123Stodg

100% Nazi salute:

100% Nazi salute:

True. Thai cards can't be added to Apple Pay. But you can still tap and go with many Thai bank debit cards and credit cards. Basically the same thing as the way Apple Pay works, but still using physical cards. For local transactions, alternative digital payment methods are also widely used in Thailand. PromptPay, for instance, is a popular QR code-based system that facilitates direct transfers from your bank account to merchants. Additionally, digital wallets like TrueMoney Wallet and Rabbit LINE Pay are commonly accepted and can be linked to Thai bank accounts for seamless electronic payments from a smartphone.

Corruption exists even in the wealthiest nations, though it takes more polished forms. In places like the U.S. or U.K., it’s not uncommon to see politicians influenced by corporate donors, special interests, or lobbying groups. Money flows into campaigns and legislation in ways that are technically legal but morally questionable. Tax evasion by the ultra-rich and multinational corporations like Apple, Amazon and Google is widespread, draining billions from public services. Even the massive 2008 financial crisis in the US stemmed partly from corruption in the banking system and poor regulatory oversight. Child welfare and animal care aren’t what they should be either. There are still school districts in rural areas of the U.S. where children ride on old, unsafe buses that lack proper seatbelts, and countless American schools are in disrepair, with crumbling buildings and underfunded resources. Meanwhile, stray animals are an issue in many Western cities, and shelters are overcrowded with abandoned pets. Puppy mills operate under weak enforcement in the U.S., churning out sick and neglected animals for profit. Road safety is a major problem too. The U.S. has some of the worst traffic fatality rates in the developed world, largely due to drunk driving, speeding, and distracted drivers looking down at their smartphones. In cities like New York or Chicago, potholes can go unaddressed for years, damaging vehicles and even causing accidents. Cyclists are routinely injured or killed due to poor infrastructure and driver negligence, and pedestrian fatalities are on the rise across much of the U.S. Infrastructure isn’t immune either. Power grids in wealthy countries are aging and unreliable. California experiences rolling blackouts regularly due to wildfire risks and grid capacity issues. Storms regularly knock out power in many states, leaving residents in the dark for days or even weeks. Water crises aren’t limited to the developing world; Flint, Michigan, is a prime example of how poor management left a city with toxic, undrinkable water for years. Meanwhile, rural areas in both the U.S. and parts of Europe still lack access to reliable high-speed internet, putting them at a disadvantage compared to urban centers. Human trafficking is a global crisis, and wealthy nations are no exception. In the U.S., victims are trafficked for forced labor and sexual exploitation in significant numbers. Europe faces similar issues, with traffickers targeting vulnerable migrants and refugees for exploitation in agriculture, domestic work, and prostitution. The enforcement of trafficking laws often lags behind the scale of the problem, leaving many victims without justice or support. Crime is another persistent issue. Knife crime has surged in parts of the U.K., particularly in cities like London, where youth violence continues to rise. The U.S. faces one of the highest rates of gun violence among developed nations, with mass shootings being alarmingly common, averaging at least one a day in the U.S. In both Europe and the U.S., systemic inequalities and poverty fuel many of these crimes, while overcrowded prisons often fail to rehabilitate offenders, perpetuating cycles of violence. Immigration and labor exploitation are also ongoing concerns. In the U.S., undocumented workers often face unsafe working conditions in industries like farming, construction, and domestic work, while many lack legal protections. In Europe, forced labor in agriculture and manufacturing is not uncommon, and migrant workers often face poor wages, unsafe conditions, and discrimination. Hate crimes, including murders motivated by race and religion, remain a sobering issue in developed countries. In the U.S., racially motivated large scale killings have made headlines, such as the Charleston church shooting in 2015, where Black worshippers were targeted in a hate-fueled massacre. Similarly, the Pittsburgh synagogue shooting in 2018 was one of the deadliest attacks on the Jewish community in American history. The U.K. has also seen high-profile cases, such as the murder of Jo Cox in 2016 by an extremist influenced by far-right ideologies, and attacks on mosques and Muslim individuals have increased significantly in recent years. These crimes expose the ongoing presence of racial and religious hatred, even in countries that champion diversity and equality. So while the West has made incredible strides in technology, infrastructure, and governance, it is far from flawless. Many of the issues that are blamed on poorer countries exist in the West too, albeit in forms that are often hidden under the surface. There’s no denying progress, but there’s still a long way to go to solve these global problems.

Or one could even say (kaw tod jak jai jing jing) to strengthen the apology even more. But I've never heard this phrase used in a real life situation. Perhaps you have, but even so, I would say that it is a very uncommon phrase and not a normal expression of one's guilt or regret used in a situation where one person has wronged another. I guess my point is that we can think of creative ways to express an emotional apology from the heart using everyday words from the Thai language, but I don't think they would ever follow a typical expression of social norms when confronting a situation of personal wrong doing between two people. Perhaps the most common phrase that you will hear on an everyday basis and used in many situations would be something simply like (kaw tod dooay krub).

Thank you, but from my understanding, the phrase you suggested is more an expression of sadness over a situation, an outcome to an event often caused by a third party, rather than a direct admission of personal regret for one’s own harmful actions between two people.

Although the title of this topic might appear like it is intended to stir the pot, I assure you that it's not, and the question here is one that is more philosophical than literal. In the Thai language there are two primary phrases that are regularly used to express being sorry: kaw tod (ขอโทษ) and kaw upai (ขออภัย). There are of course many other slight variations of these two main phrases, some perhaps stronger in meaning or more polite in context, but they are fundamentally merely all variations of the same. At first glance, these phrases might seem like equivalents to “I’m sorry” in English, but I believe that they are both different. And their meanings and implications actually reveal something deeper about Thai cultural values. Kaw tod literally means “I ask for the blame” or “I take the blame.” This expression focuses on accepting responsibility for a mistake, akin to saying, “I acknowledge that this was my fault.” Meanwhile, kaw upai translates to “I ask for forgiveness.” This phrase is less about taking blame and more about redemption and seeking to repair a relationship or restore harmony after an offense has occurred. What’s particularly interesting is that neither phrase contains an explicit emotional element of regret or, in a Western sense, sorrow. They focus more on social dynamics, either accepting blame or repairing the connection, rather than addressing personal feelings of guilt. By comparison, English expressions of apology, such as “I’m sorry” or “I apologize,” emphasize the guilty party's emotional state, thus highlighting their regret or remorse. This distinction raises an interesting question: does the concept of apology, as Westerners understand it, an emotional act of expressing regret, truly even exist in Thai culture? Or is the Thai approach less about personal feelings and more about restoring balance and maintaining face in relationships? As one might gather, Thai culture is often heavily influenced by Buddhism, which is in itself a philosophical Asian approach that values humility and the acceptance of man's imperfections. Mistakes that are made are often viewed as natural and partially unavoidable, being part of the human condition. In this context, kaw tod can be seen as an acknowledgment of karma, a way of saying, “I accept the consequences of my actions.” Similarly, kaw upai is about seeking release from the disruption caused by those actions, not just for oneself but for the other party and the bilateral relationship as a whole. This cultural difference can sometimes lead to misunderstandings for Westerners interacting with Thais. To a Westerner, a Thai apology might feel somewhat insincere, lacking the emotional depth typically associated with saying that one is “sorry.” But for a Thai person, the act of apologizing is less about expressing regret and more about fulfilling a social obligation to restore harmony between two people and to move forward beyond a conflict. On the flip side, one could argue that the Western emphasis on emotional apologies can lead to excessive dwelling on guilt and regret. Thus, is it better to focus on personal remorse, or to prioritize smoothing over relationships and moving ahead? The Thai approach, rooted in humility and practicality, might offer a valuable lesson in simply letting go. In the end, the Thai language’s nuanced approach to saying “sorry” offers a fascinating insight into Thai culture and social values. It reminds us that even universal experiences, like apologizing, are shaped by deeply ingrained philosophies about life, relationships, and human nature from both a Buddhist and Asian perspective.

A common frustration among Western men who’ve dated, lived with, or married Western women is the decline in sexual activity over time. The phrase “I’m not in the mood” (a more polite version of “I’ve got a headache”) comes up more and more as the relationship ages. It could also become a source of anger and frustration, leaving a guy feeling unappreciated, unwanted, and, of course, sexually unsatisfied. But what about in Asia? Many foreign men who date or marry Thai women—and other Southeast Asian women—may not feel this is nearly as much of an issue. In fact, a lot of Western men might be drawn to relationships in Asia precisely because they feel they don’t have to deal with this problem. So, is there something about Thai or Asian culture that fosters a different attitude toward sex in long-term relationships? Cultural differences could also play a role. In parts of Asia some women may feel a stronger sense of duty to their partners, including sexually. Sex might not be viewed solely as an act of passion but also as an essential part of maintaining harmony in the relationship and keeping a man’s interest. Additionally, there may be less open discussion about personal feelings, fatigue, or disinterest, meaning “not in the mood” simply isn’t expressed as often. On top of that, Asian women might believe that denying their partner sex risks him seeking a replacement elsewhere. But is it fair to assume Asian women are naturally more accommodating? Or is it more a case of the honeymoon phase lasting longer because these relationships often come with an added layer of cultural newness that keeps the spark alive for longer? This isn’t to say Asian women are perfect or that every relationship in Thailand is free of sexual tension or disagreements. However, many foreign men in Asia may have fewer struggles with rejection or disinterest compared to their previous experiences in the West. So, is “not in the mood” truly less common in Asia or not?

In Pattaya I've noticed a particular type of woman that I've seen regularly. These are not one that are out working at night, but they look to have been part of the nightlife scene before. You know the type, they often have lots of tattoos, speak good English, but it's broken English and it's obvious they learned it through their work, and they carry themselves with a kind of sassy confidence that can come across as pretentious smugness. They might no longer be working directly in the bars, but they stay part of that Pattaya scene, hanging out in expat spots, some running small businesses, or even just lounging around in the same areas that they once worked. The question is why do so many of these women remain in Pattaya even after they’ve left working in the bar scene? I wonder if they simply wouldn’t be accepted if they went back to their home villages. Many of them come from conservative rural farming areas where being a former bar girl, let alone one covered in tattoos, piercings, and fluent in street-smart English, might lead to social rejection. Back home, they could struggle to reintegrate into a society that looks down on their past choices and their current persona. Another reason might be that Pattaya offers them a sense of freedom and belonging that they can’t find elsewhere. Pattaya has its own sort of non-Thai culture: it’s a melting pot of expats, tourists, and Thais who are used to the unconventional party scene. There, they can embrace who they’ve become without judgment, and their bold personalities might even thrive in that kind of environment where there is a constant influx of foreigners looking for excitement. Maybe they're even addicted to the perceived thrill of the place. Of course, there’s also the practical aspect. Many former bar girls have built their lives around Pattaya. They’ve made connections with expats and tourists over the years, some of whom support them financially or have helped them to start a small local business. The city is also full of opportunities for unusual side hustles, things like helping foreigners with basic services, running massage shops, starting some small food business, or operating a market stall. Leaving Pattaya might even mean giving up the only stability they’ve carved out in a place where they actually know the ropes. It is also possible that some truly enjoy the freer lifestyle I guess. For some, it might not be about necessity, but actually preference. So I wonder if ex-bar girls stay in Pattaya mainly because they have no choice or because they feel they've found a place where they can truly be themselves?

When forming romantic relationships in Thailand, you could consider the option to choose from either cisgender or transgender women. But which makes a better partner? This isn’t about “which is better” in a general sense, or a question of homosexuality, but more a question of suitability for a meaningful, long-term relationship. It’s well known that many Thai cisgender women looking for foreign husbands come from troubled family backgrounds. Often a background of broken homes, financial struggles, abuse, and limited education can lead to immaturity or a lack of emotional stability needed for a serious relationship with a foreigner. Does this mean that transgender women could be a better option? There’s an argument that transgender women, particularly in Thailand, could demonstrate greater resilience and determination in life. Many have faced adversity, from societal stigmas to familial rejection, and have had to find their own way in life. This could perhaps result in them being more mature, independent, and possibly even better educated than some of their cisgender counterparts. Would this then make them more understanding, empathetic, and/or suitable as a partner? In terms of what makes for a fulfilling partner, there are also other factors to consider. Some foreign men may feel that transgender women can be more emotionally supportive and attentive in relationships, perhaps due to their own life experiences. Some transgender women might approach relationships with a more unique sense of generosity, care, and loyalty from having worked to overcome societal barriers in their own lives. This all may make them more appreciative of a supportive partner and more dedicated to creating a harmonious relationship. Cisgender women, though, may be more traditional in their attitude towards relationships, which could appeal more to men who prefer conventional gender roles and want to avoid any stigmas. Cisgender women would also place more emphasis on creating a family, which would be more fulfilling for men who seek raising children. However, for some men, this traditional Thai mindset also usually comes with expectations of financial support and encompasses a lack of emotional depth. Sexual fulfillment is another aspect where perspectives could vary. Some men find transgender women more open-minded when exploring intimacy, while others feel cisgender women offer a more natural heterosexual dynamic. Ultimately, it will come down to personal preferences and expectations in this area. Another factor to consider is family dynamics. Cisgender Thai women are often under pressure to support their families financially, which can complicate relationships with foreign male partners. Transgender women may involve less of this expectation, depending upon individual family circumstances, but their familial relationships could also be strained, adding an alternative layer of added complexity. What do you think? Could transgender women be more mature, generous, and emotionally supportive in a relationship, or is the background of an individual always more important than their gender identity? Is either group more suitable as a partner, or is it impossible to generalize? Also, would choosing a transgender woman as a partner only possibly be suitable for a man who is seemingly bisexual?

I don’t know about you lot, but since Covid ended, I’ve noticed a massive shift in the type of crowd now haunting Sukhumvit’s nightlife. In fact, I’d go as far as to say that without a few key groups propping it up, the whole scene might collapse faster than a plastic patio chair under a heavy bloke. When I first landed here decades ago, Sukhumvit was the go-to spot for Western expats and tourists: Aussies, Yanks, Brits, Germans, and the odd Scandinavian sweating their way through the heat. They were the backbone of the nightlife, packing out Soi 4 and Soi 11 like clockwork. It was a good giggle. These days? I’d estimate they’re barely 20% of the crowd. The other 80%? A melting pot of Indians, Arabs, Chinese, Koreans, and Japanese punters. And here’s the kicker: Indians alone probably make up two-thirds of the crowd on certain sois. Walk down Nana or Soi 11 now, and it’s a completely different vibe. What started as a playground tailored for Western tastes has shifted into something distinctly Asian-centric. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, it’s just fascinating to watch how the balance of power (and wallets) has changed. Are we watching Sukhumvit morph into something new and sustainable, or is it just clinging to whichever crowd happens to have the deepest pockets right now? Throw in the explosion of weed shops over the last few years, and it’s like stepping into a completely different universe. So what happens if even one of these major financial pillars, say the Indians or Arabs, stops showing up? Does the whole thing come crashing down? Let’s be real: Sukhumvit’s nightlife already feels like it’s teetering on a fragile dynamic. With sky-high prices and waning appeal for many of the old crowd, it just doesn’t have the same draw anymore. Sure, the bars, clubs, and streets still buzz, but would it all go belly-up if those propping it up decided to take their wallets elsewhere? What’s your take? Have you noticed the shift? And where do you think the nightlife would end up if some of these groups suddenly disappeared?

Long-haul flying: it’s either an exciting part of your trip or a grim exercise in survival. So, what’s your best strategy? Do you pop a pill or three, crack open a bottle, and have a 10-hour solo party in the sky? Or do you white-knuckle your way through it? Maybe you whack in some noise-cancelling headphones and chill with a big bag of pork-skin crisps and a neck pillow shaped like a lopsided donut? I’ve seen it all, though. A guy next to me once downed six vodka miniatures, popped a handful of green olives in his mouth and ate a smashed liverwurst sandwich he “found” in his carry-on, then burped, and passed out mid-sentence. Is that the secret? Or maybe it’s the lady who handed me a vial of CBD oil and said, “Trust me babe, you’ll be weightless before we hit cruising altitude.” Then there was the guy sneaking hits off a nicotine vape in the lavatory and the couple who got a bit too handy under the blanket. To be honest, there’s a million ways to tackle a flight it seems. Maybe you load up on shots of free Jäegermeister and attempt to flirt with the flight attendants, or you’re the type who downs a handful of "gummies" and wakes up drooling in a different time zone? Or perhaps you’re the model flyer: stays fully hydrated, strapped into your compression socks, lumbar support pillow, and then practice in-seat yoga and deep breathing. For me, flying from Bangkok to Europe or the US is always a test of my patience and endurance. I usually prep with snacks I’d never admit to eating on the ground (beef jerky, dried squid, and Doritos) and a playlist of questionable 80s power ballads. Add in a stiff drink before takeoff, and that puts me somewhere between comfortably numb and wondering if the in-flight magazine has ever won a Pulitzer. If it’s an extra-long haul flight, like to LA or New York, I might go for a little something “extra” in the form of a blue pill to knock me out even before the first meal cart rattles by. But hey, that’s just me. How do you fly? Are you a disciplined planner with a Kindle full of Dickens classics, or the kind who takes two Xanax with a double whisky and lets the chips fall where they may? Any hacks for picking the perfect seat, avoiding a stiff neck, or managing those in-flight farts?

And despite the name, French Toast didn't come from the French. It actually dates back to Ancient Rome: The earliest recorded version of French toast comes from the Roman cookbook Apicius (from around the 4th or 5th century AD), where it was described as a dish made by soaking bread in a milk-and-egg mixture and frying it.

For comparison, here are three typical American breakfast versions: one with pancakes, one with waffles, and one with French toast and an omelette. While some American breakfasts do include Canadian bacon, similar to what's shown in the first photo I posted above, hot dogs and baked beans are not typically part of a traditional American breakfast. One aspect I do appreciate about American breakfasts though is the use of hash browns. Delicious. The practice of frying potatoes this way likely comes from German influence, as they have a similar traditional way of preparing potatoes. As for the omelette, it was obviously borrowed from the French. Alas, perhaps the Americans got the idea for breakfast sausage from the UK.

Does the one being offered in the photo for 139 Baht serve as a good and accurate example of a proper English Breakfast, or does the AI's rendition below it hit closer to the mark? All I can say is that any breakfast that starts the day with beans probably gets thing off on the wrong foot, actually on the wrong cheek so to speak.