PB172111

While the crypto sandbox is an attention-grabbing headline, it’s a complex and risky tool for a problem that may not exist. Tourists aren’t crying out for a way to spend crypto; they want convenience, value, and security. Thailand would be wiser to improve core infrastructure, streamline visa processes, and focus on sustainability and cultural integrity—areas where every tourist, regardless of wallet type, benefits.

Dismissing the Sukhumvit Model as just another traffic nuisance oversimplifies what could be a meaningful urban reform. Yes, Bangkok has a history of clunky execution, but this initiative isn’t just about construction—it’s about addressing deeply rooted issues like illegal activity, homelessness, and pedestrian safety. Criticism is fair, especially if implementation stalls or inconveniences pile up without results. But preemptively reducing it to “same old, same old” ignores the potential for genuine progress if agencies are held accountable. Skepticism is healthy—but so is giving credit when cities try to fix long-ignored problems.

Then maybe it is not aimed at you…..

Not so lucky then Mr Bones 😎

I think he might be referring to private imports of vehicles which is typically between 200/300%

You’re right to point out that trade deficits, in and of themselves, aren’t necessarily harmful — especially when viewed through the lens of individual transactions, like shopping at a supermarket. You exchange money for goods, and both sides benefit. That’s how trade is supposed to work. However, Donald Trump’s focus on trade deficits reflects a different, more strategic or macroeconomic concern — not just a simple misunderstanding of economics. From Trump’s perspective (and that of some economic nationalists), persistent and large trade deficits can indicate structural problems in an economy: over-reliance on imports, underdeveloped domestic manufacturing, or even exploitative trade practices by other countries (like currency manipulation, state subsidies, or unfair barriers to U.S. exports). In that context, the deficit isn’t the root problem — it’s a symptom. His critics are right to say that reducing trade deficits shouldn’t be a goal in itself, but Trump uses the deficit as a shorthand for broader issues, like job loss in certain sectors or the decline of American manufacturing. The problem is that his rhetoric often simplifies complex global trade dynamics into a win-lose framework — which can be misleading. So, while the supermarket analogy works well on a micro level, Trump’s focus is more about national competitiveness and long-term economic resilience — albeit often communicated in a blunt, populist way that can distort the underlying economics.

Haha brilliant. That’s the kind of top-shelf banter that gets you either a beer or a punch, depending on how many Bundys they’ve had. The “camel-infested desert at the arse end of the world” line is savage—and fair. I mean, imagine being so proud of a country where everything wants to kill you, including the wildlife, the sun, and half your exes. And the yoghurt joke? Brutal… but let’s be honest—yoghurt does mature eventually. Most Aussies hit peak culture when they discover shoes are sometimes required indoors. Still, gotta love ‘em. Loud, sunburnt, and allergic to irony—but deep down, they’d sell their last stubby for a bit of British class and an actual sense of history. You’d fit right in at the bar, mate. Just make sure you duck when someone yells Oi Pom!

As has been mentioned, use the website. I have Shopee bookmarked in my Safari SE and have no problem shopping and ordering 👍

The same way as many of the tourists don’t wear a helmet in the Kingdom. They see someone else not wearing one so they follow the pattern. it is not just the Thai’s

Well he was wasn’t he? Dhurr

You failed because you answered it incorrectly. there are no questions where 2 or 3 answers are correct….None. Provide us with the example you are quoting.

Stupid tourist. Drunk, lying on the floor. What does he expect. I feel sorry for the bolt driver.

Ah Bali. The Benidorm of Asia for the Australians. Too busy for me. No peace on the beach from hawkers. Roads are narrow and crowded.

I found it impossible to have a quiet beer in a bar in Nana Plaza, lol….are you serious

Quite common. Always ask the year of the bike but the 1st registered date will be in the green book. Assuming you are the 1st owner. When you sell you put the registered as new date. the big bike shops will usually offer a discount if the VIN is an earlier year. Sometimes they can use an early frame when they build the bike in 2025

If doing it online, the new 90 day should run from the date you applied.

It is the Thai way for a lot of families who can’t afford a family car. It is stupid felang comments that are ignorant of this.

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I think it would be out of reach for most people. From what I can see it is not aimed at retirees. Proposed Golden Visa Program The Vietnam Tourism Advisory Board has proposed three main visa categories: Golden Visa: Valid for 5 to 10 years, targeting individuals contributing significantly to Vietnam’s economy, tourism, or innovation sectors. Investor Visa: A 10-year visa offering a pathway to permanent residency after five years, contingent upon maintaining the investment. Talent Visa: A 5-year visa with simplified renewal procedures, aimed at highly skilled professionals in rapidly growing sectors. These visas are intended to provide more accessible and flexible residency options compared to the current DT-class investor visas, which require active business involvement and substantial capital commitments.

What has corruption got to do with this story

Has to be true. Especially when you read all the western comments on this forum.

Apologies, I echoed you thoughts 🙏

Have to say that there are a lot of worldwide bridge collapses. The US has had its fair share to be honest. However, this section of the bridge does suffer from poor construction. I do wonder how much damage was caused by the recent tremors from the Myanmar earthquake.

Thanks Mr Hindsight

I agree that Mytello is a good app. I rang the UK Pension from Thailand. Waiting over an hour for them to answer then another 35 mins of chatting. 1 hour 35 mins all up…cost 35baht with no buffering. Plenty of other callls to OZ and UK…can definitely recommend