kwilco

On 7/4/2025 at 8:34 AM, angryguy said:

Wet towel on the bed. Do all thai women do this?

 

Its the equivalent if i were to walk around the house with my shoes on. Me having to sleep on wet sheets

as a way to cool down during hot and humid weather. The evaporation of water from the towel helps to lower the surrounding temperature and provide a cooling effect, similar to how sweating helps regulate body temperature. This practice is a traditional way to cope with the heat, especially when access to cool water or baths is limited. 

11 hours ago, gk10012001 said:

What stopped me the last few years was the airfair.  The EVA premium economy seats that used to cost me 1500 are now 2400 with seat choice.  I am coming later this year for sure as I am semi retired and am glad to no longer see those mass chinese hordes.  Man that was weird back in 2018 and 19.  Hotel prices are OK.  The exchange rate of course as others have written is bad compared to 44 to1 USD back in 2004.  For a while it went up near 37 which was ok but now down at 33 or less, that hurts real buying power.  Hotel prices are OK although many original middle class basic but nice hotels no longer exist.  Eastiny Place for example.

so nothing to do with Chinese tourists apart from te fact you don't like Chinese - pure prejudice

What’s with people who just drop a thumbs-down on a post without saying anything? If you disagree, say why. Otherwise, it’s just lazy—and pointless.

2 hours ago, Aussie999 said:

For what..,the government is only enforcing legislation....again, as I have said many times, cannabis was only decriminalised for medicinal purposes only...not legalised for recreational use...geez, you users need to clear ya heads.

As said before the "gainst" brigade rely on prejudice and bigotry - everything in you post is factually incorrect.

1 hour ago, hotchilli said:

They took two steps backwards when they legalised it... now is one step forward

So ...what were those "steps back"?

2 minutes ago, Anthony mellows said:

Because alcohol is legal in nearly every country, apart from a few Muslim ones.Next.

Legality isn’t the same as harm reduction. Slavery was once legal too — doesn’t make it right. ‘Next’ isn’t an argument, it’s avoidance.

2 hours ago, peter zwart said:

Cannabis Advocates Warn of Economic Damage from Policy Shift.................................... 

That is the short-term vision.

 

so what do you cinsiderto be the "long-term"? Given that until a couple of years back it was illegal before?

22 minutes ago, baansgr said:

more unorthodox purposes

that is a total misunderstanding of cannabis in Thailand.

19 minutes ago, Kinnock said:

It's the MTL Elite plan.

THe problem for most expats is they don't have sufficient cover - they don't anticipate wat they need.

THe truth is that once over 60 people become more and more of a drain of the local healthcare systems - and many require treatment for chronic illness - and about half the prople over 70 will get some form of cancer,

Oeople are living longer and getting more diseases - THai hospitals are almost totally without ethics - old expats admitted without insurance are given minimal treat until they conveniently waste away - with the right insurance they might live a full life for another decade or ore

31 minutes ago, Lorry said:

 

Which plan do you have,  seems not expensive at all.

I've had various types of cover through work in Thailand over more tha 20 years, including the state healthcare - which worked well for me. however most employers only include the minimum cover, requiring employees to pay extra to get worthwhile cover. Because I'd been trated for skin cancers on the State system, many insurnce companies would take me on or cover that - which is actually pretty ridiculous. It's a bit like saying we'll insure you but only if you're not likely to get sick.

full cover for older people - e,g expats retirees is going to be in th region of 250,000 to 500,000 baht per year.

On 7/1/2025 at 6:04 AM, Kinnock said:

But it's costly at over 100,000 per year.

100000 WHAT per year?

On 6/27/2025 at 9:52 AM, Sales Team said:

 

Thailand has long been a top destination for expats and digital nomads seeking a high quality of life, with its affordable living costs. While the country offers both public and private healthcare options, many expats opt for private health insurance for peace of mind, better care, and flexibility, especially for those planning to stay long-term.

Understanding the healthcare system in Thailand

Thailand boasts a strong healthcare system, combining public and private options. While the public healthcare system offers affordable care, expats often face a few notable challenges, which include:

• Limited choice of hospitals: Access is often restricted to specific public hospitals assigned by employers.

• Long wait times: Public hospitals can be overcrowded, which results in extended wait times for appointments, treatments, and surgeries.

• Language barriers: In smaller cities or rural areas, finding English-speaking staff can be difficult, leading to communication challenges.

• Out-of-pocket costs for non-working expats: Retirees and non-working expats are often required to pay for public healthcare services themselves.

While public healthcare is inexpensive, it does not provide the flexibility, convenience, or personal care that private healthcare offers. That’s where private health insurance steps in.

The long-term cost of private health insurance

For expats in Thailand, understanding the cost of private health insurance is essential. Health insurance premiums can vary significantly depending on factors such as age, health, and the level of coverage. On average:

• Basic individual plans (covering inpatient or emergency care only) cost between 20,000 and 50,000 Baht annually (approximately US$540 to 1,350).

• Comprehensive individual plans (covering inpatient, outpatient, specialist visits, dental, and wellness care) range from 100,000 to 200,000 baht annually (approximately US$2,700 to 5,400).

• Family plans tend to be more expensive, with premiums averaging around US$11,683 annually, depending on the number of family members.

The cost increases with age, especially for those around retirement age, and may also depend on pre-existing conditions, coverage levels, and whether the plan is local or international. 

However, despite the costs, private health insurance in Thailand provides significant long-term benefits, particularly for those with chronic conditions or who anticipate needing specialist care.

The risks of going without private health insurance

 

Living in Thailand without private health insurance exposes you to substantial risks. While healthcare is generally affordable, the cost of private healthcare can quickly add up, especially for emergencies or major procedures. Here’s a look at the potential costs:

• A general doctor’s visit: 1,000 to 3,000 baht.

• Specialist consultations: 1,500 to 4,000 baht.

• Minor surgeries (e.g., mole removal, wound stitching): 5,000 to 15,000 baht.

• Major hospital stays or surgeries: 30,000 to 500,000 baht or more.

• Emergency evacuations: Air ambulance services can cost anywhere between 150,000 and 800,000 baht.

These costs can quickly become overwhelming if unexpected medical emergencies arise. Without health insurance, you may find yourself paying these bills out of pocket, putting significant strain on your finances.

Benefits of private health insurance for long-term stay in Thailand

Private health insurance offers numerous long-term benefits for expats in Thailand. Here are some of the most compelling reasons to invest in coverage:

1. Access to top-quality private hospitals and clinics: Private health insurance provides access to Thailand’s best private hospitals. These hospitals are equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by qualified medical professionals who speak English.

2. Faster access to healthcare services: One of the key advantages of private healthcare is shorter wait times. Private hospitals offer quicker consultations, treatments, and surgeries, so you don’t have to wait for urgent care.

3. Comprehensive coverage: Private health insurance plans offer extensive coverage that includes inpatient and outpatient care, specialist consultations, surgeries, dental and optical care, maternity care, emergency services, and even medical evacuation.

4. Peace of mind: Private health insurance helps protect you from unexpected medical expenses. With the rising cost of healthcare, having private insurance gives you peace of mind.

5. Tailored plans for expats: Providers like Cigna offer flexible health insurance plans designed for expats. These plans allow you to customise coverage based on your needs.

6. Long-term security: For expats planning to live in Thailand for the long term, having health insurance ensures continuous access to care and protection.

How Cigna’s health insurance plans work in Thailand

Cigna offers a range of health insurance plans for expats in Thailand. Their plans cater to both short-term and long-term needs, providing flexibility and access to top-tier healthcare services. Some of Cigna’s plans include:

 

• Cigna Close Care: This plan is ideal for expats living mainly in Thailand. It offers access to top private hospitals in the country and provides 180 days of coverage in your home country or Asia (excluding China, Hong Kong, and Singapore).

• Cigna Global Health: Perfect for frequent travellers, this plan offers three coverage options: Thailand/Asia, worldwide excluding the USA, or worldwide. All plans include emergency care and up to 21 days of coverage for short trips.

 

Cigna’s health insurance plans are known for their reliability and customer service. With direct billing at top hospitals in Thailand, the claim process is made simple, reducing out-of-pocket costs. Cigna offers 24/7 assistance for emergencies and medical evacuation services if needed.

 

 

 

Private health insurance in Thailand is a long-term investment in your health and well-being. Because the cost of private healthcare can add up quickly, private health insurance ensures that you have access to high-quality care, faster service, and financial protection against unexpected medical expenses.

For expats, having comprehensive private health insurance is worth the price, especially for those planning to live in Thailand long-term. Providers like Cigna offer flexible plans tailored to the needs of expats, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have reliable healthcare coverage. 

 

 

 

Sponsored - Original article by The Thaiger

 

How do you access the public healthcare system in Thailand?

1 hour ago, bannork said:

No, the Prime Minister of one country should not use the familiar tone of 'Uncle 'with another government's senior figure, the father of the current PM. It betrays a familiarity and a junior position in the relationship, almost as bad as Rutte calling Trump, 'daddy'!

Then she went on to say if there were anything he wanted, she would “take care of it''  and he was to take no notice about remarks from the head of her army in Region 2 who just wanted to ''seem cool''.

 Hun Sen before Thailand- wrong , wrong, wrong.

 

Of course Trump would never engage in language that informal. 

4 hours ago, thesetat said:

Wrong.... initially the soldier she insulted said it was ok and he would not press the issue. This happening now is not the soldier but instead her own Senate government. 

...and who do you think they represent?????? Do you jot u derstand how the "laws" not the electorate are used to change a government in Thailand....and if that fails they use the barrel of a gun. Always the same people, though.

10 hours ago, JoePai said:

asserting that the call was made solely in the nation’s her father's best interest.

You are using cynicism to cover your ignorance

So trying to sort out the border problems the (suspended) PM insults the military.

THe military run thr constitutional court which then suspends the PM amid a background of talk about a military coup. THis cycle of "fake" litigation and suspension of politicians is the Thai way of running a country - it is not democratic, it is at the will of the military and needs to be stopped so the country can get on with becoming a democracy.

what was teargument about? Why was she being so violent - what was she saying to the other men who got involved.

11 minutes ago, Stiddle Mump said:

Nature has so much to offer.

oh dear! so you make a disnctilon? - do you bleieve in atoms and molecules? - BTW - The first evidence of the existence of viruses came from experiments with filters that had pores small enough to retain bacteria. In 1892, Dmitri Ivanovsky used one of these filters to show that sap from a diseased tobacco plant remained infectious to healthy tobacco plants despite having been filtered

9 minutes ago, Stiddle Mump said:

Thanks Sir. No problem.

 

First I look for evidence that the things that are commonly thought to be true actually are. 

 

For instance; "Coughs and sneezes spread diseases." That old chestnut. Turns out that they don't.

 

Where is the elusive virus? Not ever seen the evidence that shows they are real.

 

Vaccines: The immune system: Big Pharms medications: White-coat procedures: I've researched them all.

 

www.CanYouCatchaCold.com

 

Nature has the answers we seek.

so no research at all then? Where do you get your "evidence" or are you too ashamed to say?

7 hours ago, JimHuaHin said:

Again?

 

Did Big Pharma ever stop pushing dangerous meds?

 

Do you know the potential drug or food interactions of all the meds you are taking?

 

Do you know the potential side-effects of the meds you are taking?  Do your doctors inform you of these side-effects?

 

yes and rs - do you seriously think only you are privy to that?

8 hours ago, Stiddle Mump said:

So many words. Some true. But most not so.

 

I think you actually believe there was a pandemic. The pandemic was driven by the PCR test.

 

I think you actually believe there was/is a virus called covid-19. Where's the evidence? Don't other looking; there is none.

 

You are easily fooled Sir. Turn off the Tele.

 

Nature has the answers we seek.

Thanks for the re-post - it's all a bit too much for you, isn't it?

where do you get your information from?

Conspiracy theorists love to think they’re doing research, but all they’re doing is digging deeper into ignorance. It’s not truth-seeking — it’s fan fiction with a medical theme. I think it’s genuinely sad how much time some people spend spinning conspiracies when that same energy could be used to actually understand the science. But I guess it’s easier to yell 'Big Pharma' than read a clinical trial."

So here's a reality check from science ... It's healthy to be sceptical. It's essential to hold institutions accountable. But it’s also crucial that scepticism doesn’t slide into pseudoscience.

The post above makes sweeping claims about PCR tests, antiviral treatments, and COVID-19 response, while invoking classic tropes of the "Big Pharma" conspiracy. So let’s take a breath, bring some scientific rigour to the table, and unpick the core claims with the help of actual evidence—not viral Substack posts or random X threads.

PCR Tests Are Not “Discredited”

Let’s start with the PCR test. Contrary to what's claimed here, PCR (polymerase chain reaction) remains one of the most accurate and sensitive methods for detecting viral RNA. Yes, it’s true that cycle threshold (Ct) values matter—and labs have refined protocols over time to improve accuracy—but the idea that “95–99% are false positives” is simply false. That statistic doesn’t exist in any credible epidemiological literature.
PCR’s sensitivity means it can detect low viral loads—important for early detection, especially in vulnerable populations. Are there limitations? Of course. But that’s true of every medical test. That’s why PCR is often combined with clinical symptoms, contact tracing, and other data in public health decision-making.

Ben Goldacre—whose work Bad Science and Bad Pharma rightly criticises data manipulation—would call out misuse of statistics. But he would also call out cherry-picking and the spread of scientifically illiterate paranoia masquerading as critical thinking.
Ramdev Sivir and the “Toxic Antiviral” Myth

Next, remdesivir. It’s no silver bullet. But neither is it a cartoon villain. Clinical trials like the ACTT-1 trial (published in NEJM) found that it reduced recovery time in hospitalized patients. Other studies found mixed or modest benefits—but calling it "toxic" based on misapplied data from Ebola trials is disingenuous.

Drugs are authorised under emergency use when risks of inaction are higher than risks of use. That’s how medicine works in real time during a pandemic. If better treatments emerge, protocols change. That’s not conspiracy—that’s adaptive evidence-based practice.

Hydroxychloroquine, Ivermectin and the “Suppressed Cure” Fallacy
This narrative has been debunked countless times. Large-scale randomised controlled trials—including the WHO’s Solidarity Trial and the UK’s RECOVERY Trial—found that hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin offer no meaningful benefit for COVID-19 patients and can carry risks, especially in unsupervised use.
If vitamin D and zinc were enough to treat severe viral respiratory illness, we’d have a very different medical history. Supplementing deficiencies is helpful—but replacing antivirals with multivitamins in ICU patients is not medicine. It’s magical thinking.

Why the “Big Pharma = Evil” Argument Fails
Here’s where Goldacre comes in. In Bad Pharma, he exposes real problems: lack of data transparency, ghost-writing, and selective reporting. But even he warned that if critics abandon evidence and run on emotion, they become as untrustworthy as the worst industry offenders.

Criticising pharmaceutical practices is necessary. Replacing that criticism with online rage, false statistics, and science denial is worse—it undermines trust in medicine, harms public health, and fuels dangerous movements that cost real lives.

Science Is Messy, But It’s Not a Conspiracy
COVID-19 was a global emergency. Mistakes were made. But they weren’t the product of some evil cabal—they were often the result of uncertainty, time pressure, and an evolving evidence base. Science learns. Conspiracy theories don't.
If we care about truth, let’s do better than posts like this. Let’s demand transparency, yes—but also uphold scientific literacy, humility, and responsibility in the way we talk about health.
multivitamins in ICU patients is not medicine. It’s magical thinking.
Why the “Big Pharma = Evil” Argument Fails

Here’s where Goldacre comes in. In Bad Pharma, he exposes real problems: lack of data transparency, ghost-writing, and selective reporting. But even he warned that if critics abandon evidence and run on emotion, they become as untrustworthy as the worst industry offenders.

Criticising pharmaceutical practices is necessary. Replacing that criticism with online rage, false statistics, and science denial is worse—it undermines trust in medicine, harms public health, and fuels dangerous movements that cost real lives.

Science Is Messy, But It’s Not a Conspiracy
COVID-19 was a global emergency. Mistakes were made. But they weren’t the product of some evil cabal—they were often the result of uncertainty, time pressure, and an evolving evidence base. Science learns. Conspiracy theories don't.

If we care about truth, let’s do better than posts like this. Let’s demand transparency, yes—but also uphold scientific literacy, humility, and responsibility in the way we talk about health.

It used to be very easy - I don't think anything has changed - I used to cross every month - It took me about half an hour to get from Mukdahan to Savannakhet. Obviously you need the right docs. THe cars can't be on finance and  you must have the purple book car passport

On 6/26/2025 at 11:25 AM, DonniePeverley said:

 

 

Easily upset? 

 

I don't want to inhale marijuana smoke. No sane person who isn't smoking that stuff would want to either.

 

I tell you what next time i see you i'll just cough in your face, we will see how easily offended you are. 

 

The marijuana laws have attracted Bendirom Magaluf types Brits, from council estates. Anything to stop them is welcome in my opinion. 

3 lines of total fantasy