CharlieH

Anyone thats managed to fall on a "nice little earner" is unlikely to say what it is, anymore than a prospector would tell you where his goldmine is located.😁 Then you have the "work permit" crew ! anyone thats been here any length of time knows that there is the official way and what actually happens. One of the beauties of Thailand (IMHO) is the fact you can do pretty much what you like within reason and dont step on any toes or get undue publicity.

There is no war or violence in Kawthaung, the southernmost tip of Myanmar. Here, you’ll be greeted by friendly, inquisitive locals before heading to the serene paradise of Boulder Island. The Boulder Bay Eco Resort is situated on Boulder Island in Myanmar's Mergui Archipelago, a chain of over 800 islands in the Andaman Sea. Located 85 kilometres west of mainland Myanmar and Thailand, Boulder Island stands out for its limestone and granite formations, white sand beaches, tropical jungles, and undisturbed coral reefs and marine life. As the island's sole accommodation, the eco-resort offers an exclusive escape into one of Southeast Asia's last unspoiled tropical paradises, perfect for those seeking a low-key island experience away from mass tourism. Accommodation & Facilities The resort features traditional Burmese-style bungalows, with beachfront and tree-bundled location options. These accommodations include one large suite bungalow and several standard and superior bungalows. At the heart of the resort lies a spacious thatched-roof community centre that serves as the main hub, housing the dining area, bar, and lounge. Guests can enjoy their meals while taking in panoramic views of the sea. Don’t forget the beachside yoga centre, providing a laid-back space for meditation and gatherings, perfectly complementing the natural surroundings. Activities & Experiences Guests at Boulder island can immerse themselves in a handful of natural experiences. The pristine coral reefs encapsulating the island offer exceptional snorkelling and diving opportunities with visibility reaching up to 30 metres. Certified dive instructors lead underwater expeditions to various sites around the island. Divers can expect to discover a wide spectrum of aquamarine life, with the resident clownfish, manta rays, and seahorses to name a few. The island's eight unique beaches are perfect for watersports enthusiasts TO enjoy kayaking along the coastline, while paddleboarding is available in designated areas to protect the coral reefs. All of the above activities are available at the Research and Watersport Centre.As night falls, the perfect opportunity for stargazing arises, offering rich-starred skies rarely seen anywhere else. The resort's restaurant serves three meals daily, featuring a mix of Burmese, Thai, and Western cuisines, with special consideration given to dietary restrictions when notified in advance. For guests seeking to explore the broader archipelago, the resort operates the MV Sea Gipsy, a custom-designed Burmese boat offering multi-day cruises or sea safaris around the islands of the Mergui Archipelago. The vessel, decorated with open-air gazebo areas and an expansive sundeck, is perfect for island-hopping adventures along picturesque beaches. More information at islandsafarimergui.com. The Mergui Archipelago is home to Burmese fishermen and the Moken (Sea Gypsies), known for their traditional sea-dwelling lifestyle. While there are no Moken villages on Boulder Island, guests can visit their communities during MV Sea Gipsy cruises. Visitors should respect local customs and avoid political discussions. Getting There The journey begins at Kawthaung, Myanmar's southernmost town. The recommended route is via Ranong, Thailand, accessible by: ● Flight from Bangkok ● Overnight VIP bus from Bangkok's Southern Terminal (about 700 baht, departs 7pm) ● Transport from southern locations like Phuket The resort provides complimentary transfers from Ranong and assists with immigration procedures. From Kawthaung, the resort's boat departs at about 10 AM for a 5.5-hour scenic journey to Boulder Island, including refreshments. Alternatively, a 2-hour speedboat transfer is available for an additional fee but availability may be sporadic. For early arrivals, the Honey Bear Hotel near Kawthaung Pier is recommended. Independent travellers can reach Kawthaung via a longtail boat (300 baht, 20 minutes) from Thailand. Visas & Essential Information The resort operates from early October to late April, with January to March offering the most favourable weather conditions. During these months, visitors can expect clear skies and calm seas. The facility closes during the monsoon season from late May to mid-October when heavy rainfall and rough seas make travel difficult. Most nationalities require a Myanmar visa, which can easily be obtained through the eVisa system. The process typically takes 2 to 4 working days and costs approximately US$50. Alternative options include obtaining a visa at local Myanmar embassies or consulates which generally costs around 1,600 baht, taking up to 3 working days. Your stay includes accommodation, three daily meals, activities, and plenty of entertainment options from the community centre. While the resort strives to provide modern amenities, the satellite internet connection may occasionally be weak, offering guests an opportunity to disconnect from the digital world. Note that scuba diving costs extra. Boulder Island is indeed safe, with no dangerous wildlife - even the resident monitor lizards and pythons pose no threat. While Myanmar has experienced political unrest since 2021, the southern region including Boulder Island remains peaceful. The island has no medical facilities, but resort staff trained in first aid can assist with emergencies. Guests should bring necessary medications and a first aid kit. Environmental Commitment & Wildlife Boulder Bay Eco Resort’s commitment to conservation efforts includes regular beach cleanups, plastic reduction initiatives, and the use of biodegradable products, which guests are encouraged to participate in. Powered by solar power and constructed with sustainability in mind, the resort aims to minimise its environmental impacts. The island's ecosystem supports a diverse array of wildlife. In the surrounding waters, visitors might encounter black-tip reef sharks, sea otters, and numerous tropical fish species. As mentioned, the island is also home to multiple bird species, including rare and endangered species such as plain-pouched hornbills. The coral reefs remain pristine due to minimal tourism impact, hosting a rich variety of marine life including parrotfish, pipefish, butterflyfish, and various species of rays. The island's ecosystem is the lifeblood of these wildlife species, and Boulder Bay Eco Resort continues its eco-mission to ensure their livelihoods by minimising their footprint upon their habitats. Practical Information Remember to pack eco-friendly essentials including reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, first-aid kit, reusable water bottle, medications, and swimwear. Rubber swim shoes are recommended for protection from sharp objects while preserving fragile corals. Bring comfortable walking shoes and some reading material for leisure. The resort package includes meals and basic activities, with extra charges for scuba diving. US dollars and Thai baht are accepted, but credit cards rarely do not work due to sanctions. Bank transfers can be arranged. Bring cash for drinks, diving, and staff tips as there are no ATMs on the island. While the resort is well-equipped to handle most guest needs, visitors should bring any specific medications or personal items they might require, as there are no shops on the island. More information: ● For the resort, visit boulderasia.com ● For the multi-day boat cruises with a short stay on Boulder Island visit islandsafarimergui.com ● For enquiries contact [email protected] via email or our WhatsApp at (+66) 81 958 3310

Yes it will be FREE to post

Much better than most people, for sure.

People may appear to complain or find fault more often due to accumulated life experiences, a tendency to resist change, or frustration with unmet expectations. It can also stem from a desire to share wisdom or maintain control in a world that feels increasingly unfamiliar as they age.

Thought thats what question one covered.

Probabluy one of the MOST tested and talked about supplements out there. Lots of myths too. Personally, I think it works well, I take it after resistance training and have done so for a long time. It draws water into the muscles, hence the more definition. This in turn helps with muscle recovery, etc. The more recent claims on brain health, especially as you age "Some studies suggest that creatine may have neuroprotective effects, potentially reducing oxidative stress and supporting cellular repair mechanisms, which can be beneficial in conditions like neurodegenerative diseases." (chatgpt)

PLEASE NOTE THE BIG RED BANNER ON TOP OF YOUR SCREEN

8cac23315b80d90f6e20737401a8223b.mp4

Every individual has the inherent right to hold and express their beliefs, regardless of how unconventional or "crackpot" others might perceive them to be. The diversity of thought enriches our discourse, offering unique perspectives that challenge the status quo. While some may disagree or ridicule, it is essential to respect each person's right to share their views, as this openness fosters a more vibrant and tolerant society. Ultimately, the expression of differing opinions is a cornerstone of free thought and democracy. That is the reason this forum was created; it was clear there was a need and as long as respect for others thoughts and beliefs remains, moderation here will be minimal. If a persons view is "hes a crackpot" great ! ignore it and scroll on by.

The history of humanity is intricately woven with the threads of ancient civilisations, each contributing unique perspectives on culture, technology, and spirituality. As societies transitioned from nomadic hunter-gatherers to complex agrarian communities around 5,000 years ago, the foundations for modern civilisation were laid in Mesopotamia, Egypt, the Indus Valley, and beyond. Among the most intriguing facets of these ancient cultures is the mythology surrounding the Anunnaki, a group of deities that originated in Sumerian belief systems. Often described as the offspring of the sky god Anu, the Anunnaki played pivotal roles in creation myths, governance, and agricultural prosperity. Their narratives echo throughout various Mesopotamian texts, leaving behind a legacy that continues to spark interest in the relationships between gods and humanity. In recent years, the Anunnaki have also become central figures in modern interpretations that suggest they might represent extraterrestrial visitors to Earth. This idea gained traction through the works of authors like Zecharia Sitchin, who postulated that these beings came to Earth for resources and influenced human development. Such theories raise provocative questions about the ancient astronaut hypothesis, where many believe that extraterrestrial beings were involved in shaping early human civilisations. The discussion around lost civilisations and potential connections to an advanced prehistoric society explores the possibility that our understanding of human history is incomplete. The decline of great empires, such as the Indus Valley Civilisation or the Minoans, challenges us to consider what we may have forgotten or failed to record. These gaps inspire speculation about the effects of climate change, warfare, and societal shifts on the course of history. While legends and myths provide fascinating narratives, they often intertwine with truths about human experiences. Stories of great floods, divine interventions, and the creation of humanity may reflect real events, collective memories shattered through time. The overlap between myth and reality raises profound questions about the essence of our past. As archaeology and genetics continue to uncover compelling evidence about early human societies and migrations, new insights prompt us to reconsider longstanding beliefs. What if our origins are far more complex than we understand? In light of these thoughts, we invite you to ponder: - Were advanced civilisations lost to time? - Do the Anunnaki symbolise ancient encounters with extraterrestrial beings, or are they reflections of human aspirations and fears? - How can recent archaeological discoveries and genetic research refine our understanding of human history? - What lessons from lost civilisations can guide us ? The quest to unravel the mysteries of our past is ongoing, inviting curiosity and debate.

Moving to Thailand as an expat comes with exciting opportunities, but it also means adapting to new healthcare challenges. From tropical diseases to everyday health needs, having reliable health insurance can make all the difference. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common health issues covered by expat insurance and why they’re worth considering. 1. Routine check-ups Preventive care, like annual physicals and vaccinations, helps you stay ahead of potential health problems. Thailand’s tropical climate adds risks like dengue fever, making regular screenings even more important. Most expat plans include these essential services. 2. Emergencies Accidents and sudden illnesses can lead to expensive hospital visits, especially in private facilities like Bumrungrad International in Bangkok. Insurance covers ambulance rides and emergency care, sparing you from sky-high bills. 3. Hospital stays Whether for surgery or severe illnesses, hospitalisation in Thailand can be costly, with private rooms priced between 3,000 and 10,000 baht per night. Insurance plans cover inpatient care, including procedures and post-op recovery. 4. Chronic illnesses Managing conditions like diabetes or asthma often involves specialist visits, lab work, and medication. Expat insurance typically covers these costs, ensuring ongoing care without financial strain. 5. Pregnancy and maternity care Planning to grow your family? Maternity insurance handles prenatal check-ups, ultrasounds, and delivery costs, which can range from 30,000 to 100,000 baht. Some plans even cover newborn care. Don’t miss out: 10% off for life! Lock in a 10% discount on your expat plan for the lifetime of your policy. T&Cs apply* Act fast, this limited-time offer ends this December! 6. Dental and vision care Basic health insurance often includes routine dental cleanings and treatments, plus eye exams and glasses. These benefits are handy for keeping up with dental health and clear vision. 7. Support for mental health Adapting to life in a new country can bring emotional stress. Modern insurance plans now cover therapy, counselling, and psychiatric consultations, making mental health support more accessible. 8. Prescription drug coverage Medication for chronic or acute illnesses can be pricey in Thailand, especially imported drugs. Insurance typically helps cover these costs, ensuring you get the treatment you need. 9. Specialist consultations Sometimes, you need a specialist for complex health concerns. Insurance plans often include access to top-tier specialists in fields like cardiology or dermatology at Thailand’s private hospitals. Stay covered with Cigna Cigna’s expat health insurance plans provide extensive coverage, from routine care to emergency hospitalisation. Benefits include: ● Comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care for surgeries, specialist visits, and more. ● Maternity coverage, including prenatal and postnatal care. ● Dental and vision benefits for routine and corrective treatments. ● Mental health support through therapy and counselling. ● Access to leading hospitals like Bumrungrad and Bangkok Hospital. Don’t miss out: 10% off for life! Lock in a 10% discount on your expat plan for the lifetime of your policy. T&Cs apply* With Cigna, you’ll have a global network of healthcare providers and flexible plans to suit your needs. Having a reliable insurance partner ensures you can enjoy your time in Thailand without worrying about unexpected medical costs. *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

To support proper documentation, but not as a "stand alone" (AFAIK)

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who has held office since 2021, has lost a crucial vote of confidence in parliament, setting the stage for early elections on February 23. Scholz initiated Monday's vote, fully aware he was likely to lose. His aim was to trigger early elections, believing it to be the best opportunity to rejuvenate his party's faltering political standing. The vote follows the collapse of Scholz’s three-party coalition two months ago, which left him leading a fragile minority government. Speaking ahead of the vote, Scholz framed the upcoming elections as a chance for Germans to "determine the political direction of our country," signaling what is expected to be a contentious campaign season. The loss of the no-confidence vote was a calculated move by Scholz, as it allows elections to be held in February, seven months earlier than the originally planned date in September. Of the 717 MPs who voted, 207 supported Scholz, while 394 opposed him, and 116 abstained. With his coalition disbanded since November, Scholz has depended on opposition support to pass legislation, leaving his administration effectively paralyzed. Faced with a stagnating economy and mounting global challenges, Scholz concluded that waiting until September 2025 for the next scheduled election would appear irresponsible to voters. Polls currently show Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) trailing far behind the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), led by Friedrich Merz, who is poised to form the next government. A Divisive Campaign Ahead During the debate preceding the vote, Scholz called for significant investment in defense and infrastructure, while Merz criticized his proposals, warning of increased debt and pledging tax cuts instead. German tabloid Bild described Scholz’s maneuver as a "kamikaze" strategy. However, in Germany’s political system, this is one of the few ways a government can dissolve parliament to trigger an early election. Post-war constitutional safeguards were designed to prevent the instability seen during the Weimar Republic. This confidence vote marks the sixth time a German chancellor has used this mechanism to resolve political gridlock, with former chancellor Gerhard Schröder employing it twice. Deepening Political Fragmentation The immediate cause of the coalition’s collapse stemmed from disputes over fiscal policy. Scholz and his Green allies sought to relax Germany's strict debt rules to fund aid for Ukraine and key infrastructure projects. However, Finance Minister Christian Lindner, leader of the pro-business Free Democratic Party (FDP), rejected these plans, prioritizing debt reduction. Lindner’s dismissal led to the coalition's downfall, ending months of internal discord. While the breakup may have brought temporary relief to Berlin’s political elite, it underscores a deeper, more troubling issue. Germany’s political landscape has grown increasingly fragmented, with more parties occupying the Bundestag and newer, more radical forces gaining traction. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which first entered parliament in 2017 with 12.6% of the vote, saw its share dip to 10.4% in 2021. However, it is now polling at nearly 20%, reflecting a significant shift in voter sentiment and posing fresh challenges for the country’s democratic stability. As reported by BBC

Im sorry I cant answer that part. Only that generally 2T oil is added to the petrol in 2 stroke engines (higher pitched noise and much higher revving)4T is the engine oil to add in the engine oil compartment you pointed to in the picture. (Same as most lawnmowers)

Look like a 4 stroke so NO dont add to the fuel. Just add the 4T to the engine oil compartment. thats what the 4T and 2T signifies, 2 or 4 stroke engines

Please dont post entire documents- brief description and link to it. Thanks

Guys, post you topics in the forum, this is just the welcome topic

Dive into the world of alternative ideas and unconventional thinking! Off the Beaten Track is a space for open discussions on topics that stray from the mainstream—whether they’re alternative perspectives, unexplored theories, or even the occasional conspiracy. Here, you’re free to share your thoughts, ideas, and questions without the need to conform to widely accepted narratives. Supporting links to claims are welcome but not required. It’s entirely up to each individual to explore, verify, or embrace the ideas presented. This is a forum for curiosity, critical thinking, and respectful dialogue. So, whether you're questioning the official story, offering a new take, or just exploring the "what ifs," you’ve found the right place. Step off the beaten track, and let the conversations begin! Fortum rules apply of course, but most importantly be respectful to others opinions and views.

Most people talk of Facebook marketplace, and maybe Baht & sold. Would you like to be able buy & sell items on Asean Now ? What concerns would you have about using such a marketplace ?

No longer permitted. Subscribers only.

Are you referring to notifications ? Please check your account settings.

bfda0e00971f63dd482e7c723fffac58.mp4

Let's keep things realistic and achievable shall we.

Motorcycle forum MOVED