14 hours ago, GammaGlobulin said:

If someone has a cold or illness, then the polite thing to do, according to the locals, is to don a mask.

Which is good.

Though, we need another study to gauge the effectiveness of this behavior.

 

Meanwhile, I use the 3M N98 respirators for severe air pollution.

However, unfortunately, we have not had any, and I have not worn my masks this year.

I still have plenty.

 

So, yes, good to wear a mask if one is suffering from some illness.

However, efficacy must be further tested to judge which masks are best, and by how much.

 

you obviously are not in Bangkok nor the north nor northeast as the pollution is over the WHO recomendation almost daily.  and I am not sure I understand your comment about not having had any bad pollution as being unfortunate.

7 minutes ago, sammieuk1 said:

Whatever happens in Tango land rest assured the Mighty Baht will remain unaffected🤔
 

well I note it has lost one baht to a dollar in the past week or so...depending on how much one sends regularly that can add up plus we have no idea what other schemes Trump and Co. will reveal in the future

On 4/10/2025 at 10:18 AM, StandardIssue said:

 

His whole rationale for the Tariffs is flawed. No time to go into it but Tariffs based on trade deficits is just .. dumb. It makes no sense. I saw my retirement portfolio jump wildly about this last week. Insanity by a sophomore elected by a bunch of people who were wholly bamboozled.

really bamboozled too and I really fail to understand people.  Just look at his history (economically) lost a lot of businesses and yeah he didn't lose the money, his investors did.  Trump makes sure his lawyer protects him totally in every endeavor.  That is also why Trump hated to have his taxes paid on earnings for the public to see that the average citizen pays less taxes every year as he suffers losses or at least claims to suffer those losses so he doesn't have to pay taxes.  He basically gives away more than he gets in negotiations - look at Afghanistan - gave all to the Taliban and then left the pickings for Biden and inept or uprepared generals to withdrawal.  The NAFTA trade agreement between Canada and the US took several years to negotitate and now Trumpers seem to think that he can negotitate agreements between the US and 75 or more countries?  What a joke, he will probably give away all of the US half a state per country.  IMHO anyway

On 4/1/2025 at 7:38 PM, Humpy said:

From Press reports I understood that expats recieving income abroad were to be taxed.... yes or no ?

only if you meet the NECESSARY criteria do you have to get a tax ID at all and/or file for earned income from overseas, as has been explained numerous times here

On 4/10/2025 at 6:53 AM, steven100 said:

What a bunch of thief's the US gov admin are ....

 

This is nothing short of  Market Manipulation ...      ALL PLANNED NO DOUBT   !

 

*  check Trump's stock purchases recently and anyone else connected.  I'll bet they made millions shorting stocks ...

 

FFS  ....   absolute crooks    !!

Well normally, the SEC would be the driving force to begin an investigation but who named the new head? El Presidente himself and if this new head started an investigation, there would undoubtely be a newer head.  Oh so the Congress could do an investigation of their members and Trumps advisers?  don't forget, their investigation indicated that there was proof that Gaetz did commit statutory rape, used drugs regularly, trafficked women for sex, etcf - whatever happened to him? oH yeah he was nominated by Trump to be a department head but the Congress said they would provide all that proof to the public so...now he is just rich and doing his thing in Florida I guess.  Like I continue to say IMHO almost all elected or politically named persons in the govts of the world are exactly from the same mold, and most while claiming to be religious of some sort and honest are just lying!

1 hour ago, ThreeCardMonte said:

You’re making this more complicated than it needs to be.

 

Even Nancy Pelosi didn’t have to be this creative for her insider trading.

 

 

Yeah for sure as she just steered govt contracts to her husband's business. IMHO they are almost all just like that no matter their party affiliation.  Works around the world too.

7 hours ago, ThreeCardMonte said:

“worldwide destruction of the economy“

 

in your words, how will that come about?

Spider, insider trading for his friends and family wouldn't work without the tariff announcements, market reactions, test the waters with a fake 90-day pause, get all prepared for insider trading when he announced the actual 90-day pause.  MO of course that so many in the US govt do get rich off of insider trading and that is why they can't get a bill outlawing it!

16 minutes ago, placeholder said:

.

The Supreme Court told the Trump administration to seek the return of a migrant who officials mistakenly sent to a Salvadoran prison, rebuffing government claims that it need do nothing to remedy its error.

There were no dissents noted in the order, which directed the government to take steps to bring Kilmar Abrego Garcia, 29 years old, back to the U.S. from the maximum security facility it sent him to on March 15...

The administration maintained that its only error was sending him to El Salvador rather than to a third country, and that federal courts had no power to command officials to retrieve him once he was in custody by a foreign government overseas.

https://archive.ph/pTOZb

 

just so that they make a nice throne for him to oversee his kingdom - he truly believes he is a king now that the Supreme Court ruled that he can not be charged for any presidential action.  So, first off lets destroy the US economy and that of our allies!  I finally noticed many news clips where the folks too are wondering how much insider trading went into the latest retraction.  All criminals IMHO and if they win of course THEY will be writing the history books!  I wonder if all the idiots who voted for him still believe every lie that he tells.

On 4/8/2025 at 12:42 AM, EVENKEEL said:

Been buying mine at a 20 baht store for a good while. Probably better for eyes to have a prescribed pair.

I have reading glasses bought from Villamart.  But originally 40 years ago when I first needed glasses for reading I paid for the prescription and glasses in the US and it was a tad expensive.  Then I learned about macular degeneration and what Lutein can do for that - after taking it for 2 months, I didn't need my glasses for reading anymore.  I do realize right now that both my eyes are not equal so if I need reading glasses again i will go get a prescription and glasses made for my two different eyes.  At 78, I can still read some without glasses, depending completely on the lighting but for computer use with a lot of reading I do wear reading glasses.  I know I could increase the size of text on the computer but would rather just keep it like it is.

On 4/9/2025 at 9:48 AM, webfact said:

File photo courtesy of Airline Ratings

 

Thai Airways International (THAI) is on a mission to revolutionise its fleet, announcing a massive acquisition of 45 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.

 

This strategic move aims to rejuvenate its aircraft numbers and strengthen ties with the United States. The airline's Chief Executive, Chai Eamsiri, emphasised that this is pivotal for the airline's growth and aligns with Thailand’s trade negotiations with the US.

 

The ambitious expansion sees THAI's fleet growing from 85 aircraft to 103 by 2026, reaching 116 by 2027. By 2033, the airline plans to operate a fleet of 150 aircraft, bolstering its global presence and operational capability.

 

Chai highlighted the significance of this deal, remarking, "This agreement with Boeing supports Thailand's effort to balance its trade relations with the US."

 

 

 

Signed during the Singapore Airshow, this lucrative deal not only modernises THAI's fleet but also aligns with the Thai government's strategy to reduce the US trade deficit.

 

The agreement also includes the latest GEnx engines for these Dreamliners, ensuring state-of-the-art air travel. Deliveries are set to commence in mid-2027, with the procurement extending over the next decade.

 

Picture courtesy of Thai Airways

 

Additionally, the airline plans to further acquire 35 aircraft through leasing and hire-purchase arrangements to maintain agility in fleet management. This approach allows THAI to adapt its operations to market demands, enhancing competitiveness and operational efficiency.

 

In sum, Thai Airways' strategic fleet expansion signifies a boost in its market position and operational prowess, setting the stage for greater success in the global aviation landscape. By aligning with the US, the airline not only strengthens economic ties but also poises itself as a formidable player on the international airways.

 

Based on a story by The Thaiger

 

-- 2025-04-09

 

 

Well if they had chosen the F16's then thailand would have been ahead , even with jus this deal it seems that Thailand would be close to making the gap pretty small in their trade with the US. IMO

13 minutes ago, JoseThailand said:

When people get soaked in water, they don't go into restaurants, bars or clubs. And many avoid going out altogether! Either way, businesses lose a lot of money.

 

How is it possible to be so stupid and not understand this?

5 minutes ago, hotsun said:

The holiday is theirs only, they deserve to be proud of it

Well there have been several news clips of the govt indicating how much money will be spent/garnered during this "celebration" so wonder who that will be.  Airports are reported preparing for the influx of all the tourists for this splashing activity.  At least the average Thais really seem to enjoy this activity when they can squirt ice water at the farangs with no backlash!

1 hour ago, JimHuaHin said:

Bangkok not in the top 10?

 

With what Trump is doing to the USA, maybe some of the British wealthy will move there.

Yeah, especially since he wants the tariffs to succeed so that he can get the Congress to pass a tax break for the very rich!  typical paying back those funds that the billionaires gave to his campaign chest during this run for president!  If this doesn't wake up the Magaites, then nothing will until they are gone for good.  MHO anyway.

6 hours ago, Purdey said:

How does the government import more without a higher budget? American products are expensive.

Which agricultural goods does Thailand need from America? Sounds like coals to Newcastle.

well just a short period ago they had a choice between approved govt contracts for either Swedish planes or f16's from the US for the Thai AF.  hindsight helps of course though the Thais don't reall need either IMHO.  After all who would attack Thailand except tourists anyway?

22 hours ago, MalcolmB said:

McDonald’s, that’s it, the most famous and popular restaurant in America.

Presidents buy it for White House catering and billionaires eat it on their private jets.

 

Hugely popular 

 

and that is why 42% of American citizens are considered to be OBESE, diabetics everywhere!  But if that is your choice your health will suffer too IMHO 

Dr. William Li, Harvard trained Heart specialist and diet-disease researcher has written a couple of books on this subject:  He has a list of "grand slammers" which should be included in one's diet regularly:

 Fruits - Apple, Pear, Blueberries, strawberries, Watermelon

Veggies - Carrots, Kale BokChoy Mushrooms Chilipeppers

Nuts/Legumes - Walnuts, White beans, lentils, Chickpeas

Seafood - Shrimp, Mussels, Sea scallops, Sea Bass

Sweets - Dark chocolate

Beverages - Soy Milk, Matcha tea, Black tea, Coffee

Oils - Extra Virgin Olive Oil

  There are some additional but these were on his first chart put out after the books which contain additional info on healthy foods to fight disease of all types!

1 hour ago, save the frogs said:

https://www.diagnosisdiet.com/full-article/meat

Meat: The Original Superfood

Meat has a bad reputation. Most people think of meat, especially red meat, as dangerously unhealthy. However .... 

 

Meat is the only nutritionally complete food

Animal foods (particularly when organ meats are included) contain all of the protein, fat, vitamins and minerals that humans need to function. They contain absolutely everything we need in just the right proportions. That makes sense, because for most of human history, these would have been the only foods available just about everywhere on the planet in all seasons.

 

Suggest you see the link for a list of nutritionately complete foods

https://www.hollandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/food-drink/guide-nutritionally-complete-food/

On 4/3/2025 at 8:36 PM, tomazbodner said:

Oh come on now, cool down. Trump is doing the (only) thing he knows how to - a TV show. The man makes a spectacle because he wants to be in spotlight all the time.

 

And you know that's the same as advertising... I don't care what you write about me, as long as you get my name right"

 

The rest of the World is forming new alliances and trade agreements at a much faster pace than was expected just end of last year, and I'm confident, eventually bypassing US and trading among themselves, coming up with their own financial systems. Who would lead that "new system"? China? EU? BRICS? Don't know, but the sad part is that many Americans will be far worse off much sooner than they are expecting. US doesn't produce much locally, due to the greed of early corporations, undercutting competitors with cheap Chinese labour, which forced much of manufacturing out of the US, and rebuilding something like that in the age of globalisation will be close to impossible during Trump's 2nd term, possibly 3rd if he manages to push that through.

 

During this time, US soft power will diminish, and the special treatment their companies and people get abroad will go away as well, the pressure US can slam on someone through threat of, or actual sanctions would disappear as others move to alternative financial platforms.

 

I agree with Trump that something has to be done about US economy and especially the debt. And I admit that I believe it's gone too far for any easy solutions so in his position, I don't know what I would do to reverse that trend, but cutting costs and increasing revenue does make sense from financial perspective. But what he is largely putting aside is the century of good deeds that US has done for the rest of the World, which has gotten it into the position of global leadership and respect, and it's sad looking at all that great effort being removed in a couple of months by acts that lacked any kind of medium to long term impact assessment, and are more than likely to result in devastation to US economy and the lives of majority of Americans.

 

The rest of the World will suffer as well. But unlike what some people think, the rest of the World is a lot bigger than the US, has 20x more population, and is more than capable to establish their own alliances.

 

You don't start a trade war, especially to those who are holding nearly all of your debt, unless you are self-sufficient, which US absolutely is not. Nobody can survive in isolation, no matter how strong. If you only trade with yourself, you cannot create any added value, you're simply circulating the same wealth between the same people, and only way you can grow it, is by printing more, which leads to inflation, and lowering the worth of it.

 

What's worse than retaliation tariffs on US is the boycotting of US products. When that happens, when consumers find alternatives, even if all of this is reversed, American companies will find it extremely difficult to regain the foothold, especially with perception of their government. And with negative perception or even anger of Trump, that is quite likely.

 

There are some very dark times ahead for the US. And that's exactly why the constitutions and laws are written so they separate power. To prevent unchecked acts to cause a major devastation to the country with nobody able or willing to stop it.

 

So yes, 2nd of April will be a Liberation day. Probably most celebrated in China, as the World will be "liberated" from the US influence.

 

A sad day, indeed, for the World, but especially for Americans, who will very soon start to notice how it feels to no longer be special.

You mention that something needs to be done about the US debt seeming to agree to Trump's tariff plan - the only thing he is planning for that is the income generated from his plan working (which I truly doubt) would pay for the tax break for the billionaires and their corporations, and not passed on to Joe Citizen. who seems to be headed for a recession caused by Trump and who can least afford to survive, unlike the rich.  MO and agree that the rest of the world will not be so rosy if the US falters totally also IMHO.

20 hours ago, Walker88 said:

Let me use one of POTUS' stock phrases to describe the carnage of his Administration in just 2.5 horrendous months:

 

"Nobody's ever seen anything like it".

guess that is why the experts jumped from 25 to 40% and now to 60% chance of having a recession in the US when Biden left, the economy was booming compared to the rest of the world and I am and have forever been against all democrats and their policies.  IMHO a scary situation for many Americans, especially the old wondering if SS, Medicare and Medicaid will be negatively affected by the Trump/ELON policies.  Maybe that far-right conspiracy theorist could be consulted and help change Trump's mind.

4 hours ago, DrJack54 said:

Yes and normal. More immigration offices are requiring 12 month bank statement over bank book alone.

200b (simple process) 

Easier for him.

However many folk do this. Use a "dedicated bank account" for immigration purposes.

The actual rule is 800k for 2 months prior to application and for 3 months after application and not below 400k in other months. 

 

#4. Is normal. In future years doubt you would receive home visit for extension retirement. 

 

#5 which immigration office? Some like Jomtien you return next day.

That's normal in Thailand and goes without saying.

At CM immigration, one year extension get signed Passport back same day, sometimes if near lunch time have to come back after lunch to pick up.  That was up to last year anyway.

3 minutes ago, Yagoda said:

Good for her. The NCAA Fencing association should be investigated for anti women bias

not anti-woman, pro trans gender!