Hatyaier

So apparently it is okay to ship body parts as long as you declare them.

How about health insurance if she is a government employee?

I am covered by wife's insurance from her government job even though she has since retired.

I have to pay up front, then she gets reimbursed. (Of course I don't get to see that money.)

Apparently I can get my fingerprints scanned, then no need to pay but haven't got around to it.

Finally a survey I can believe. The bribes at the land office usually are to change to price to avoid taxes. Everyone wins except the government so not many people complain. Same with the police who accept a lower amount for themselves. Of course it is the general public as a whole who lose.

"This is not the first time that law-breaking vendors have protested at excessive extortion by officials. In July 2011 vendors from Kata and Karon complained they were being unfairly targeted for raids, and in 2011 Patong pirate goods vendoes also held a protest at Kathu Police Station after many were raided despite paying bribes to be left alone."

I mean, like, HUH??? This is worse than the pot calling the kettle black.

I disagree. If the kettle did their job there would be no pot.

Amazing the police weren't surprised that you can get that sort of thing at the local market. But it's okay because they promised they would come back.

Well he he can't be too smart. Most cops wait for a safer place to hand out punishment.

Not much space to maneuver to in a rubber tree field, especially if the leaves are still on. Army helicopters daily fly over my place on their way south from the base in Hat Yai, so there must be capable mechanics and pilots. Accidents can happen everywhere.

I don't care one way or another, but my Thai wife refuses to take off her shoes at any shops we visit.

Actually I believe it is quite common here. Often with the husbands knowledge and approval. (but the farang customer is usually unaware)

All of that in one week!

Nice job RTP !

Street value of 2,000 Bt per pistol is not very reassuring for one's safety.

This news article is a great example of why I am quite happy to be moving home to the US.

Short of living in a housing project in LA or Chicago, it is quite unlikely to see that amount of illegal weapons on the street anywhere.

Good luck to all of you that call this peaceful Nation home.

Home to USA where guns are legal, including AK-47's, easily available to school children. At least they are illegal in Thailand.

Thai food is bland is Canada but I love thousands of varieties I've eaten in Thailand.

Bartering. I now only pay 450% more than a local.

Police General Adul said that problems would be voiced in today’s meeting and provincial governors would be needed to get involved and take actions whether it be amending the law or enforcing strict regulations.

"Amending the law" Is there no laws against this practice?

"Enforcing strict regulations" What a novel idea!

“Jet-skis should be ridden between 300 and 800 metres from the shore – away from high waves closer to the shore,” said Mr Phuriphat.

Doesn't that mean that jet skis should not be on the beach?

Thai police interrogators are extremely efficient at their jobs I've noticed.

Easier for him to blend in at Malaysia but not impossible in Thailand.

I have to admit the Thai police are very, very good at getting people to confess to crimes, even when there is very little evidence.

Although in this case I think they have it right.

Glad to hear him admit it. I want to be optimistic and admitting it is a start. Corruption is so rampant in government positions that to even slow it down would be a gigantic task.

Loved the mandolin and lyrics!

you are not safe anywhere

incorrect actually, you are very safe in thailand unless your an expat criminal lier a fraudster blackmailer cheat thief extortioninist money launderer boiler room operative real estate conman loan shark standover merchant paediphile murderer or run businesses here that are not kosha and offer services to defraud your country man. the police did a great job in taking down the russian and he was the author of his own demise. the pattaya police are professional courteous and always try to assist tourists and expats alike.

Or unless you are a pretty girl in a bikini.

This thread has turned into Thai bashing...

I have bought roses from children...I will never miss a few baht...some destitute family may have food on the table because of their child selling roses...

So you support child labor and seem to be proud of it!

Slightly off topic but when my wife went for her license she showed her govt. I.D. and was handed her license valid for life. No tests required. Incredibly she became a good driver with no accidents to date unlike some others I have noticed.

"Thailand is desperate to avoid further damage to the nation's lucrative tourism industry"

Says it all really.

But if you are beautiful and wear a bikini at the beach on our islands don't come. It's not safe.

Ko Lipe Island was my favorite place until Lonely Planet told everyone some 10 years ago. For that reason I won't say my top 3, but I will recommend Koh Sok National Park.

I want one. Lots of ants around here biting me all the time.