richard_smith237

It wasn't a card payment. The Payment was made via Transfer - which in many cases in Thailand involves scanning a QR code, then the customer inputting the amount.. Additionally - when a QR payment is made, the complete 'account details' are not kept in the payment receipt, so to refund, they may have had to jump through more hoops at a bank... Appealing so social medial is good PR and it appears it worked quickly.

Phones can be easily attached to the bike (i.e. QuadLock)... as most cyclists do these days and its very unlikely they'll cycle anywhere without their phone... Its hardly adding a lot of weight. ... Backup bank-notes can be kept in the phone case if someone wants.... You may have provided an example of 'different generations' attitudes towards phones. Younger people travel everywhere with their phones which are now, 'multi-use' tools, payment, comms, mapping, data (fitness) recoding etc (think Strava)... listening to music etc

Maybe it was some fancy gourmet <deleted>? The cost of the espresso machine's alone in some of these shops is astronomical... And if they are using decent beans.. then 100 baht for a coffee doesn't seem excessive at all... I think some guys 'read coffee' and think 3in1 or Instant, when in reality these days there are a lot of folk who can tell the difference between a cheap and ropey poor quality robusta and a high quality arabica. Also - have you seen the bikes some of these folk are riding around on - Go to the Skylane in Bangkok and look for a bike worth less than 100,000 baht !!!

The origins of TIP being to 'To Insure Promptness' is a social myth / folk etymology - its a retrofitted explanation that sounds neat but doesn't hold up historically. In reality, the word tip was been used in the 18th century to mean giving a small amount of money. It comes from thieves and beggars jargon where TIP meant "to give" or "to hand over" - as in "tip me a coin"... and over time, the usage evolved into the modern noun for a gratuity.

Again... the incompetence and negligence of this project continues.... That said: In many other nations, the road would be closed and vehicles would not be permitted to pass underneath anything... causing mass road-chaos and terrible traffic for months-years. But... that does not excuse the ineptitude of supervisory management to ensure that these 'events' cannot happen - this is nothing other than human error mostly likely borne of sheer laziness. Everyone I have spoken to about this road has reservations about driving along it !!!....

Because when out cycling you carry as little as possible. Mobile phone is needed for mapping, so might as well use it as your wallet. Would you really want me to pay you with a wet sweaty 100bht note I pulled out of my cycling shorts? Exactly that... These days my wallet is tiny and sticks to the back of my phone. It contains, ID & Credit Card... and 1000 baht in 'emergency cash'... no real need to carry a wallet anymore. (Driving license stays in the car / Bike license stays with the bike). As for the question: "Why not just carry the old stuff" - thats part of a long running debate on this forum concerning cash-vs-cashless... with every positive, there is also a negative with either option... This is an example of where cash-less goes wrong... Carrying 10,000 baht around and loosing your wallet would be an example of 'carrying cash' going wrong - each have their pro's and cons.

Yes and no.. With 'some' transactions you scan a 'Static' QR Code - then input the amount (usually smaller vendors, street stalls, and shops that want to reuse the same QR code.etc) With 'other' transactions you Scan a 'Dynamic' QR Code - and the amount is automatic (usually used in supermarkets, chain stores, or e-commerce platforms etc)

why would someone put so much effort to make it up? a grudge against the ministry of education? I don't believe he made it up... he may have seen a few kids get 'smacked' at a school he's worked at years ago... and then projected of load of rubbish about 'richest and most affluent schools etc' from there and has since trapped himself doubling down on his BS. He's certainly going to a lot of effort not to name the school and instead messaging me to "meet up face to face for an a mysterious off-camera tête-à-tête" because he feels abused....

I think that’s why the OP made a point of ‘setting the scene’ - mentioning the destination and guessing the other passenger’s nationality. It wasn’t just about what happened, but about painting a broader picture. In the US, there does seem to be a more conservative approach when it comes to this sort of thing - or maybe it’s just that airline staff feel more empowered and comfortable stepping in when someone’s dressed in a way that’s seen as inappropriate, especially if there’s a political message on the clothing. Someone else mentioned the gender angle - and I agree. You see loads of women in tank tops on flights and no one bats an eye. They’re not usually sweaty or smelly, and in reality, a tank top on a woman is often viewed the same as a t-shirt on a man. I see all sorts on planes - men in shorts and t-shirts, women in tank tops and summer gear - and none of it bothers me or anyone else.... ... But a man in a tank top? It feels like a step too far. Hard to put into words why exactly, but it just comes off as a bit... off. Maybe it’s the sweat factor, or just how exposed it looks in a cramped, shared space like a plane.

3x PM's so far with thinly veiled threats - thats the mentality of someone who's 'made a claim' they are refusing to back up... I will still stand by my comments that connected, wealthy, affluent Thai's will not sit back while buckets are kicked out of their children by teachers, nether will they 'give the school their blessing' to do so.... As news reports suggest: These issues are restricted to the poorer and more underprivileged schools where children's parents lack the socio-economic power to challenge or resist such actions. Barent claims that the 'richest, most affluent schools in the country kick buckets out of kids and with the parent's blessing in advance' are able to brush this news under the carpet which is why we don't hear of such news from these "Top Thai Private Schools"... I think his comments may have been correct 20+ years ago - but his comments are based in the past - Social Media moves way too fast for these things to be brushed aside.

Depends how sweaty she is.... But, you raise a valid point.. to answer your question - dress appropriately, its not difficult. There are reports of females being denied boarding for dressing as you describe. USA (Delta, 2024) – DJ Lisa Archbold was temporarily removed from a flight for wearing a loose T-shirt without a bra. She was allowed back on after putting on a jacket. Turkey–USA (American Airlines, 2021) – Bodybuilder Deniz Saypinar was told her shorts and crop top were inappropriate. Staff said her outfit offended other passengers. Australia (Jetstar, 2021) – Isabelle Eleanore wore a bikini top and was told to cover up with a high-vis vest. She called the incident embarrassing and sexist. UK–Spain (Thomas Cook, 2019) – Emily O’Connor was nearly removed for wearing a crop top and high-waisted trousers. Crew claimed her outfit was offensive to others. South Africa (FlySafair, 2022) – A young woman in short denim shorts was warned her outfit violated airline dress codes. She complied under protest. Thailand (Thai Airways, 2018) – A female traveller wearing a halter top was quietly asked to change before boarding. The airline cited cultural norms and modesty. Mexico (Volaris, 2020) – A woman in a tight crop top and leggings was told her outfit was too provocative. The incident sparked debate on social media. France (Air France, 2019) – A teenage girl was denied boarding for a low-cut top. Staff said it was not in line with the airline’s family-friendly standards. UAE (Emirates, 2017) – A tourist wearing shorts and a sleeveless top was asked to change at the gate. Emirates cited respect for local customs. Nigeria (Arik Air, 2016) – A woman in leggings and a fitted shirt was blocked from boarding. Staff claimed her outfit was indecent for public travel.

and this is one strong argument for banning it completely. teachers can go way too far and abuse this power. Corporal punishment is officially prohibited in Thai schools under the Ministry of Education Regulation on Student Punishment, enacted in 2005. Of course - still happens - especially among underprivileged children whose parents lack the socio-economic power to challenge or resist it and the directors of the schools attempt to 'brush the issues under the carpet' until social media gets hold of the issue. ... And according to one poster [Some of the richest, most affluent schools in the country kick buckets out of kids and with the parent's blessing in advance.].... first hand experience apparently... of a very well known 'Top Private Thai School'... ..... This Poster has managed to PM me, but still not with the name of the school - but 'wants to meet up' because I called out his comments that this happens to children of wealthy and connected parents as BS and he think's I've abused him !!!! .... Hardly quality teacher material if he can't even hold his patience on an anonymous web-forum and has to resort to thinly veiled threats....

I completely agree. In areas with heavy tourist traffic – or more accurately, a high volume of short-term tourist rentals – the police often take advantage of the situation, targeting easy pickings and fleecing tourists. Of course, some will argue that it’s the tourists’ own fault for not having the proper licences or for failing to wear helmets, and technically, they’re right. But that entirely misses the broader point. The real issue lies in the inconsistency of enforcement. The laws themselves are perfectly adequate, but they’re applied sporadically, often not at all. When action is taken, it’s typically for show – a brief, performative crackdown aimed at generating a media headline rather than bringing about lasting change. For any meaningful improvement, enforcement needs to be national, consistent, and year-round. Unfortunately, that seems like far too much effort for a system led by people who simply don’t take these issues seriously enough.

"Goa is not India" – or so the Goans will often say. There's a strong local sentiment that sets them apart from the rest of the country, and it’s not uncommon to hear Goans speak critically, even mockingly, of the behaviour of Indian tourists who visit their state. That said, I’ve personally found Goans to be, for lack of a better term, a step above – more easy-going, open-minded, and socially attuned – than the average Indian from elsewhere. Whether that’s a fair comparison or not is up for debate, but the cultural difference is certainly noticeable.

I believe that could be said of any nationality when encountered in large groups. What you're highlighting, I think, is less about racism and could more accurately be described as 'groupism' and the tendency to judge individuals based on perceived traits of the collective... When we observe a large group of any nationality, it's often the worst-behaved, the loudest, or the most obnoxious who capture our attention. Sadly, this leads to sweeping generalisations, where an entire group is unfairly judged by the actions of a few - we see it with negative comments on here about Russians, Israeli's, Brits, Chinese, Aussies, Americans etc etc... On a personal level, however, I've found Indians among the most easily likeable people I've met. Working alongside Indian colleagues has added another dimension to my view. At peer level, I've found them exceptional – intelligent, collaborative, and driven. But within hierarchies, there's a noticeable harshness towards those perceived as lower on the professional or social ladder, particularly when caste considerations come into play. Working for Indian-led teams can be challenging; in one case, I had to walk away from a project due to dangerously unrealistic expectations and pace, which created serious safety concerns. You mentioned you wouldn't go to a restaurant that was full of Indians - I think thats fair enough, I'd avoid a restaurant that was obviously fully of any single nationality - primarily because its more likely to just be a lot louder and chaotic more than anything else... I like places most when there is a large mix...

I'm genuinely interested... As if this place is as 'good as he says it is' then I have close friends who's children attend... ... but I just can't see it. I think he (barnet) may be referring to Sarasas Witaed Ratchaphruek School where in 2020 a teacher was filmed hitting a child and placing a bag over their head... But, thats a mid-tier Thai (and bilingual) school, hardly anything close to 'affluent' etc.. . The information presented is accurate for pre-2000's.... I know lots of people who went to the high end Government Schools such as Triam etc... they are not sending their children to the same schools - every single Wealthy, Affluent, Connected etc yadda yadda yadda Thai person I know is getting their kids into the International Schools... ... There maybe some overlap of those who send their kids to Ruamrudee and St Gabriel's and such schools.... but those parents are less informed... those schools are far from 'high end' these days... (from both the perspective of quality and reputation)...

Mostly out of date - With the exception of Dentistry, Medicine, Music... However, with those pursuing dentistry and medicine, its now very common to study overseas and then complete the 1 year access courses (MCQ, OSCE).... Music - usually, students may aim to switch to Mahidol. The vast Majority if Thai's who can afford it (you used the term affluent) send their kids to overseas universities... The networking now takes on 'alternative means'... i.e. Secondary education ages... and Uni's popularised by Thai students... (i.e. Oxbridge, LSE, UCL, & Ivy Leagues: Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia...Stanford & MIT, University of California, Berkeley / UCLA / USC... And also Melbourne to some extent)... ... but Primarily: LSE, Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Stanford, USC.... Your information is just out of date, thats all - you may now be out of a loop that has since evolved significantly over the past 20 years...

He could name the area... i.e. A well known School near Soi 6 Ramhamhaeng... But.. he's put his neck on the line by claiming Wealthy Thai's are knowingly accepting that teachers are kicking buckets out of their kids as a matter of school policy... He's claimed this happens in the Most Affluent Schools in Thailand (but not in Interntionationl Schools), Military Schools are omitted as this is not part of the discussion.. then he can be quoted as stating below: not a Government School, and then stating a Thai Schools....

Chill out on the snowflakery... I thought it was all affluent schools... So its one and you wont name it or PM it. Name one - you've been asked my multiple people - you are making general claims... now its high end Thai schools where the kids are getting the 'bucket kicked out of them by the teachers as a matter of policy and with full knowledge of the parents'... OK - got it... (more BS). Name it... (PM)... If you mean Ruamrudee School (its an international school) that used to be one of the best and most famous and is now out of favour for lack of teaching standards. PM = Private Message... how hard is it to simply back up your claims... PM me this 'highlighy affluent school where the wealthiest Thai's send their children with the knowledge they'll be beaten by the teachers as a matter of policy"... Its a small network... of course, I don't know where they 'all go'... I know where 'most go'... its the international schools I named in Bangkok or overseas boarding schools. Name the school... PM me. You and I might have a very different idea of 'high end'... The PM doesn't send her kids to the school you worked at, neither do the owners of the major Mall Groups etc... Housing estate companies and major businesses players, known businesses.... because they send their kids to Harrow, Patana, Shrewbury, NIST, ISB, Prep... or overseas boarding. You don't even have the 'gravitas' (laughable) to back up your comments with a simple PM - sorry, private message (not sure you know what PM means after so many requests). A narrowed down statement... Which is it now... Thai Government Schools or is it 'not' a government school (as higlighted in bold above - you are contradicting yourself now). This is easily ironed out by naming the school... or, if you don't wish to name the school, PM it, or just name a location.

What did the man's skin color have to do with his (lack of suitable) attire? Nothing...... neither would his age, gender, height etc... .... But if the Op had written an "Old, hairy, lanky Western man" would you have still pee'd your pants a little at the opportunity to cry moral outrage and racism from atop your rickety soapbox?..... Or is outrage only fashionable when the target ticks your approved victim boxes? The OP used a descriptor. A word. To set a scene. That’s it. But of course, nuance isn’t exactly the strong suit of the perpetually offended. Now... you can mince back whatever exhausting virtue-signalling hobby you lot are peddling this week – bra-burning, book-banning, or rewriting history with crayons. The rest of us will be over here, in the real world, not tripping over ourselves to be offended by adjectives.

Imagine everyone doing that thought !!!... ... After a bad sports injury, I was on crutches but had airport wheel chair assistance..... Hated it. With a badly injured leg... and clueless crowds, drifting around like lobotomised sheep I was a dash 'edgy'... gripping my crutches a jousting lance, in case anyone wandered too close. Thankfully, I never had to strike – but I was ready.... But, it didn't really make anything other than 'check-in' any faster... Anyway - 1.5 hrs is more than enough time - nothing to worry about. Its up to the Airline to ensure you 'can' transit in time, and their responsibility if you can't... The security checks at the Middle East Airports (Dubai / Abu Dhabi / Doha) are lightening quick compared to the UK a few years back... and now that many airports are upgrading their scanning systems, there is no need to take anything out of our carry on baggage which means the checks are much much quicker. ... The UK is now 10x better than it was two years ago now that it has the better CT scanners at many of its airports.

Emirates do the same... (or used to)... Its not an individual Airline Policy to sell more drinks... These are Enhanced / Secondary Security checks are mandated by the Australian Government to bolster aviation security for all flights entering Australia (as an example) - checks are concentrated on Liquid and Electronics screening - they'll exist at entry to the 'gate' on flights from specific points of origin.

No... Your response wasn't that... Your response was this: I call BS on that statement... The richest, most affluent schools in the country... and then you exclude 'actual rich and affluent schools' (Int'l schools) and restrict to Thai Government schools... OK, we'll go with that. But, the Affluent, Wealthy and Powerful Thai's 'generally' do not send their Kids to Thai schools - they send them overseas or to International Schools, perhaps very small minority may send their kids to a Thai Government School... but even the best Schools in Thailand such as Triam Udom Suksa no longer have the the 'draw' they once had, far from it... ...Think of any well known, local and major business, famous family names in thailand, CP Group etc, Central Group, Mall Group etc.. Politicians and the Prime-minister's daughter - their kids are at International Schools or Boarding overseas.... (*these are the families who would previously send their kids to Triam Udom Suksa or Mahidol Wittayanusorn... but times have very much changed). I'm not denying physical punishment occurs in 'Thai Government Schools throughout thailand - I am calling BS on your statement that it occurs in the most affluent schools as a policy accepted by Wealthy, Affluent and Powerful families, ... Wealthy, Powerful, Affluent families will not tolerate their children 'having buckets kicked out of them' by any teacher.... in any school... particularly as a matter of policy... (which is also against the law). No, you haven't stated it... you are refusing to state it... PM me the school - we may find that its not quite as 'affluent' as you are making out and the students who 'have buckets kicked out of them' by teachers are not from Wealthy, powerful or affluent families... The teachers wouldn't dare.

Paranoid rubbish.... Its a security check and has nothing to do with airlines profiting from you by making you buy water from them... thats hillarious.

Yes... Plenty - it also depends on the destination... i.e. Some destinations require an additional security check prior to boarding (i.e. at the gate, after duty free etc).