metice

I saw an article in the Phuket News saying there are going to be changes to the non-immigrant visas that volunteers have if working for a foundation or charity. This would involve applying for an extension every 90 days (and paying the 1,900 Baht fee). Any truth in this? I haven't been able to find out anything else.

I've just ordered one on ebay. Very cheap (albeit from China). No import tax if less thean 1000 Baht. Free shipping. If it's no good, throw it away. Cost is less than 200 Baht

Howabout setting up a group using meetup.com. I'm surprised there aren't any active groups in the Phuket area; Bangkok has many and they appear to be very successful. From sports to photography to computer games! Who wants to try one here?

"Mr Tum was rescued by beach lifeguards after getting into difficulty, and was taken unconscious to Patong Hospital"

Unfortunately, he wasn't rescued otherwise he may well still be alive. How can this happen at the busiest section of the beach where there are more lifeguards than anywhere else? Apparently he was dead when he was pulled from the water. Another needless drowning. RIP

Food labelling won't change anything. Just look at the health-related diet problems in America. It's about education and choice. If you want to avoid an excess of sugar and salt, don't eat processed foods and learn to cook!

There's an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables available throughout the country. The biggest concern is the pesticides that are used liberally. Thais use chemicals that are banned in other countries food for export has to meet higher safety standards. Organic produce is still hard to find and too expensive.

I was also searching for RC hobby shops in Phuket for a Phantom but found none. The best options I could find were in Bangkok, or a couple of established Chinese companies that seem quite reliable. Where did you buy yours? Do you use it for photography?

I did think about Ebay but I worry about the greedy customs officials and how much they would charge. Any experience with this?

I'm trying to get hold of a Canon 50D - it's about 5 years old so I don't think any of the normal camera shops will stock it new. I haven't been able to find anyting on classifieds. I was wondering if there were any shops in Phuket that might sell it secondhand?

My question is - is the monsoon always like this in Phuket??

I recently moved form Bangkok. Two last rainy seasons there were most of the time...nice and sunny. A rain or two a day and that's it. But what I see in Phuket for the last few days is depressing.

cheers!

Phuket rainfall is on average 50% more than Bangkok. Having said that, the overall climte in much more agreeable and there is little pollution to contend with.

It's exactly the same paperwork and cost for Thai and Farang.

1. Paperwork is copy of Thai ID and copy of Tabian Baan

2. Yes, riding test on the track.

3. I paid for the use of a motor bike taxi waiting at the licence center gate. 100 baht.

4. Cost same as a farang, can't remember, something like 200 baht for just the m/bike licence.

I also need to get a bike licence after getting stung for a 500 Baht fine yesterday. As far as the paper work goes, is a rental contract sufficient as I don't have a Tabian Baan?

Is there anything I need to learn about beforehand?

Thanks for that. I originally thought the figures you had quoted earlier were for an aerated pond because they seem densly stocked.

I was also wondering for a set up like this (or a smaller version), if you need a water change during the growing cycle or between cycles?

50% water change when water is foul during growing cycle, usually twice.

Thanks for sharing RBH. I appreciate it

Thanks for that. I originally thought the figures you had quoted earlier were for an aerated pond because they seem densly stocked.

I was also wondering for a set up like this (or a smaller version), if you need a water change during the growing cycle or between cycles?

I'm trying to find out the recommended stocking of catfish for an earthen pond without aeration. Obvioulsy it's not for commerical purposes as I just want this for psersonal consumption. I've tried researching elsewhere but most figures are based on some form of aeration.

Thanks for your advice Worgeordie

I'd lke to negotiate a lease for a large plot of land and buildings and I was wondering if there are any guidelines for assessing the rental value.

It's located in the countryside, there's no mains electricity and the buildings have been unused for 15 years. It has stood empty for this period without any income for the owner.

I know the valuation of the land and buildings but not really sure where to start in terms of a rental fee.

There was a group of tourists at the waters edge watching the sunset this evening who were approached by one of the beach chair vendors demanding some money. I'm guessing they had used his facilities and perhaps owed him something (I thought they always paid in advance?). Anyway, this guy was aggressive and confrontational and an arguement ensued. When he didn't get what he wanted he started lashing out with his fists. He also struck two of the women. The guy was out of control.

His work buddy then appeared on the scene and I thought he was going to try and calm his friend down. Insead, he joined in with the violence.

The concession is near the lifeguard tower and this is the second time in a month I've seen this guy start a fight. He clearly has a problem.

Please... no replies about how some ignorant tourists deserve it. They weren't looking for trouble and this was totally unwarranted. I always admire the patience of Thais in dealing with uncultured tourists and it's a shame this incident will shape people's opinion. It was sickening to see this, especially as it was on the busiest part of the beach where it was witnessed by many tourists.

I hope they file a complaint because I fear it's not the last time he will do this.

I have a friend who has a valuable collection of Buddha antiques from Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Burma. He would like to sell them but no longer has any connections in the antiques trade. I was wondering what might be the best way of going about it. He has no idea of their value so I think we need a professional who can put a price on them. Any idea where we might find someone? Any thoughts on trying to sell them here in Bangkok or perhaps overseas? Many thanks,

There seems to be a lot of preperation for some kind of event on Kata beach. The whole of the beach road has been closed and marquees being set up. Have they given any thought to where people can park? (yeah ,I know that's a silly question)

Good to see someone is trying something original here. It's a shame that it's such a small space - they probably need to boost their income from bar and restaurant sales. Not sure if they will get that. Maybe Patong would have been a better location.

Thanks for all of your advice and suggestions

Are you looking for fresh yeast?

The recipe I was given lists granulated yeast. Not sure of the pros and cons compared to live yeast.

When your reicpe lists granulated than you do not need fresh yeast.

But if you want bake bread the fresh one gives a better taste.

Fresh yeast sounds a better option but I was wondering if it's more difficult to work with?

Are you looking for fresh yeast?

The recipe I was given lists granulated yeast. Not sure of the pros and cons compared to live yeast.

from chalong down to rawai, when you come down the slop on the left hand side, called schmidt.

erverything you need for bread making

huuwi

Thanks huuwi. Is this a farang-owned shop?