Burma Bill

Yes very much so! It is a matter of respect, as taught to me as a child by my parents. Here in Cambodia where I now live, I always "wai" to people. Interstingly, yesterday (Sunday 25th February 2024), I returned to Siem Reap from a consultation with a Thai specialist across the border at Ubon Ratchathani Government Hospital. When all was complete, the lady doctor offered her hand for me to SHAKE on leaving her clinic, wishing me good luck for the future. Amazing, and the first time in 24 years a Thai doctor has shaken my hand!

Well I never!

Dublin’s AerCap lends 17 aircraft to Thai Airways Will canned Guiness be available on flights??

Having lived in the north of Thailand for 20 years, this will be great news for the local people who will benefit from a bumper crop of mushrooms when the rain arrives, the excess being sold at roadside stalls.

With the greatest respect, Sam Rainsy is very much alive and well, living in exile in France. He is still a thorn in the side of the Cambodian Government. In absentia, he has been charged and found guilty of several political charges, including a life sentence for treason by ceding ethnic minority land to Vietnam. He vows to return to Cambodia to establish true democracy but attempts to enter his country via Thailand (and other nations) have been blocked - reference: In August 2019, Rainsy announced his intention to return to Cambodia on Independence Day on 9 November. The government confirmed that they would arrest him should he return on that date.[42] The Cambodian government responded by threatening any airline that transported him to Cambodia with "serious consequences".[22] The government of Thailand, from where he planned to travel to Cambodia by land, also denied him entry at the request of Cambodia.[23] Rainsy was denied boarding on a Thai Airways flight from Paris to Bangkok,[21] from where he planned to travel to Cambodia, on 7 November, despite having a valid ticket. He said he will find another way to return to his country. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sam_Rainsy (full story)

What an idiot, the worst border crossing into Thailand from Poipet, Cambodia. Should have used the much quieter and less controlled border crossings at O'Smach into Surin Province or Choam into Sisaket Province. Much better chances of getting through.

Unlike many ex and serving thai MP's who have degenerative cells in their brains!!

Thailand is still very nice up north among the hills, lakes, forests and moutains. I have recently visited and there are no millions of Chinese and Russians. Of course, if you want a favourite bar stool in a beer bar near a spot on a beach, then you will have to put up with them.

I would like to be a fly on the wall during discussions over lunch. I wonder if Yingluk will feature? At the time of her escape from Thailand in 2017, it was widely believed Cambodia assisted her, along with some members of the Thai military who did not want her around. Maybe she will be returning to Thailand as the result of a brokered deal? https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-41046993

Whatever the adverse, and in many cases jealous, comments on AN, congratulations on achieving your ambition. IMO, you have chosen a very pleasant picturesque area of Isaan in Thailand to live in. The cost of living will be less expensive than "rip off" Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket etc. etc. down south. I used to live not so faraway in Phu Wiang, Khon Kaen Province before moving to Cambodia. Enjoy your new life.

Well I never! A vast garbage pond in the "World Class" resort of Pattaya?😄

Yes indeeed, and I personally find that abhorrent as well.

I tend to agree with him. In recent times, much of the military equipment used by the Resistance fighters has come from the Burmese Tatmadaw itself! Reference: Operation 1027 has brought new energy to the anti-coup movement as resistance fighters take over key military outposts and capture territory around the country. Images shared online show fighters posing victoriously with weapons, ammunition and heavy artillery. https://observers.france24.com/en/asia-pacific/20231220-unprecedented-weapons-seizures-in-myanmar-boost-anti-junta-resistance-morale Picture of weapons and ammunition captured from the Tatmadaw in recent defeats. https://www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/more-myanmar-junta-bases-fall-in-shan-fighting-mndaa.html#google_vignette Over many years, there has always been a clandestine supply of weapons from the Drug Lords to the resistance groups to "protect their interests"

Such as Xiaomi Air Purifiers for exmple????😏

The two immigration desks at Khon Kaen's International Departure Lounge were only for Air Asia's "Fly Thru" passengers. I regularly flew with Air Asia from KKC to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Burma. (pre-covid). Very convenient as one by-passed immigration in DMK. I believe this arrangement still exists. Baggage checked in at KKC collected at destination. Again, no involvement with luggage at DMK. Technically, one departed Thailand at Khon Kaen and was in transit at DMK. Air Asia ground staff at DMK escorted passengers from domestic arrivals to international departures with no immigration involved. To my knowledge Udon Thani Airport does not offer this facility. Just a few days ago I returned home to Siem Reap (Cambodia) from Chiang Mai with Air Asia's "Fly-Thru" service. Immigration at CNX, in transit at DMK for flight to SAI.

Why not do the most honourable thing - give it all to charity!!

Although an abhorrent decision by the Junta to conscript youngsters into the terrorist Tatmadaw, it could be a blessing in disguise if one of the conscriptees gets an opportunity to assassinate his/her commanding officers sparking a rebellion!

I absolutely agree. The "dinosaurial" establishment will make certain of this - "people power" NO WAY!

What does one wear under them - trunks??

With respect, no! Much of the better quality clothing is made in Thailand and is more expensive than the local mass produced Cambodian and Chinese garments. I buy Thai made sports shirts and trousers in Siem Reap imported from Thailand.

Not only on a mountain, but in Parliament and Government House??

What law?? When I lived in Thailand, out in rural sugarcane country, there were no time restrictions as the "Mom & Pop" shops were able to oblige any time - and probably still do!

Sir, you have my sympathy. Elevators are now a definite "no,no" for me, ever since I lost foothold and tumbled down one in my local supermarket. Fortunately no serious injuries - just small cuts and bruises. Also a large crowd of gawping customers!

A month. I hope they have plans for their personal hygiene!

Poor man - so very sad. RIP and condolences to your family. Now 80, I have mobility problems and on several occasions I find myself having to struggle up flights of steps where there are no handrails (eg from street level into Malls) not only in Thailand but here in Cambodia as well. However, when it comes to flying, as a frequent flyer with Air Asia, the airline's free wheelchair service is excellent - from check-in desk to cabin door (if booked in advance with ticket).