Lostpack3t

Really? I think the farang started abusing the motobike taxis after they told him to stop. Do you really think 7 of them would attack a guy over a piece of machinery? Just my guess as to what happened. Anyway its Thailand and this no longer surprises me. Likely all parties had something to drink and aggression when provoked is common. I think there is a definite "stand your ground" mentality by both Thais and tourists here. Better to walk away with a smile and forget whatever issue that bothers you when confronted.

Perhaps why this is news is that Beach Road has been (and continues to be) upgraded however it appears to have no changes to the storm water system. Disappointing however with enough negative publicity city hall may throw more money down the drain to fix the issue next year 5555 ;-)

Sorry to sound negative but all I think is required is a superior attitude. Here in Pattaya, the Tourist Police volunteers (at least those under the age of 40) act as though it is all driven by ego. it is the much older gents that actually contribute any real help.

My med certificate has my blood type. No mention on my wp regarding any details of the med certificate. This was issued in March for bkk

Do it. I have 2 children Australian/Thai aged 5 and 8. I got their thai birth certificates this year and then their thai passports. This allows them to stay in either country without applying for long term visas. In the future as you mentioned, they can own property etc much easier and cheaper than if they only held Australian nationality. Worth the effort.

In regards to learning Thai, at Regents (I didn't ask about this at St Andrews) if your children have dual nationalities, you have the option of enrolling them as Thai or farang. What this means is if you register them as farang, the students learn two languages. Thai is taught (but written Thai is not covered very well due to lack of time). The second language is a choice of French, Mandarin and maybe one other (I forget).

If you register them as Thai, they will not learn the second language, but will learn Thai in a similar method as Thai students in Thai schools. This is by far more of a disciplined class and is taught in typical Thai fashion (ie by rote).

You do have the option of changing your option at any time.

Both my girls go to Regency. I love the school and the program. It's a great school with

great teachers, etc ...

BUT, this must be the greediest bunch of them all. They have been raising their fees

every year by more than 5%. I now pay 150K for primary per quarter, and over 200K

for secondary per quarter. And they way they do it, is to divide the educational year

in to FOUR quarters.

I am seriously considering withdrawing the kids from Regents and finding something else.

For this kind of money I could probably get them boarded abroad ... outrageous !

luudee

*Prices quoted are in Thai Baht

I have just returned from looking at Regents today as I have two children moving here in December. They have 3 terms, not four. Prices are as you mention, ranging from 137,00 to 143,000 per term for primary and 185,300 for secondary. Meals are 8,400 per term. But again, only 3 terms, so Year 1 (137,700/term) is 392,445 per year (includes a 5% discount if payment made up front). This info is taken directly from their admissions booklet and talking to admissions staff. Transportation fees are 17,700 per term (Naklua, North Pattaya) 19,100 (South/Central Pattaya Nern Plab Wan) 25,200 (Jomtien etc). 980+ students in total, about 100 boarders, class size maximum is 22 however every primary class we looked at had between 12-16 students (I counted school bags in the corridors lockers if I couldn't see into the rooms).

Expensive, however I was impressed with the school, teachers and even the students' behaviour.

In comparison, I looked at St Andrews on Wednesday. The school is well laid out, with plenty of open space. Total student numbers are about 420 students from memory. The school only has 2 classes in every primary level. My daughter would be looking at year 4 and these classes are already full at 20+ students per class. Class sizes are 20 with an extra 2 spots available for siblings. Total yearly costs for Year 4 was 397k and year 1 380k. Lunch fees are 17k/year. The library is a possible weakness. Very small selection, especially for secondary years.

Also keep in mind enrolment and application fees. These are a one off payment. Regents is about 95k and St Andrews works out to be about 83k.

Hope this information is helpful.

-Brett

I looked at St Andrews (Green Valley) next to Green Valley Golf Course, about 40min out of central Pattaya. I was happy with what I saw although I have yet to look at any other options just yet. A very quick calculation on yearly costs for my two kids (5 years and 8 years) would work out to be about 400k each, give or take additional costs (transport etc). My daughter has taken to the fact that they offer horse riding as an activity. I know what she will be asking for Xmas this year ><

Anyone have any experience with this school? I spoke to a mother (English) who has her children enrolled and she was happy with the school.

While 1 litre is the limit I have consistently brought in more usually packed in my check in luggage (both wine and spirits). While I wouldn't recommend pushing the limits I'm just letting you know what my experience has been. Ive travelled into Thailand 8 or 9 times in the last 24 months. I usually bring in 4 750ml bottles. I've never been searched at customs. I usually arrive after midnight if that is a factor and no one seems to be searched with 1 or 2 customs staff sitting making a poor attempt at looking attentive. For me I don't have any hesitation in bringing in 3 litres each time.

This might sound harsh but I don't contribute to their income....unless they are selling something, like the Walking Street Thai guy in the wheelchair selling flowers. He has been there for decades. 

 

The other beggars around Pattaya are placed there daily by their controllers. It's a scam. 

So many of the female beggars rent out the baby or young kids that they sit with, just to get a sympathetic donation from those who don't know the real situation. 

It was a few years ago that a lady boy was walking around the bars begging, with a baby in his/her arms. 

 

I also remember a one legged, very untidy Walking Street beggar, who limped around on a crutch and stood in front of drinkers, with a sad look on his face and his hand held out for a donation. He did well.

I saw him during the day, dressed neatly and well groomed, entering his expensive car. From that day on I always gave him a wink every time he was on begging duty standing in front of me with his hand out. 

I can also back this up. Near where I live there is a gent who leaves his house (on Beach rd mind you!) With crutches neatly tucked under his arm off to work he goes to beg. He is doing very well.

I often feel it better to tip the road sweepers early in the morning as they are honest in their work and would be grateful for a tip and acknowledgement of their efforts.

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Join up to Thaifriendly. Regardless of what you may have heard, there are many older thai girls looking for real relationships. Many of them are educated and have reasonable jobs. Just be mindful of any influence from family once you do get involved but that comes with any thai relationship and remember thai girls are motivated into a relationship with a farang for many different reasons, and not all if them for love.

Unless you pay for a premium account with Thaifriendly, chatting options are limited so I recommend having Facebook or using Line on your phone to continue talking with any girl after initial contact.

I didnt read all the replies as they were mostly bs so I apologise if someone has already mentioned this. Best of luck.

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