The Fugitive

I have Huawei GR5 2017 (stopped updating it's operating system at Android version 7) as my back-up mobile. Can't instal Chase UK banking app because it requires mininum Android version 8.1. No option of web based browser access. Not verified this myself but have read that rooting/jailbreaking prevents installation of banking apps.

Thank you for the information. Both very important considerations.

Can confirm. Have been using mine (physical U.K.) continuously at 7/11 since September 2022.

Possibly out-dated information. This afternoon I used my U.K. Chase physical debit card by contactless method at 7/11. I can advise that my Mrs told me I had to use it at one machine as the other one (there are only two at the shop we use) wouldn't accept it.

I've spent a short while in and around Mexico City. I was pleasantly surprised by how many people spoke English and how friendly they were.

Mrs only brought me two today. Usually four.

I have True Move pre-paid in my main mobile and AIS pre-paid in my back-up mobile. I have the add-on unlimited data packs on both. Cost 1,800 baht per annum for each. Speed rating 1Mbps for both. I find both most satisfactory. Just done a random speed test on True and got; 25.0 Download Mbps, 1.94 Upload Mbps. AIS is usually similar. Sometimes download speeds exceed 50 Mbps. Much more than satisfactory when I'm out and about.

My experience with UK police is that they don't, won't (much prefer not to) attend a 'domestic' dispute.

Local shop sells crash helmets for 300 baht. You can guess how good they are.

That's quite correct. From experience a barrister would argue that in her defence. Plus, of course, living with the constant worry that she may be arrested at any time has caused her anxiety. The police have failed to perform their duty in a diligent and timely manner to the detriment of the clients health.

Very sorry about your wife. Thanks for letting us know about your border experience.

Agree. Private hospitals shouldn't be able to 'cherry pick' where Emergency Treatment is required and they are the nearest facility. I don't know what they are reimbursed by the Thai Government (if indeed they are) for providing Emergency Treatment? Could be they get the same as a Government Hospital which would explain their reluctance! Additionally, Private (and Government) Hospitals face problems if the patient survives and requires further treatment. Without money in their bank account beforehand (or consent from any insurer if they choose to accept that) they are then placed in the position of having to discontinue treatment. I've read that a Private Hospital would, at that point, seek to transfer the patient to a Government Hospital.

In UK the problem is lack of staff and competency. However, our NHS is completely free. I agree that I've received better attention in Thai Government hospitals than in UK.

Absolutely!

Seem to remember reading that a metal roof painted in a light colour is cooler than a tiled roof? Don't know anyone with a metal roof that isn't rust coloured so can't test. However, I know how hot our tiled roof is. Unbearably.

How to receive OTP's from your Thai bank?

I'd be very pleased with the service and price too! Thanks for your report.

The reason I asked is that unlike your local Community Hospital these places have continuity. You get to see the same doctor(s) each time. It's also difficult (impossible) to find a suitable one if you can't speak or read/write Thai. You need Thai help! My local ENT (ear nose and throat) doctor is superb. He and his receptionist (no nurse) speak excellent English. He gave my stepdaughter priority treatment when she was visiting last week because he knew and remembered us. What you intend to do will be appreciated and remembered!

Was it a High Street clinic? The ones with green Thai language only signs?

Are there still such things as 'Phablets?'. Or have the larger mobile screens replaced them? I was considering buying a tablet with a SIM slot. Using my VOIP service would give me telephone connectivity except for Thai banks which will only send OTP's to Thai mobile numbers.

Thanks for your information. My Thai Mrs once purchased a Samsung phone whilst she was working in South Korea. Fine for Korean and English language but no Thai!

Had to fill out an entry/exit form entering land border from Nong Khai but nothing else.

Never mind grants and subsidies, I want completely free equipment, installation and maintenance same as UK.

Thanks for letting us know. Good news, be positive. That may be it or, hopefully, the remainder in dispute may still be under investigation?

He's in intensive care.