CharlieH

Finance Forum - MOVED

Care to share for others what you consider those "red flags" to be ?

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Lots of important and useful information for many travellers and residents alike.

Shoulda been arrested for that haircut alone 😀

Be interesting to hear why you chose those three over the usual companies we see ?

The output is:Image via kanchanachitkhamma from Canva As an expat, handling a medical emergency in Thailand can be difficult, especially without the know-how and the right information. In this guide, we will be explaining what to do if you find yourself in a medical emergency, focusing on important contact numbers, the difference between public and private hospitals, dealing with language barriers, and just how essential health insurance is. Knowing these few steps can save you in an emergency, ensuring that you and many expats quickly get the care they need. Immediate steps to take in an emergency The output is:Image via ckstockphoto from Canva Knowing what to do in a medical emergency can make a world of difference, and it starts with quick and decisive action, along with clear communication. Follow these steps and you will be prepared to handle the situation. Stay calm and assess the situation When in a medical emergency, stay calm and do not panic. To make better decisions and act quickly, you must do so with a clear head. Start by looking around and assessing the situation around you and what can be done. Ask yourself a few questions: What is the problem? Is the patient responsive? And if it is you, how bad is it? Is the situation around you still dangerous? Can anyone offer a helping hand? Be sure to keep your eyes peeled to your surroundings. Call emergency services If medical assistance is necessary, start by calling for national emergency medical services at 1669; it's free to call and works anywhere in Thailand. If you need police assistance or an ambulance, call 911 instead. For those in Bangkok, call 1646 instead for quicker local emergency assistance. Be sure to give clear and concise information: the problem, your location, and the condition of the patient. Keep your English simple if language and communication pose a problem. Describe the situation clearly To ensure that first responders can understand the issue at hand, explain clearly. Describe the symptoms, injuries, and medical history if you are aware of it. You can always ask those around you to help communicate in Thai if need be, giving responders a clear image of what they need to provide. When talking to an operator, there are a few key details that you should share. Location: Look around for any street names, landmarks, addresses, or anything in general that may give the operator a better picture of where the emergency is. Especially in Bangkok, these details are crucial in determining the next course of action. Callback number: Give the operator your number just in case they need to call you back Emergency: Tell them what the emergency is; if you are unsure, describe the patient’s injury the best you can. This will ensure that the right resources are provided. Keep updating: Stay in contact with the operator and give them constant updates as situations can change for the worse. How can you assist the ambulances? The output is:Image via Marje from Getty Images Signature To make sure that the injured party receives timely care, getting ready for the ambulance is crucial. Having accurate information and knowing how to act can make a world of difference. The next outlined steps will provide you with a framework of how to prepare effectively while waiting for medical services. Stay with the patient Remain by the patient’s side until help arrives. You can provide medical assistance if you have any first aid knowledge. Monitoring breathing and consciousness can make a huge difference. If not, stay focused on keeping the patient calm, comfortable, and reassured. Keep the ambulance and emergency service updated Emergencies can quickly nosedive. You may have to move the patient to a safer location, or they may be stubborn and refuse help. To ensure that ambulances reach the right place with the right tools, constant information is needed to keep them updated. Choosing a hospital The output is:Image via primeimages from Getty Images Signature What you might not know is that you can choose which hospital to send the patient to. Most hospitals have their fleet of ambulances and volunteer emergency rescue teams around the clock who are more than happy to help. Calling for emergency services is only recommended in severe cases. But sometimes, the abundance of phone numbers to call can get confusing during an emergency already so tense and scary. Private vs. public hospitals Either option comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Private hospitals, although pricier, may be ideal for timely and attentive care as they offer shorter wait times, industry-leading staff, and groundbreaking technologies. But it may not be an option for everyone. Public hospitals are indeed more accessible to the masses. They will be more affordable and have the facilities to handle most medical emergencies, just without the same level of convenience and efficiency when compared to their private counterparts. They may also have longer wait times and fewer staff who are experienced in English. Private ambulances Just like the hospitals, private ambulances in Thailand are better equipped and will respond in a more timely manner. They offer initial treatment while en route to the hospital. If time is of the essence, it may be worth it to bite the bullet and opt for private services in this instance to make sure that the patient receives immediate care. Volunteer ambulances Bangkok is a densely populated city; there is no doubt about it. When ambulances are overwhelmed, these guys can help save the day before ambulances arrive. If you have a particular volunteer team that you like, it's best to keep them in mind. Dealing with language barriers The output is:Image via Ton Photograph from Getty Images As an expat, the language barrier can prove to be a headache in emergencies. To avoid any misunderstandings, try to keep clear communication. But alongside this, there are helpful tools that can make a big difference during emergencies. Using translation applications Apps such as Google Translate can be your best friend in situations like these, offering quick and reliable translations with shortcuts taken when it comes to medical lingo. These apps also allow you to speak or type specific phrases to quickly and effectively communicate with the medical crew. Ask for English-speaking staff Plenty of private and international hospitals in Thailand have English-speaking staff. If communication poses an issue, be sure to ask for someone who understands the language to make sure that any problem is clearly understood. Payment and Insurance The output is:Image via arturmarciniecphotos from Canva Planning ahead is crucial to ensure that you get the care that you need. For many expats in Thailand, the process can seem foreign at first glance, but just having insurance and emergency funds already makes a huge difference. Medical costs in Thailand Depending on the hospital and treatment required, healthcare costs may vary. Public hospitals are generally cheaper, but the costs will ultimately depend on the services provided. Private hospitals may require payment upfront, with outpatient costs ranging up to 4,500 baht and overnight stays racking up a bill of up to 30,000 baht. Using travel or health insurance For expats in Thailand, few things are as important as health insurance. Comprehensive insurance plans will help with emergencies, overnight stays, and outpatient care. For long-term residents, Cigna has long been the leading insurance provider, offering personalised plans with essential services such as emergency medical evacuations. Post-emergency follow-up Image via NATEE MEEPIAN from Natee Meepian's Images from Canva Following a medical emergency, follow-ups are important, so be sure to keep any medical records, prescribed treatments and any insurance claims that can help you keep track of everything. Medical records Be sure to keep copies of any medical records when you have to go for follow-up appointments. Most hospitals in Thailand do provide records for international patients, so be sure to request detailed reports including diagnosis, treatments, and any follow-up instructions. This will save headaches down the line for insurance claims for future visits. Prescription refills To make the process of getting medication refills much easier, you can ask for prescriptions to take to a pharmacy. Most pharmacies around have English-speaking staff and can offer you a helping hand with a good supply of medication for you to continue your treatment without having to visit the hospital. Insurance claims During any visit to the hospital, keep track of every bill, report and receipt, staying organised will eliminate any potential delays. Providers such as Cigna offer clear guidelines and processes for expats, ensuring quick reimbursement. Health insurance for expats in Thailand Managing healthcare is part of the challenges of living in Thailand. But it doesn't have to be hard. Private health insurance firms such as Cigna are renowned for providing access to reliable care during health emergencies or ongoing health problems. They design their plans to meet the exact needs of expats, while also offering a range of benefits. Benefits of Cigna’s plans Inpatient care: Coverage of up to US$1,000,000 for annual hospital visits Outpatient visits: US$25,000 per year coverage for doctor consuiltations\ Chronic condition support: Ongoing treatment of chronic illnesses receive full coverage Emergency evacuation: Worldwide coverage for life-threatening situations Preventative care: Coverage for medical checkups, screenings, and vaccinations Addons: Customisable options for dental, vision, and maternity care. There is no better time than now to get coverage with a health insurance plan in 2025. Trust Cigna and get a free quote today. By being prepared to handle emergency situations, expats in Thailand can get a better picture of how to provide quick and urgent medical care. From knowing the differences between private and public hospitals, language barriers, and how to act in emergencies, you can make a difference in life-or-death situations. Having health insurance like Cigna by your side is essential when it comes to ensuring proper care. *Cigna Healthcare reserves the right to amend or withdraw a promotion at any time without notice. This discount will apply for the lifetime of the policy and is only eligible to new Cigna Global Individual customers. The discount may only be applied by a sales agent and cannot be applied in conjunction with any other offer, except the 10% discount given to policies paid annually in full. If you choose to pay your policy annually in full, your 10% discount will be applied after the 10% annual discount has been applied. Only Cigna Global Individual Policies are eligible for the 10% discount. A minimum purchase value of $2000 for policies based in Europe is applicable. Policies based in the rest of the world require a minimum purchase value of $3000 to be eligible. Summary of original article by The Thaiger

Now that's the way to deal with them ! cd433975e76f0212b56041cbef397f8e.mp4

Off topic bickering removed. This is NOT about Cha Am !

all answered in the article on this Travel forum and linked for you above.

The purpose of the article is to provide insights into the complexities of relationships in Thailand. While seasoned expats like yourself may have valuable experience, the forum serves a much wider audience that includes many newcomers seeking information and guidance. Hopefully the article and contributions from members will provide that.

In the neon-lit streets of Pattaya, a multifaceted narrative unfolds—one that showcases the allure of Thai women and the experiences of foreign men who find themselves enchanted by their charm. Are these relationships rooted in genuine affection, or do they harbour darker undertones? While some stories depict love and connection, others reveal the complexities of potential exploitation. The reality is often a mixture of both, woven with layers of human emotion and cultural nuance. Enter the Lonely Man Consider the quintessential foreigner: perhaps a divorcee, in his late 40s or early 50s, navigating the rocky waters of life post-marriage. He’s been alone for too long, trapped in a cycle of work and loneliness, perhaps even going through his own version of a male menopause. The years have not been kind, and the idea of intimacy feels like a distant memory, overshadowed by stale relationships and a palpable void in his life. The excitement of love and affection has faded into the background. But then, stumbling through a bar or enjoying a stroll on the beach, he encounters her—the vibrant Thai woman with a dazzling smile and an alluring figure. She showers him with affection and attention, igniting a spark he thought was lost forever. It’s intoxicating, almost like a narcotic. She admires him, laughs at his jokes, and makes him feel like the center of her universe. For the first time in years, he feels alive. Who wouldn’t be drawn to that? The Allure of the Illusion In this whirlwind of emotion, the lonely man finds himself swept away in a dream. A week feels like a fleeting eternity, filled with passionate nights and laughter that echoes against the tropical paradise backdrop. He wants to hold on to this experience, clinging to the idea that he might have found something real—a genuine connection. Yet, lurking beneath this romantic haze is a painful truth: he may just be another notch on her belt, another foreigner filling her pocket. While many Thai women navigate these relationships with strategic intent, the heart of the matter is human desire for connection. Is he to be blamed for falling for the artful dance of affection? It’s human nature to seek validation, especially after long, lonely years. The Cultural Divide: An Uncommon Reality One cannot ignore the stark contrast between relationships in the Western world and those commonly observed in places like Thailand. In the West, while “ladies of the night” are available, the lines are generally clear. Most men would not even entertain the thought of pursuing a serious relationship with a sex worker, let alone buy her a house or provide for her long-term. Age differences—particularly involving a fifty-something (or older) man dating a woman in her 30s or younger—are less accepted and often frowned upon. Conversely, in Thailand and other Asian nations, the age gap between partners is not just common; it's often socially accepted and even expected. Younger women pursuing relationships with older foreign men can appear as mutually beneficial arrangements—she offers companionship and affection, while he provides financial support and stability. However, this setup can also make the potential for exploitation much more pronounced. The blurred lines of affection and financial assistance create an environment where love can feel purchasable, making the emotional stakes far higher and the traps much more dangerous. The Art of the Trap It’s no secret that a subset of Thai women may view foreign men as potential cash cows. The stories abound—foreign suitors, like our lonely man, drawn in by dazzling smiles and flirtation that feels like true love. However, alongside these tales of exploitation are countless stories of genuine affection and real connection. The Realities of Monthly Paychecks But it doesn't stop at mere attraction! For some women, the art of the love trap can spiral into a lucrative business model. Picture this: the lonely man, back in his home country, nurturing memories of nights filled with romance and promises of devotion. Unbeknownst to him, he might be on the hook for monthly "support" payments, unknowingly fueling a lifestyle for his Thai lover, who could very well be keeping a string of foreign suitors on the line, each convinced they’re the one and only. Caught between contrasting worlds, our lonely man is entrapped by what feels like genuine affection. The warm smiles and intimate moments create an illusion that is all too easy to accept as true love. For many, the harsh reality is that in this context, affection can feel as fleeting as a tourist visa. Bridging the Cultural Divide As we assess these complex relationships, it’s critical to acknowledge the cultural nuances at play. While many Thai women seek better lives, others are leveraging their allure in a calculated way. The landscape of relationships is not black and white; it’s a colorful tapestry filled with differing motives and ethical dilemmas. Navigating these waters requires vigilance, as the stakes can be surprisingly high for everyone involved. A Light at the End of the Tunnel Yet, amidst all the complexity and potential pitfalls, there remains a silver lining. Not every relationship formed in a bar or amidst the dazzling lights of a nightclub is predicated on deceit or financial gain. Many Thai women genuinely seek love and companionship, cultivating long-term relationships that span decades. These relationships often flourish away from the glare of the nightlife, forged in the shared experiences of daily life, mutual respect, and emotional connection. Whether through shared interests, cultural exchange, or family involvement, numerous couples navigate the challenges of cross-cultural relationships and emerge stronger, proving that love can indeed transcend borders. So, the questions surrounding the nature of relationships between Thai women and foreign men remain polarising and provocative. Are these enchanting interactions genuine partnerships, or are they ultimately cash hunts cloaked in romantic gestures? As we peel back the layers, it becomes clear that while some may play the game for gain, many others embrace the human desire for love and connection. After all, in a world where love can often feel transactional, the longing for connection is undeniably human. And while it’s crucial to stay aware of potential pitfalls, countless stories remind us that genuine love can and does flourish against all odds. As you navigate these murky waters, keep an open heart but a cautious mind—because, in the end, the quest for love can lead to beautiful and unexpected places. Good Luck! Related topic: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348802-how-did-you-do-it/

Meanwhile BACK on topic !

Stabilize the wine first, then add a purée or fresh fruit for the most natural and controlled fruit flavour. Lychee syrup is an option, but use it cautiously to avoid overpowering sweetness. Always taste-test incrementally.

Off topic remarks removed

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(kaw tod jak jai): This means "I apologize from the heart," adding a layer of emotional sincerity to the standard kaw tod.

If you want to reach or balance the western version of sorry, with regret or emotional aspect you move to "Sia jai" imho

Used to be Trendy Building but they relocated as above.

Iherb have a 25% off promo right now too

Not all escapes need to feel distant. Koh Samet, a tiny gem in the Gulf of Thailand, offers a world of contrast just a few hours from Bangkok. Known for its unique blend of serene beaches and understated liveliness, this island has become a haven for those seeking a break without the chaos of overtourism. What sets Koh Samet apart isn’t just its accessibility, but its ability to feel like a world away from the everyday. An Easy Journey to Paradise Reaching Koh Samet is refreshingly straightforward, a rarity in Thailand's archipelago of hidden treasures. From Bangkok, a three- to four-hour drive or bus ride will take you to Ban Phe Pier in Rayong Province. From there, ferries and speedboats shuttle you across sparkling waters, depositing you at various points on the island. The journey itself, with glimpses of fishing boats and coastal life, begins to unravel the pace of city life, offering a smooth transition to island time. A Beach for Every Mood Koh Samet’s shoreline is a mosaic of personalities. Hat Sai Kaew (Diamond Beach): Koh Samet’s beating heart, where powdery white sands meet vibrant activity. Fire shows, beachfront dining, and an infectious energy define this spot. But even here, mornings can be surprisingly quiet, making it ideal for early risers seeking solitude. Ao Phrao: Nestled on the western edge, Ao Phrao’s calm waters and golden sunsets cater to travelers who value tranquility. With fewer visitors and premium resorts, it’s the perfect place to lose track of time. Ao Nuan and Ao Cho: These smaller beaches offer a retreat for those wanting intimacy and a sense of discovery. With fewer amenities and smaller crowds, they’re perfect for unwinding with nature. The Unique Character of Koh Samet What makes Koh Samet special is its balance. Unlike other Thai islands that lean heavily into tourism, Koh Samet has retained its laid-back charm. The island feels alive, but not overwhelming. Fire shows and beach parties coexist with quiet corners where the loudest sound might be a gecko chirping. There’s a hum of energy, but it’s subdued enough to allow for rest and reflection. Beyond the Beaches Koh Samet is more than its coastline: Explore the Green Heart: Much of Koh Samet falls under national park protection, making its interior a haven for biodiversity. While not dense, the island’s greenery is dotted with trails that invite exploration, leading to viewpoints that reveal sweeping vistas of the turquoise sea. Local Encounters: Despite its popularity, Koh Samet maintains a small-island vibe. Interactions with locals feel personal, whether you’re haggling over fresh fruit or chatting with a boat operator about the best snorkeling spots. Adventure on Water: Paddleboarding, windsurfing, and diving open up the marine world, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the island’s aquatic charm. Dining on Koh Samet: A Sensory Experience Meals on Koh Samet are about savoring the moment as much as the food. Think grilled seafood eaten barefoot on the beach, accompanied by the scent of salt and the sound of waves. While Hat Sai Kaew’s restaurants cater to those craving variety—with everything from spicy papaya salads to pizza—smaller beaches offer intimate dining experiences with menus inspired by the sea’s daily catch. Practical Wisdom for Visitors Koh Samet isn’t flashy, and that’s part of its allure. To make the most of your trip: Pack Light: The island’s roads are rustic, and getting around often involves motorbikes or walking. National Park Fees: Entry to the island requires a fee (around 200 THB for foreigners), a small contribution to preserving its beauty. Stay Eco-Conscious: Help Koh Samet maintain its charm by minimizing waste and avoiding single-use plastics. Koh Samet doesn’t demand a long journey or meticulous planning. It thrives on simplicity, offering a retreat where nature takes center stage and time feels irrelevant. Perfect for those looking to recharge without straying too far, this island reminds us that the best escapes are often the closest ones. Whether you come for a weekend or linger longer, Koh Samet promises a slice of paradise that’s just close enough to feel like it’s yours.

LOUD

OP, you may find this topic useful.....

Off topic nonsense removed