CharlieH

Absolutely NOT normal. As Crossy showed above, it is nearer to the norm. My builders built a bamboo and straw roof "hong noi" in the grounds to shade under and eat food etc. They also dug a pit as a makeshift loo in one corner.. They travelled back and forth every day; no one was left on the premises after 5 pm.

Troll comment and responses removed

MOVED to Bangkok Forum

Situated along Thailand’s Gulf Coast, the charming towns of Hua Hin, Cha-Am, and Prachuap Khiri Khan offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and laid-back vibes. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly retreat, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, this region promises something special for everyone. Hua Hin: Where Tradition Meets Modernity Hua Hin, Thailand’s original beach resort, boasts a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern luxury. Its royal heritage is evident in the stunning Klai Kangwon Palace, still used by the Thai royal family, and Mrigadayavan Palace, a beautiful teakwood summer palace built during the reign of King Rama VI. The expansive beaches, calm waters, and a variety of water sports make it a favorite for families and water enthusiasts alike. Places of Interest: Hua Hin Beach: Perfect for a morning walk, horse rides, or just lounging with a good book. Cicada Market: A lively weekend market showcasing arts, crafts, and delicious street food. Hua Hin Railway Station: A beautifully preserved colonial-style station, perfect for history buffs and Instagrammers. Vana Nava Water Jungle: A family-friendly water park with thrilling slides and relaxing pools. Mrigadayavan Palace: An exquisite seaside palace surrounded by lush gardens, showcasing Thai architectural elegance. Dining Recommendations: The Moon Terrace: Overlooking the sea, it offers fresh seafood with a romantic ambiance. S&S Indian Restaurant: A surprising gem for curry lovers. Night Markets: Try local favorites like mango sticky rice and grilled seafood. Accommodation: Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa: Central and luxurious with beachfront access. Baan Talay Dao Resort: A boutique option blending traditional Thai design with modern comfort. Cha-Am: A Tranquil Escape Just 25 km north of Hua Hin, Cha-Am is quieter and less commercialized. Its long sandy beach is perfect for those seeking serenity. The area is particularly popular among Thai families and offers a glimpse into local life. Places of Interest: Cha-Am Beach: Ideal for picnics, cycling, and seafood stalls. Santorini Park: A Greek-inspired shopping and leisure complex. Swiss Sheep Farm: Fun for kids, with farm animals and picturesque scenery. Dining Recommendations: Sang Thai Seafood: Known for fresh catches prepared Thai-style. Cha-Am’s Food Stalls: Affordable and authentic, serving dishes like som tam and fried mussels. Accommodation: The Regent Cha-Am Beach Resort: A classic resort with spacious grounds. SO Sofitel Hua Hin: A luxurious retreat offering creative designs and a private beach. Prachuap Khiri Khan: A Hidden Gem South of Hua Hin lies the quaint town of Prachuap Khiri Khan, a haven for those looking to escape the crowds. With its unspoiled beaches, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, it’s a delight for nature lovers and explorers. Places of Interest: Ao Manao: A pristine crescent-shaped beach with calm waters. Khao Chong Krajok (Mirror Mountain): A short but steep climb rewards you with panoramic views and a chance to see playful monkeys. Kui Buri National Park: One of the best places in Thailand to spot wild elephants. Dining Recommendations: Milano Coffee & Guesthouse: Known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty breakfasts. Local Seafront Eateries: Try grilled squid and spicy seafood salads. Accommodation: Baan Grood Arcadia Resort & Spa: A charming resort close to the beach. Sunshine Paradise Resort: A peaceful beachfront option with excellent service. Getting There and Around By Train: The scenic train journey from Bangkok to Hua Hin takes around 4 hours. Some trains continue onward with stops in Cha-Am and Prachuap Khiri Khan By Bus: Regular buses and minivans run from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal, taking 3-4 hours. By Car: A drive along the well-maintained Phetkasem Road offers flexibility and scenic views. Once there, getting around is easy with local songthaews (shared taxis), tuk-tuks, and motorbike rentals. For short distances, bicycles are a pleasant option. Who Should Visit? Families: The calm beaches, water parks, and kid-friendly attractions make it ideal for all ages. Couples: The romantic sunsets and cozy resorts create the perfect getaway. Solo Travelers: Safe, welcoming, and full of opportunities for exploration. Nightlife: A Mix of Chill and Vibrant Hua Hin offers a balanced nightlife scene, from lively beach bars to upscale rooftop lounges like “Brewski”. For a quieter evening, visit Cha-Am’s beachfront restaurants. Prachuap Khiri Khan’s nightlife is laid-back, revolving around local markets and beachfront cafes. Whether you’re lounging on Hua Hin’s beaches, cycling through Cha-Am, or trekking in Prachuap Khiri Khan, this coastal region offers a refreshing escape with diverse experiences. Its seamless blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure ensures a memorable journey. Pack your bags and discover the charm of Thailand’s Gulf Coast! Related Item: Vana Express from Bangkok to Hua-Hin Sponsored

It might help if you said where this is ?

Posts removed, if you want to speculate do it in a more appropriate place......

!00k is way too cheap, I would say around 200k (unseen). Generally, 20-25% down is the norm but sometimes have promotions with 0% down but of course you just pay more of the finance which can be anything upto 7 years (84 payments) also bare in mind ALL the interest is lumped up front, so there is NO incentive to pay it off early.(usually). As said above, get a few other offers before accepting that low-ball offer.

Off topic posts removed

Shoes

Rise

Off topic posts removed.

Existing thread you may find useful........

Finance Forum - MOVED

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

3bb6fbd10e586c44885cfeeb0c9364ca.mp4

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/