lack of emergency landing sites. However, modern aircraft, including military planes, routinely operate in extreme conditions elsewhere—so why is Antarctica different? Some of the most restricted areas include: The South Pole region – Allegedly due to scientific research stations and unpredictable wind currents. Areas near certain research bases – Nations have established exclusion zones, citing environmental concerns. East Antarctica – Some reports claim entire sections are off-limits without clear justification. Pilots have reported being denied clearance to fly over certain Antarctic regions without explanation. This secrecy has fueled speculation that governments are hiding something—but what? The Antarctic Treaty: A Global Pact of Silence? In 1959, one of the strangest international agreements in history was signed: the Antarctic Treaty. This treaty, which took effect in 1961, prohibits: Any new territorial claims Military activity or weapons testing Mining and resource exploitation Today, over 50 nations uphold the treaty, despite often clashing over land and resources elsewhere. If Antarctica is just a frozen wasteland, why such strict protections? Could it be a front to hide something beneath the ice? Operation Highjump: A Military Mission or Something More? One of the most mysterious Antarctic operations was Operation Highjump in 1946-1947, led by Admiral Richard E. Byrd. The U.S. Navy sent: 4,700 personnel 13 ships (including an aircraft carrier) 33 aircraft The mission’s stated goals were to establish a U.S. presence, train personnel for cold-weather operations, and test equipment. But things didn’t go as planned. The expedition was suddenly cut short after just 8 weeks, despite being planned for 6 months. What Went Wrong? The official explanation was bad weather and logistical problems. But Byrd made cryptic comments afterward, warning that the U.S. needed to be prepared for enemy aircraft that could travel from pole to pole at incredible speeds. Some believe the mission encountered something unexpected—possibly secret Nazi bases, advanced technology, or even extraterrestrial forces. What Lies Beneath the Ice? Theories and Unanswered Questions 1. Lost Civilizations and Ancient Structures Antarctica wasn’t always frozen. Some theorists believe it once housed an ancient civilization. Supporting this idea is the Piri Reis Map, a 16th-century map that appears to show Antarctica without ice—suggesting someone may have mapped it long before modern discovery. Could ancient ruins be buried beneath the ice? The discovery of Lake Vostok, a massive subglacial lake sealed off from the surface for millions of years, proves that hidden worlds exist beneath Antarctica. 2. The Nazi Antarctica Base Theory Before WWII, Nazi Germany launched an Antarctic expedition in 1938, claiming a region called Neuschwabenland. Some believe they established a hidden base—Base 211—and that Operation Highjump was really an attempt to destroy or take control of it. Conspiracy theorists suggest that advanced Nazi technology, possibly even linked to UFOs, was hidden beneath the ice, and that remnants of the Third Reich survived underground. While no concrete evidence has surfaced, reports of unexplained aerial encounters over Antarctica persist. 3. Secret Military and Research Facilities Despite the Antarctic Treaty’s ban on military activity, some suspect that the world’s superpowers maintain secret bases under the guise of scientific research. Facilities like: McMurdo Station (USA) Neumayer Station III (Germany) Vostok Station (Russia) These are just the publicly known outposts. What about underground facilities? Could governments be hiding something below the ice—perhaps advanced technology, biological experiments, or even alien artifacts? 4. A Gateway to Inner Earth? A more fringe theory suggests that Antarctica contains an entrance to Hollow Earth—an ancient idea that the planet isn’t solid but houses vast inner realms. Admiral Byrd allegedly wrote about flying into a lush, green land beyond the ice, encountering an advanced race. Some claim his diary was classified, and he was forced into silence. Why So Many Questions, Yet So Few Answers? For a place that is supposedly just a frozen wasteland, Antarctica has a suspicious number of restricted zones, secretive treaties, and abandoned military operations. Why do world governments cooperate so closely over Antarctica? Why are there no-fly zones over certain regions? Why was Operation Highjump cut short? What secrets lie buried beneath the ice? Until unrestricted access is granted, the true mysteries of Antarctica will remain frozen—hidden beneath layers of ice and secrecy.

Let's not inject comments aimed at connecting the wrong people to this kind of story. Thank you.

Sounds like quite the scene, Bob. Thailand never seems to have a dull moment for you! I can only imagine the look on Vlad Senior’s face—probably worth the price of admission. At least you and Peter got to enjoy the rest of your beach day in peace. Stay safe out there!

Travel Forum - MOVED

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Ive always maintained that a person AND his luggage in total is ALL werighed together at check-in and they are charged accordingly. Just like carry-on luggage has fixed dimensions, so there should be for seat occupation, go over it, and you have to buy 2 seats or even 3 depending on the size. The only person then affected is the person themselves.

Compiling a daily newsletter is a time-consuming process, especially while ensuring the news stays fresh. The timing change was necessary to keep things manageable. The only other option would be to prepare it the day before, but then it wouldn't be as current. This is the best balance. Also, it's a free newsletter—just like using the website. An hour or so difference in delivery shouldn't be that much of an issue. Took you 3 weeks to notice ?

Post commenting on moderation, and post responding to it have been removed.

Just for you.........

Better in the PATTAYA forum ...MOVED

Id prefer the DHL delivery personally...😆

No doubt about that Asian girls are by far the prettiest and most attractive. BUT if you had to choose, which one is better ? Snaptik.app_7482612459610672402.mp4

MANILA, Philippines — Four areas in the Philippines are expected to experience the highest heat index of 41°C on Monday, March 17, 2025, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa). In its Sunday 5 p.m. bulletin, Pagasa reported that its monitoring stations in Coron (Palawan), Puerto Princesa City (Palawan), Catbalogan (Samar), and Guiuan (Eastern Samar) are forecasted to reach the extreme "caution" level of 33°C to 41°C. At this level, individuals may experience heat cramps and exhaustion, with heat stroke possible under prolonged sun exposure. Pagasa advises residents in affected areas to stay indoors and stay hydrated to minimize health risks.

Pageant veterans (from left) Katrina Llegado, Winwyn Marquez, and Yllana Aduana. MISS UNIVERSE PHILIPPINES FACEBOOK PHOTOS MANILA, Philippines — Another round of voting has begun for the Miss Universe Philippines 2025 pageant, this time featuring the "Swimsuit Showcase", where the 69 delegates flaunt their figures in a variety of creative photographs. The pageant’s official social media pages released the delegates’ swimsuit photos—three per candidate—on Sunday, March 16. This comes after the organization announced the Top 10 candidates from the previous "Personality Showcase" voting, which ran from March 1 to 15. Fans can cast their votes for the swimsuit round until March 31, with the highest-ranked delegates securing guaranteed spots in key segments of the competition. For this showcase, the contestants selected their own swimsuits, resulting in a diverse collection of images featuring unique poses, lighting setups, backgrounds, and compositions. As excitement builds, supporters are encouraged to vote and help their favorite delegates advance in the competition.

MANILA, Philippines — Honeylet Avanceña, the common-law wife of former President Rodrigo Duterte, has spoken out against his detention in The Hague, Netherlands, decrying what she described as excessive and unjust treatment. Fighting back tears in an interview with SMNI, Avanceña said Duterte did not deserve the ordeal he is facing after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest order against him for alleged crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s war on illegal drugs. “He doesn’t deserve this kind of treatment,” she said, echoing claims from Duterte’s camp that the former leader was “kidnapped.” Duterte was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on March 11, upon his return from Hong Kong, where he was accompanied by Avanceña and their daughter Kitty. His former executive secretary, Salvador Medialdea, previously labeled the arrest as “pure, simple kidnapping” and dismissed the ICC’s authority over Duterte. The case has sparked a heated debate in the Philippines, with Duterte’s allies condemning the ICC’s actions, while human rights advocates continue to push for accountability. Duterte was transferred to Villamor Air Base before being flown to The Hague on March 12.

Cambodian authorities have arrested four suspects in connection with the shocking murder of a Chinese national, who was thrown from the 7th floor of a casino on the Cambodian-Vietnamese border before being buried in a cashew farm. Lieutenant Colonel Nuon Bunny, Deputy Chief of the Provincial Criminal Police Office in Tboung Khmum province, revealed that the victim’s body was discovered on March 2, 2025, when a villager stumbled upon the shallow grave in Trapaing Phlong II village. “According to the police’s autopsy report, the victim was a Chinese man aged between 25 and 35. His body was severely injured—both legs and hands were broken, as well as his neck,” Lt. Col. Bunny stated. Police determined that the murder took place on February 27. The suspects allegedly killed the man, buried him in the cashew farm, and fled the province. Following an intensive investigation, authorities tracked down and arrested four men—two Chinese and two Myanmar nationals—on March 13 in Sihanoukville. They were subsequently transferred to Tboung Khmum Provincial Police for interrogation and further legal action. The suspects have been identified as: Xiao Lin, 26 (China) Xu Ningxun, 30 (China) Sai Aung Khay, 19 (Myanmar) Angta Ailai, 23 (Myanmar) During questioning, all four suspects reportedly confessed to the brutal killing. According to their statements, a heated verbal argument escalated into violence. They allegedly beat and choked the victim before throwing him from the 7th floor of the casino in Ponhea Krek district. Realizing the gravity of their crime, they allegedly transported the body to the cashew farm later that night, buried it, and fled the area. The suspects now face serious charges of murder and concealment of a corpse, which carry prison sentences of 10 to 15 years if convicted. The case highlights growing concerns over violent crimes linked to casinos in border areas, with authorities vowing to crack down on criminal networks operating in these regions.

Travel blogger Chris Rodriguez (L), and his fiancée Gladys Seara receive the retrieved bag from police on Saturday. National Police Popular travel vlogger Chris Rodriguez, better known as Travelwithcris, and his fiancée Gladys Seara are singing Cambodia’s praises after police nabbed a bag snatcher in record time. Their message? Cambodia is safe! The drama unfolded on Saturday night when Seara was robbed while strolling past Phnom Penh’s Night Market along the riverside. The thief struck fast, swiping her bag right off her shoulder before speeding away on a motorcycle. Rodriguez wasted no time, going live on his Travelwithcris page, where thousands tuned in to watch the unfolding nightmare. But the Cambodian police weren’t about to let a tourist get robbed on their watch. Within hours, they tracked down the suspect, recovering crucial documents, bank cards, and Seara’s Spanish passport. However, her Venezuelan passport was still missing. The thief was quickly hauled off to the Criminal Police Department for further questioning. Just four hours after the theft, the couple had their bag back, and they couldn’t be more grateful. Rodriguez took to social media, posting a heartfelt thank-you video for the Cambodian authorities. “It’s only been four hours since the bag was snatched from my wife, and I am super happy to say that the Cambodian police and authorities have recovered my wife’s belongings. Not only that, but they also apprehended the criminal,” Rodriguez told his followers. He didn’t hold back in praising the police and had a stern warning for any would-be thieves: “To anyone thinking about stealing bags or phones—don’t do it in Cambodia. They’re going to catch you, and they’re going to catch you fast. Don’t be that person who ruins what the Cambodian people have worked so hard for. Cambodia is a beautiful country.” Clearly moved by the swift action, Rodriguez gushed about his love for Cambodia and its people: “The Khmer people are beautiful, and they want the best for Cambodia. I feel so blessed that you guys care about me and love me. I love your country. I’m just happy our belongings are back, and more importantly, that another criminal is off the streets. Cambodia deserves the best. Man, I love this country so much.” Standing outside the Wat Phnom police post, Rodriguez also made a suggestion: “Hopefully, there will be more changes. Personally, I think police should be on standby in all tourist areas.” The YouTube star, who boasts over 650,000 subscribers, has long been a fan of Cambodia. In fact, he previously uploaded a video titled ‘Here’s Why I Love Cambodia 🇰🇭’, where he raved about the country’s charm. But just hours before the happy ending, things were looking grim. In a video shot moments after the robbery, a visibly shaken Rodriguez described the terrifying moment: “Guys, she just got robbed right now in Phnom Penh. They just came up and took her bag from a motorcycle. This is unreal—it just happened! Man, this is true what they’re saying. You can’t walk around with anything here. They just took the bag off her shoulder, and no one helped. It’s crazy. They took everything from my fiancée.” “Look at this guy! They literally grabbed her arm and pulled the bag from the motorcycle. Unbelievable, guys! All of her money, her cards, and even her passport are gone. It’s unreal,” he added. Luckily, Phnom Penh police were already on the case. According to the Phnom Penh Municipal Police Information and Quick Reaction team, officers launched an immediate response. Lieutenant General Chuon Narin, Commissioner of Phnom Penh Police, confirmed that the suspect—a known repeat offender—was tracked down by search and rescue forces in Toul Sangke Sangkat, Russey Keo District, just a few hours after the crime. Another thief off the streets, a relieved couple, and one seriously efficient police force—Cambodia just proved it doesn’t play around when it comes to protecting its visitors!

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has thrown down the gauntlet to overseas opposition groups stirring up tensions over the Cambodia-Thai border. These so-called "patriots" love to fan the flames of conflict, but Hun Manet has a challenge for them—if they’re so committed, why not prove it? In a fiery statement, Hun Manet offered to arm these critics, equip them with military gear, and station them at the Ta Moan Thom border for six months. Let them experience what Cambodia’s soldiers endure before they run their mouths. Without naming names, his remarks were clearly aimed at longtime opposition figure Sam Rainsy and his supporters, who have been making noise about border issues involving Koh Kut, Ta Moan Thom, and other disputed areas. Flashback to 2008: Where Were They? The Prime Minister didn’t hold back as he recalled the 2008 Preah Vihear Temple conflict. While Cambodian troops fought on the front lines, opposition politicians stayed cozy in parliament, cashing their salaries while regular citizens dug into their own pockets to support the army. Worse yet, these critics dismissed the Cambodia-Thai conflict as a “staged war” instead of backing their own country. “To those who call us weak—especially politicians abroad—where were you in 2008?” Hun Manet challenged. “Not one of you stepped up to help. Instead, you accused the government of staging a conflict and acting foolishly.” The Big Challenge: Come and Prove Your Patriotism! In a bold move, Hun Manet laid down an open invitation: “If you really want to prove your patriotism, stop hiding behind empty words. I guarantee you won’t be arrested. Come here, and I’ll personally assign you a platoon. You’ll be stationed at a military base, fully equipped, and deployed to the border. Spend six months there, like our soldiers do. Ask them—are they not patriotic? They stay not because they’re scared but because they know armed conflict isn’t the answer. Real leadership is about solving disputes through negotiation, not reckless escalation.” But he also made one thing clear: opposition leaders shouldn’t send their Cambodian supporters to fight on their behalf. If they want action, they should step up themselves. Border Drama and Thai Ultra-Nationalists The Prime Minister reinforced that war isn’t the solution, only a last resort. Recent Thai nationalist protests claiming Ta Moan Thom as Thai territory didn’t go unnoticed, but Hun Manet pointed out that the Thai military stepped in to prevent them from escalating. It’s an internal political issue for Thailand, and Cambodia isn’t interested in interfering. However, he also made it crystal clear: if Thai forces ever cross into Cambodian territory, his government will defend it—by any means necessary. Fake News and False Apologies? Addressing another controversy, Hun Manet slammed false reports in Thai media that claimed he and Cambodian Defense Minister Tea Seiha had apologized to Thailand over a border incident. The dispute started when Thai soldiers blocked Cambodian civilians from singing patriotic songs at Ta Moan Thom Temple. “That’s nothing but misinformation designed for political gain,” he said. He pointed out that Thailand’s own Defense Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, had publicly debunked the claims—no such apology was ever made. Protecting Borders Through Development, Not Just Military Might Beyond military defense, Hun Manet emphasized that real border security comes through national development—building infrastructure like border roads to strengthen Cambodia’s territorial presence and boost regional growth. Meanwhile, Yang Peou, Secretary-General of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, pointed out that Cambodia-Thailand border disputes are nothing new. From the Preah Vihear clashes to the Koh Kut and Ta Moan Thom issues, Thailand has a history of using ultra-nationalist tactics to pressure Cambodia for its own political gain. “This is a recurring strategy among Thai politicians,” Yang Peou noted. Bottom Line? Less Talk, More Action! Hun Manet’s message is loud and clear: if exiled opposition figures truly believe in their cause, they should prove it—not from behind a keyboard, but on the front lines. Otherwise, it’s just more political theater.