spidermike007

The "Land of Smiles" thing is just a quaint holdover from earlier, happier, better times, now gone, most likely forever as once lost, these things can't be rebuilt. It's poetic, but entirely antiquated, much as some all-in expats would like to try & insist otherwise.

I sense that these kinds of statements are written primarily by ex-pats who have been here for a long time, and live in either Phuket, Samui, Pattaya, or Bangkok. The bigger cities and resort islands have a somewhat different lifestyle. Also, on the southern islands nearly all the local people (if that is what you want to call them, since most of the locals left long ago with the fortunes they made from selling their land) are terribly jaded, and have bad attitudes. And alot of people in the tourist industries are also jaded.

In the smaller towns, and in the provinces, most Thais I run into are very pleasant. Compared to the average person in the US, Europe, OZ, or NZ, they are positively delightful. I find most cheery, friendly, in good humor, and approachable. More than I can say for the West. I also find it has alot to do with what you put out there. If I am friendly, outgoing, smiling, and warm, people tend to treat me in much the same way here in Thailand. Not so in the west.

"I sense that these kinds of statements are written primarily by ex-pats who have been here for a long time, and live in either Phuket, Samui, Pattaya, or Bangkok."

... and you'd be wrong. But thanks for playing.

You miss the whole point. There was a time when you didn't have to go on safari into the hinterlands to find the "friendly Thais", as I doubt the majority of tourists would want to have to do now. Like the frog in the boiling water, some have been here continuously for so long, that they're actually oblivious to the downward spiral.

Some people are so open-minded they think they should give frog soup a try... Oh well, into the soup and out of the gene pool I guess.

A percentage of the population wakes up in the morning so constipated, or so determined to see ugliness, that it is difficult to see anything wonderful, lovely, positive, or worthy, about the average day, the place they have chosen to live, the people they are surrounded with, and the life they have chosen for themselves. The downward spiral? Of course things have changed. Things have changed all over the world. One could argue that the quality of life was better 20 or 30 years ago, nearly anywhere. But, what is the point of that argument? Where does it lead? What does it prove? In my opinion that argument is for the sentimentalists. The rest of us just get on with our lives, and extract all of the enjoyment, satisfaction, fulfillment, and humor out of each day.

The real argument that is worthy of engaging in, is the question of whether or not your life is better here, than there. We all have that choice. Most of us came from there, wherever that may have been. Some of us choose to live our lives here, because we know in our hearts how much better our lives are here. And some of us are fortunate to be been blessed with really good lives, and to love living here, and to love the people we interact with, and to love the people we are surrounded with. Some of us have created that reality. It is not a fiction we live. We have not chosen to bury our heads in the sand, and completely ignore the bizarre stuff that is going on. We see the murders, and the mayhem. But, I see that everywhere. Especially in my homeland, the US, which is falling apart from my point of view. But, some of us are not affected by the craziness here, on a daily basis. And some of us would argue that with the exception of alot of the stories that make it into the news, there is far less craziness here.

And I am not talking about a safari. I am talking about people I run into daily, whether it be Bangkok, Hua Hin, or elsewhere. A lot of delightful souls occupy this country. If you do not see that, I suggest you travel overseas, more often, and then make a comparison. I certainly have. What I found was very encouraging.

I am so sorry you are not enjoying your encounters here. My heart genuinely goes out to you.

Diaspora Jews are of course entitled to their opinions, whereas Jews in Israel can actually vote on Israeli government policy. Should any diaspora Jews feel strongly enough about Israeli politics they can always use their right of return and make Aliyah.

My own view is that Israeli Jews know what's best for their own security and should not jeopardize that by making decisions based on the desire of some diaspora Jews to avoid any heat due to their identity, especially as the right of return may be needed one day if Western politics shifts even further to the left.

Citizenship is not a requirement for expressing an opinion, especially with regards to a country people hold cultural, religious and familial ties to.

Blanket statements regarding Israeli Jews knowing better ignores the plurality of political opinions within Israel.

All very true, but Israelis are there in that rough neighborhood and American Jews are not. So American Jews lecturing Israelis about morality decisions is not likely to be taken very seriously. On the other hand, it wouldn't hurt for the diaspora to be appreciated more. Israel doesn't have all that many friends so it's smart to be nice to your friends.

Precisely my argument. Especially when that friend is giving you in excess of 3 billion dollars per year. For what in exchange? It is about Bibi and his cohorts not being able to control the extremist freaks. The orthodoxy in Israel puts the orthodoxy elsewhere to shame. We are talking about strict. Just some examples of how bizarre and extreme this community is.

For various reasons, in Israel, around half of their members do not work, and most of those who do are not officially a part of the workforce. Haredi families are usually much larger than non-Orthodox Jewish families with four, six, or even twelve children.

Haredi Jews are typically opposed to the viewing of television and films, and the reading of secular newspapers and books. There has been a strong campaign against the Internet and internet-enabled mobile phones without filters have also been banned by many leading rabbis. In May 2012, 40,000 Haredim gathered at Citi Field, a baseball park in New York City, to discuss the dangers of unfiltered Internet. The event was organized by the Ichud HaKehillos LeTohar HaMachane. Internet has been allowed for business purposes so long as filters are installed.

This is part of what the Israeli government is up against. How do you reason with people of this ilk?

Part of this issue has to due the continued US government support to Israel, which is huge. Will it continue, if the support amongst the more reform minded Jewish population within the US continues to wane? Some of us hope it will not continue. I myself, would like to see US support for Israel cut dramatically. They are doing quite well on their own, and do not need our help.

Total American aid to Israel since 1949 exceeds $121 billion (in non-inflation-adjusted dollars).

In 2007, President George Bush and Israel entered into a 10-year Memoradum of Understanding that would give Israel $30 billion in Foreign Military Assitance.

At the completion of this 10-year-plan in 2018, the U.S. will have given Israel $30 billion in unconditional military aid. The United States awards this grant in one lump sum, unlike other foreign recipients, which receive their payments in installments. Israel uses the interest it earns on this amount to pay down its debt to the United States, valued at $455 million in January 2013. In his March 2013 visit to Israel, President Barack Obama pledged to continue multi-year aid packages to Israel through 2028.

Under the terms of the agreement, Israel will be able to spend 26 percent of these U.S. funds on Israeli-manufactured military equipment. (This is known as Off-Shore Procurement.) This agreement, which is unique only to Israel, has allowed Israel to grow to be the world’s 7th largest exporter of military weaponry and equipment.

One can argue that visa policy for ex-pats in general should be liberalized. As long as we can prove we have the cash, and are a benefit to Thai society, why not? A lot of us are pumping significant amount of cash into the local economy. It would be a proactive policy. But, since when is any government in Thailand proactive, visionary, forward thinking, or wise?

And this is why all foreigners should read the writing on the wall that in this country when it comes

to dealing with the loco locals, one is advised to tread lightly, very lightly, one never knows the

popper looking guy next to you carrying a gun, as it was already established that those hot headed

idiots act first, and never think or care of the consequences....

Good advice, apply this when driving also as a bit of rage might get you shot,

maybe thats why Thais black out their cars windows, which also makes the cars dangerous as you can,t see much at all in the rear view mirrors.

Shooting sounds very similar to one a friend saw in a karaoke bar, 2 tables of Thais slinging it at each other , became louder over a bit of time, then one idiot pulled a gun and shot one of the Thai mens dead from his table.

Maybe the brother supplied him the gun, maybe he will get off with a plea of self defence as he thought the other guy was going to pull a gun and shoot him.

This country needs to introduce gun laws and make guns illegal , Thais should not be allowed to carry guns.

Gun are illegal here. Very illegal. But, when you have an incompetent and compromised police force nationwide, that does not really matter. As always, it depends on who is carrying the gun.

The above advice is good advice. In general, never, every pick a fight with a Thai man. Do so at your own peril. You just never know. The value of a life here is relatively low. And you cannot win the fight. If you beat him up you lose. And if he beats you up, or kills you, you and your family lose, big time. And you do not want to get in the middle of something, nor draw a target onto your own back, or head. So, be smart. Stay out of arguments, and don't provoke the locals. It is not worth it. Keep a low profile, and Thailand remains a safe place, for most of us.

I used to be a bit of a hothead on the road, but I realized there is no point. And the potential for danger is high. So, why allow myself to be provoked? It does require a lot of patience, as many Thai men are constantly doing things on the road which are childish, foolish, reckless, and crazy. But, I just let them do their thing, shake my head, keep my cool, and move on.

Spoken to a few Thais about this and it doesn't seem to compute. They seem to like him as an anchor and aren't concerned that he's a thief.

it's as if they've been desensitised by this behaviour and it's just the norm.

Thailand needs more (genuine and modest) role models.

Fascinating point, and well taken. But, where will these modest role models come from? Will anyone listen? Does anyone care? Where are the Buddhist saints and seers when you need them? Where are the philosophers? Where are the geniuses?

In the US, at least you have the example of a few giant men, who contribute fortunes to make society a better place. Guys like Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Ted Turner, Chuck Feeney, Paul Allen, George Lucas, David Geffen, Larry Ellison, Michael Bloomberg, Mark Zuckerberg among many others, contribute fortunes to charity, and benefitting mankind. People see this, and it does set quite an example. Sure, they have vast fortunes, but I could name dozens, and dozens of gazillionaires who give very, very little, both here and in the US. How about Kobe Bryant? It is astonishing how little of his fortune he has given away. How about Tom Cruise? With the exception of his forced donations to Scientology, does he give much back? What about Trump? He is considered one of the most miserly billionaires in the world.

From 1990 through 2009, Trump has personally donated a total of just $3.7 million to his foundation, which was incorporated in 1987. In fact, the billionaire is not even the largest contributor to his own charitable organization.

http://www.thesmokinggun.com/documents/celebrity/trump-least-charitable-billionaire-109247

Does Toxic Thaksin ring a bell? How about the other billionaires within Thailand? How much do they give? Do they set an example for their countrymen? So, who is going to step up? Hope some start seeing the light, and start manning up soon.

I could not agree more. Politics in the US has descended to the level where only the mediocre are interested in the office of president, congress, and the senate. We no longer have the possibility of highly intelligent and noble people like Bill Richardson or Bill Bradley leading that nation. The media is in too much of a frenzy, the campaign season is far too long, the money involved is insane, and ridiculous, and it is hard to get any traction without either selling out (Hillary) or telling hundreds of lies (Trump), or appealing to the lowest traits within mankind (Trump). Sanders may be a decent man, but his fiscal policies scare a lot of people (me included) and he is probably too decent for the office. It takes a monster, and an ape like Trump to win.

The "Land of Smiles" thing is just a quaint holdover from earlier, happier, better times, now gone, most likely forever as once lost, these things can't be rebuilt. It's poetic, but entirely antiquated, much as some all-in expats would like to try & insist otherwise.

I sense that these kinds of statements are written primarily by ex-pats who have been here for a long time, and live in either Phuket, Samui, Pattaya, or Bangkok. The bigger cities and resort islands have a somewhat different lifestyle. Also, on the southern islands nearly all the local people (if that is what you want to call them, since most of the locals left long ago with the fortunes they made from selling their land) are terribly jaded, and have bad attitudes. And alot of people in the tourist industries are also jaded.

In the smaller towns, and in the provinces, most Thais I run into are very pleasant. Compared to the average person in the US, Europe, OZ, or NZ, they are positively delightful. I find most cheery, friendly, in good humor, and approachable. More than I can say for the West. I also find it has alot to do with what you put out there. If I am friendly, outgoing, smiling, and warm, people tend to treat me in much the same way here in Thailand. Not so in the west.

Both sides have good points. Speaking as a totally assimilated atheistic American Jew, predictably the affiliation my family had as a child was reform. We considered it like a Jewish form of Unitarians ... as close to atheist as you can get (secular humanist) without going there. We knew the reform movement wasn't recognized in Israel and we really didn't care either way.

Jewish is both a religion and and also a culture, ethnicity, etc. Both are needed collectively for the Jewish people to continue to have an identity that isn't completely assimilated away.

When I meet more observant Jews who feel sad to hear I have completely lost that, I understand where they are coming from, not to the point of joining them of course because I'm not feeling it, but their concern about American Jews losing their Jewishness is not without a basis in reality.

Of course some of them, in my view a small minority of Jewish fundamentalists, would assert that if you're an ethnic Jew that's not observant then you're no longer a Jew. That I don't respect as I don't respect intolerant religious fundamentalism from any religion.

That's a beauty of the Israeli state. As a state it does indeed recognize secular Jews as Jews but also values more religious Jews as vital to continuing the Jewish identity and culture. There are internal conflicts but they are resolvable. That's more than I can say about the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

The posts above sound very hostile to Israel and to Jews. Also very ignorant in painting the conflicts as simplistic, black and white, when actually there are many complex layers. I've come to expect that from the Israel demonization agenda which at it's core does not support the right of Israel to exist in the first place. Of course that hostile to Israel agenda would celebrate any perceived internal conflict as a weakness when if you look more closely open discussion of problems (without chopping each other's heads off) can often be a strength.

Cheers, and Am Yisrael Chai.

This is a deep topic, and one that could be discussed for hours on end. I too like you, am a Jew, who renounced his faith. For me, it happened right after my bar mitzvah. I was a strange young kid, who was looking for meaning in life. None of the rabbis I spoke to could ever give me meaningful answers to my spiritual questions. None. Not a single one knew anything about the spiritual side of the faith. They gave me lame answers like "Judaism is basically a social religion", and crap like that. Over and over again. I told my father as soon as my bar mitzvah is over, I am renouncing the faith. He said fine. If that is what I wanted, fine. So, at 13 years old, I was no longer a practicing Jew.

I still relate to the culture, and have alot of friends, and of course family, that are Jewish. I have alot of affection towards the faith, but little respect for it. At least the way it is practiced by the majority of Jews worldwide. I am not an atheist. I am a believer in a higher power. But, I am certain he does not wear long flowing robes, and I am certain he does not have a long Moses type beard. And I am certain this higher power, which I consider to be more of a benevolent force that guides all of creation, is not sitting in judgment of us, nor does this force condone the use of guilt or shame, as an educational tool, or as a means to achieve social order.

So, as far as I am concerned, the more orthodox of the Jews, practice a faith that is not recognized by this force, or God, as they call it. It may be something that makes them feel good, or feel they are living by a set of honor codes, or the like. But, in my heart of hearts I do not believe that any of the orthodoxy nonsense is recognized by any higher spirit of having ANY value whatsoever. None. Nada. Zip. How could a noble God demand that his people separate themselves from him or her, by wearing a yalmuke? Does that make any sense on any level? And yet, many of those very arrogant Jews sit in condemnation of most of us, and our lifestyles. Nonsense I say. By your condemnation alone you are completely missing the point of your faith!

And if Israel truly values Jews of orthodoxy, more than normal Jews, who are not practicing all of the ritualistic nonsense, then perhaps it is a less legitimate state than the current status it maintains, and perhaps there is a good reason why support for that state is eroding amongst liberal and reform Jews worldwide. I myself am indifferent to Israel, and it's existence means very little to me. I have stated this position to many of my Jewish friends in the past, and some find it very offensive. I end up being called a Jew hater for questioning Israeli policy, and occasionally sympathizing with the Palestinian civilians. I mention that Israel considers itself a democracy, and that dialogue is encouraged, right? Oh well, what is a moderate minded individual to do?

It's not just about the crime it's the way they handle it and who handles it when it happens. Perfect example is today's news about the policeman taking a photo under a school girl's dress and getting a 500 baht fine. First the crime happens, then the criminal gets a slap on the wrist, then you discover that the police is protecting it's own . The system is Rotten all the way from start to finish.

While i certainly do not condone with this ridiculous caricature of a policeman did, in the West, the reaction would be extreme. He might be facing five years in prison for something like that. There has to be a balance. Sooner or later, Thailand is going to learn the meaning of law and order. Sooner of later the police force will have to be completely reformed from top to bottom. Sooner or later the judicial system will have to be completely dismantled, and rebuilt from the ground up, to ensure the possibility of impartial judges, and honest prosecutors. As of now, there may only be five of each, in the entire nation. Sooner of later Thailand will have to start behaving like an adult nation, and taking responsibility for it's many shortcomings. Sooner or later. But, it might not be in our lifetime!

I find many Thai people to be more pleasant than their counterparts in the west, by a long shot. Whenever I go back to California, it never ceases to amaze me how sour, disillusioned, bitter, serious and lacking in humor most people are. Not so here. Most Thais are quite lighthearted, jovial, and enjoyable to be around. I think despite what the article says, the quality of life here is pretty damn good.

There are dangers in Bangkok and throughout Thailand. But, they have little to do with the Thai people. I feel very safe here. The Thai people are the last thing in the world I am fearful of. Most are lovely, peaceful, and kind. Sure, there were some dangers during the protests. But, I was wandering around during the height of the recent protests, during the Shutdown Bangkok campaign. I found nearly everyone to be friendly, warm, and gracious. I had no fear, and felt no danger anywhere.

The real dangers here are on the highway, on the sidewalks, on the seas, and most of the dangers here are from things the government could control, if they cared one iota about public safety, and tourist and ex-pat safety. But, they do not. They never have. It is all nothing but jawboning. All talk, and no action makes the little guy in charge, a very dull boy.

When you have places like Bangkok, or Samui, or Phuket, or Chiang Mai, with absolutely nothing in the way of proper zoning, safety standards, inspections, or even competent authorities, to make sure the public and the millions of tourists stay safe, you end up with accidents that could have been avoided. Up to 60 people a month die on the roads of Samui, on motorbikes! It is a very, very dangerous place to visit. That does not count electrocutions, death by "accident", "suicides", or "mysterious deaths". There are countless hazards, and the authorities not only do nothing to protect the tourists, they just don't care. Tourist deaths mean nothing to them. Just look at Dark Tao. All of the southern islands are very dangerous places to visit. The height of the signs on the sidewalks, the condition of the sidewalks, the electric issues, the waste water that is released into the Gulf, the electric wire issue, island wide, the traffic madness, and many more areas need to be addressed.

This goes for nearly all places in Thailand Are they authorities taking notice? No. Why? They just do not care. Their indifference and their callousness is an astonishing thing to witness. Their degree of incompetence with regard to leadership and policing is astonishing. It is all about the money in many areas. Very, very few local people care one iota about tourist safety. Very few. There are exceptions. But so much more could be done to address public safety, and traffic safety. The arrogance and indifference of the government when it comes to the average farang, or the average Thai, is shameful.

In conclusion, I think Thailand is very sate, as long as you pay extra attention while driving, take it easy, keep your eyes open at all times, for any sort of aggressive driver, and use your street smarts.

Well let us hope that a rare thing happens in Thailand. Someone with alot of money gets prosecuted and jailed. It would be one of the few in the past couple of decades, but one can always be hopeful. Maybe the judges are starting to get tired of making excuses for their own weak behavior every time they go out into public. Maybe they are realizing that nothing will ever improve, nothing will ever change, nothing will ever move forward, while they remain completely impotent, and ineffective. Maybe. Just maybe. For some of us, hope never dies!

This may end up being a blessing for Judaism. As far as I am concerned, Israel needs the US support, and the Jewish support in the US, far, far more than the American Jews need Israel. Without the support in the US from the Jews, there is a chance that the massive amount of foreign aid given to Israel will drop. That would be a very positive thing. It would send shock waves throughout the political establishment in Israel, and may allow clowns like Bibi to wean himself from the tit of the ultra orthodox freaks. No form of extremism is healthy for any society. The ultra orthodox, and other super conservative religious elements in Israel are bizarre, otherworldly and not good for society in my opinion. They cannot understand why any Jew would not adopt their completely bizarre lifestyle. They are living on another planet.

I can understand why some Thai's may get put off by the fact that some Indian people do not like to use deodorant. But, that is about it. The vast majority of Indians possess intelligence and creativity and business acumen that most Thais can only dream about having. They are so superior on so many levels, it is almost unfathomable. Indians have been winning Nobel Peace prizes for almost as long as that institution has been in existence, perhaps starting with the brilliant poet Rabindranath Tagore, back in 1913. Then C.V. Raman in 1930 for his cutting edge Physics discoveries. The Amartya Sen in 1998 for his study of economics, and then Kailash Satharthi for his promotion of peace initiatives and the rights of children to have an education. They you have a world class film industry, that creates more films each year than Hollywood. They have a world class tradition of literature, poetry, and culture. Indians have accomplished so much, in such a relatively short period of time, in the fields of Math, Science, Medicine, Technology, etc. The Indian nation has contributed so many brilliant scientists, and doctors to the world at large. How many of those brilliant minds who are improving the world come from Thailand? How many? India was one of the richest countries in the world until the Dutch, and then the British started plundering the country for four centuries, reducing it to one of the poorest countries in the world. That was not of their own making. Their educational system was one of the best in the world, before the British systematically dismantled it over the course of a century, in an effort to dumb down the population. The fact that they have not only been able to recover, but to become one of the world's largest economies, and intellectually productive nations, says alot. There is no yardstick by which the Thai people can even begin to compare themselves to the Indian people, who are vastly superior on so many levels. The same could be said about the Chinese people, especially when it comes to what they have accomplished in terms of productivity and education. Both the Chinese and the Indian educational standards are so much higher, and both nations realize the value of education and put alot of resources into improving it, unlike the Thais, who have failed dismally, when it comes to education their people. Also, both nations overseas, her tutors to make sure their children are outstanding, when it comes to being a student. How many Thais take education that seriously? The Indian nation and it's people have accomplished so much more, and been able to contribute to the world on a level the Thai people could not even consider, nor dream about. This tremendous lack of accomplishment on the world stage, should make any Thai person quite full of humility. But, due to blind nationalism, they can be quite the opposite. Arrogance is not always a bad thing, when it is backed up with substance. But, arrogance when it is not based on anything except political dribble, hyperbole, and false nationalism, is meaningless and an impediment to personal growth. Any Thai landlord should consider themselves honored to have an Indian tenant. Maybe, they could even learn something from them.

The level of ignorance that would lead to a statement like this, about not renting to Indians just boggles the mind. The small mindedness that some Thai people have is staggering. Talk about not knowing your place in the grand scheme of things. In many countries behavior like this would be rewarded with sanctions. Here, it is normal. Even the government commits these kinds of racist, nationalistic acts regularly. Shame on them for being so small minded.

The Thais have alot of lovely qualities. But, their racism and bigotry, and closed mindedness when it comes to the outside world is positively a detriment to Thai society, on so many levels. It really holds them back, as a nation. Surely, there must be a percentage of the population that does not buy into the nonsense. But, far too many do. It is unjustifiable on every level.

Are we talking about the same CV Ramen that went to the university of Calcutta? i thought the Brits destroyed indian education ? seems enhanced if we are talking about the same guy . You may see the Brits as evil occupiers but i believe without the Brits building more schools than India ever had in their history was the reason they had the scholars you mentioned , yeah ...they "stole" billions of minerals that used to only owned by the mahrajas and the like , in return it was invested in what is still a world class rail system, problem is it is so corrupt they still use rolling stock from the 30s , there are probably near 2m Indians in the uk all sending money back to their homeland to support their families still living in poverty and have yet to get electricity to some 100m homes , they also still get 100s of millions in aid from the UK but prefere to have a space programme instead of feeding the poor , the Brits would have electrified India by now if still there imo ,.....a recent poll in india said 60% would welcome the return of British rule to clean up the corruption , the schools also still learn english in a british style education system for those fortunate enough to afford it . I guess what i am saying is the Brits left India in a much better place to go forward but the oppotunity seems to have gone ,....the truth is , Indians smelling has nothing to do with not using deodourent, it's everything to do with their diet which seeps through their skin and to me a disgusting smell as it is to millions of others . I have rented rooms to them once and as so many have learned it ain't good business if you can't rent it again due to the lingering smell, nothing to do with skin colour , my wife is a dark skinned , i find it a turn on ,....unless they smell of course !

On the other hand I see your point in the thais being racist , they are , but like another poster said , i think there is some racism in everyone , it's just how far you take it that matters .

No, the CV Ramen I refer to was from Madras.

Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (7 November 1888 – 21 November 1970), an Indian physicist born in the former Madras Province in India, carried out ground-breaking work in the field of light scattering which earned him the 1930 Nobel Prize for Physics. He discovered that when light traverses a transparent material, some of the deflected light changes in wavelength. This phenomenon, subsequently known as Raman scattering, results from the Raman effect. In 1954 India honoured him with its highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna. He has also been the recipient of a Nobel Peace Prize for his remarkably brilliant discoveries.

This is a fascinating and controversial discussion. On the one hand India benefitted greatly, from their colonization by England, in terms of infrastructure, their international and cosmopolitan view of the world, their english skills, and more. The same argument could be made for Thailand. I have often argued what a benefit it would have been to the nation had they been colonized by one of the Western powers. Certainly they would have become far more aware of the outside world, have learned to speak better english, and hopefully developed a far better educational system, than the one they are presently cursed with. But, would the Thai people have been able to retain their pleasant and lighthearted nature? Maybe not.

On the other hand the systematic plunder that the UK engaged in with India, was staggering. Many forget how wealthy India was prior to this plunder.

Perhaps many of us do not know that India was the richest land till the British came here. Whereas Britain’s share in world exports before was only 9% as against India’s share of 19% today our share is only 0.5%. Most of the foreigners came to India in search of her fabulous wealth. Ernest Wood, in the book “A Foreigner defends Mother India” states, “In the middle of the eighteenth century, Phillimore wrote that ‘the droppings of her soil fed distant regions‘. No traveller found India poor until the nineteenth century, but foreign merchants and adventurers sought her shores for the almost fabulous wealth, which they could there obtain. ‘To shake the pagoda tree’ became a phrase, somewhat similar to our modern expression ‘to strike oil’.”

http://www.sanskritimagazine.com/history/systematic-destruction-education-system-india/

In regard to India's education, the UK was largely responsible for destroying a once great system.

Due to the land policy of the British, born out of their greed, the farmers had become landless labourers in their own lands, and the landlords the cruel stooges of the British. The systematic destruction of the Indian system of education deprived certain castes of education. Thus over a hundred years these castes had become impoverished and ignorant and the Brahmins who were supposed to lead the society became distorted in their understanding of things, due to foreign education.

I have always believed that these "identified" terrorists have but one solid connection to reality......family. Their ties and allegiance to their family are stronger than their Islam ideology. Therefore I always believed that to capture and arrest the terrorist's family members would be an effective strategy at stopping these suicide bombers dead i their tracks.

The CIA or whomever should task themselves with having their family dissappear. I think even Trump eluded to this suggestion earlier.

Absolutely brilliant strategy. It would probably work. Though with the level of brainwashing these clowns receive, it may be a pathological Scientology type syndrome, where they even write off their own family members, for the sake of the cause. But, it would be worth a try.

Would love to see the look on their faces when their younger sisters were being held prisoner, and threatened with being treated in the same manner that they treat women they kidnap and abuse, at random, and with malice. That would be really fun to witness. I, and many people would even pay a fee to watch that either live, or on pay per view. How is that for an alternative funding method to asking congress for permission?

The reality is that with the continued refusal of moderate Muslims in positions of authority and power, to speak out against the extremist worms, the general public worldwide is getting angrier by the day. I fear that we continue heading toward a World War on all Muslims, no matter how moderate they are, down the road. That is why people are continuing to back Trump, no matter how inflammatory his rhetoric becomes. He knows this, and is working it to great advantage. He is a master at manipulating the public, their fears, and their weaknesses.

You could be right. But a war on all Muslims moderate or not is precisely what ISIS wants. They are fundamentalists and they see things in black and white. Moderate Muslims are apostates unless they return to the fundamentalist fold.That's why they bomb the West at every opportunity not just to hurt us but to whip up hatred against all Muslims so they are forced back into fundamentalism and extremism, then they are achieving their dream Muslim state.

ISIS probably would prefer Trump if he carries out his threats to deal to them, the loss of life would translate into martyrs and their strengthen cause. But I don't blame Trump, it was Bush that removed Hussein and created the destabilization of the Middle East. Even Trump said that Hussein should have remained because he killed terrorists and blamed Bush for the war.

I could not agree more, about Iraq. It was single handedly perhaps the greatest foreign policy blunder in the history of the US, and there have been dozens. There was no connection whatsoever, and the Neocon goombahs were merely looking for an easy scapegoat, and they figured in all of their glorious historical and geopolitical ignorance, that they could take over the Iraqi oilfields in the process. That is precisely why they allowed every ministry and institution in the country to be destroyed, except the Oil Ministry. Even the National Museum was destroyed, with the greatest collection of Mesopotamian art the world. Half those treasures have not been recovered, to date. One single tank or armored vehicle parked at the entrance would have been all it took to protect the place. I would venture to guess Cheney has many of those works in his personal collection. Perhaps including the Golden Harp of Samaria, one of the greatest treasures of all. For many of us, there is no doubt those neocon super freaks profited greatly from the war. Great fortunes were made, and much of that money spent was never accounted for. Many, many billions.

The Red Cross estimates as many as 300-400 thousand Iraqi civilians were killed in that senseless war. And they are still being killed, or leaving the country. What for? What was accomplished? Saddam was a pig, but he did keep the place stable. He helped keep the entire region stable. Would the Syrian conflict ever have happened if Saddam was still there? Would ISIS ever have been established if Saddam was still there? The regional destability that was caused by that move is staggering. Cheney and Tiny George II should have been executed for that move alone. I consider many aspects of that war, and the actions leading up to it to be treasonous crimes. What is the punishment for treason?

If you are going to take out a pig like that, take them all out. Both Castro brothers, Mugabe, the entire Boko Harem freak show, all of ISIS, Fat Kim, Hun Sen, Than Shwe, and a few more. Otherwise, leave the world alone, and fix your own problems at home, which are too countless to even begin accounting for.

After being exposed to so many Russian tourists for years, I now find most Chinese tourists to be easy to handle, and rather pleasant to be around. They are usually quite jovial, and if they are a bit loud, who cares? Many Thais are quite loud too. It is all relative. I will take the Chinese over the Russians any day. It is what it is. The Chinese have discovered Thailand, and there is no turning back.

It is unfortunate that with the recent policy shifts (raiding senior citizen bridge games, imposing extremely stiff penalties for overstay, charging more for tourist visas, etc. ) that the government is giving Westerners the impression they are no longer welcome here. At least less welcome than in the past. You cannot substitute a Western tourist, with a Chinese tourist. The Chinese spend far less money. The ignorant folks in the tourism ministry, and immigration do not understand that. Or, they just don't care.

Why don't they just ask all people in the country who have Luk Thep dolls, to ask the dolls for help in this endeavor? They are all powerful, correct?

I have always believed that these "identified" terrorists have but one solid connection to reality......family. Their ties and allegiance to their family are stronger than their Islam ideology. Therefore I always believed that to capture and arrest the terrorist's family members would be an effective strategy at stopping these suicide bombers dead i their tracks.

The CIA or whomever should task themselves with having their family dissappear. I think even Trump eluded to this suggestion earlier.

Absolutely brilliant strategy. It would probably work. Though with the level of brainwashing these clowns receive, it may be a pathological Scientology type syndrome, where they even write off their own family members, for the sake of the cause. But, it would be worth a try.

Would love to see the look on their faces when their younger sisters were being held prisoner, and threatened with being treated in the same manner that they treat women they kidnap and abuse, at random, and with malice. That would be really fun to witness. I, and many people would even pay a fee to watch that either live, or on pay per view. How is that for an alternative funding method to asking congress for permission?

The reality is that with the continued refusal of moderate Muslims in positions of authority and power, to speak out against the extremist worms, the general public worldwide is getting angrier by the day. I fear that we continue heading toward a World War on all Muslims, no matter how moderate they are, down the road. That is why people are continuing to back Trump, no matter how inflammatory his rhetoric becomes. He knows this, and is working it to great advantage. He is a master at manipulating the public, their fears, and their weaknesses.

Sanders is absolutely correct to not publicize his Judaism. Many Americans are not ready for that. And the fact that many Jews are offended by that means little. Jews are typically very, very thin skinned both in the US and in Israel. Any perceived slight is a big offense to them. Most of it is just made up, and in their minds. I say that as man who was born into the Jewish faith, but does not practice the religion, much like Sanders. I have been often criticized for not having absolute faith and adherence to American Jewish policy, and for often NOT backing Israeli policy. I have been black listed by some of my Jewish friends, and have often been called a "Jew Hater" for not having absolute allegiance to Judaism, and I am anything but a hater of anyone. Except maybe trump, fat kim, castro, mugabe, all members of ISIS, and Al Queda, and the Ayatollah.

Where is Donald Trump when you need him?

I am still wondering why the present US Government has not sent a mole to spy & destroy this little man and everything he represents since his idea of unity and a modern path to enlightenment for all Thai's is a repressive regime trying to make friends with the likes of Russia. (Nice Trip)

To him and his ilk forming some type of oligarchy for him and his Coup Makers makes sense (They can learn a lot from Russia)

How about a "Tribunal" at the Hague for these guys and stop worrying about Thaksin being Arrested?

They have and are doing a hundred times more damage to the future of Thailand vs. his Property / Civil Case could have ever done.

They are leading and will continue to lead Thailand down a very Dangerous Path.

It has always been my guess that the CIA volunteered to take on this task, many years ago, and perhaps since. Even though he was allied with Bush and his cronies, they knew what a problem he was going to become, when he was exiled. I am sure they offered their services, and I am just as sure that the Thai authorities said something like, "Don't concern yourselves. We are on top of this. We will not let it get to the point where he becomes a problem to the nation. We have things under control, and have considered the many ramifications his exile could create. We are being proactive. If he misbehaves, we will have him repatriated, and he will face trial here".

And the Americans went back to the office rolling their eyes. How many times have we heard this before? A Thai government being proactive? Can you even imagine such a thing? Planning? Consideration of future events? Heading off problems BEFORE they occur? Absolutely, positively unthinkable, in the LOS.

The world of political has become much more blurred and murky as globalization increases the complexities. So, really anything is possible these days.

As the current Thai government move closer to China and Russia in response to a cooling from the US and its allies, Thaksin becomes a more attractive prospect for the US. His extensive Carlisle Group and Wall St. connections, his past willingness to try and push favorable treaties through; his demonstrated willingness to ignore or change laws when it suits and his very ruthless end justifies the means attitude. All would be appreciated by the "establishment" in the West.

He would be a very good fit with a Clinton administration - same very very wealthy family background, allegations of dubious activities, propensity for lying regularly, and ability to claim to be a democrat and supporter of the poor and keep a straight face whilst screwing everyone.

The US backs ex terrorists like Hun Set, and has a history of supporting corrupt dictators when it suits. Thaksin should fit right in.

blah, blah blah, ....

you never tire of your anti-US, conspiracy theories... ?

yawn.

Hard to really question much of what Baerboxer said. Do you take exception to his premise that the US was partial to toxic thaksin partly due to the fact that he had the connection alleged here? Not too far fetched, or hard to believe. This is not exactly what I would describe as earth shaking conspiracy theory. He did ignore alot of law, and he was ruthless. Clinton is bought and paid for on so many levels, much the same as toxic was. And the US does back whoever is convenient, including an awful lot of murderous despots like Hun Sen. I am an American, so I can relate to some of what he is saying. The US foreign policy of the past 50 years or so, is quite a rich story, and chock full of all kinds of scandal and conspiracy, and misguided decisions. Is it not?

Where is Donald Trump when you need him?

I am still wondering why the present US Government has not sent a mole to spy & destroy this little man and everything he represents since his idea of unity and a modern path to enlightenment for all Thai's is a repressive regime trying to make friends with the likes of Russia. (Nice Trip)

To him and his ilk forming some type of oligarchy for him and his Coup Makers makes sense (They can learn a lot from Russia)

How about a "Tribunal" at the Hague for these guys and stop worrying about Thaksin being Arrested?

They have and are doing a hundred times more damage to the future of Thailand vs. his Property / Civil Case could have ever done.

They are leading and will continue to lead Thailand down a very Dangerous Path.

It has always been my guess that the CIA volunteered to take on this task, many years ago, and perhaps since. Even though he was allied with Bush and his cronies, they knew what a problem he was going to become, when he was exiled. I am sure they offered their services, and I am just as sure that the Thai authorities said something like, "Don't concern yourselves. We are on top of this. We will not let it get to the point where he becomes a problem to the nation. We have things under control, and have considered the many ramifications his exile could create. We are being proactive. If he misbehaves, we will have him repatriated, and he will face trial here".

And the Americans went back to the office rolling their eyes. How many times have we heard this before? A Thai government being proactive? Can you even imagine such a thing? Planning? Consideration of future events? Heading off problems BEFORE they occur? Absolutely, positively unthinkable, in the LOS.

Always migrant workers committing these crimes against foreigners. The Thai men are very well behaved and do not do bad things. Especially in places like Dark Tao.

The reality is, that some of the Thai men committing these crimes are above the law, such as the mass killer on Tao, who continues plying his trade of serial killing. And some are simply being protected by a government and tourist authority, who refuse to acknowledge that at least part of the problem is home grown.

Thankfully, the reality is that there are still a very low number of violent crimes being committed by Thais against foreigners. Many of us are very grateful for this, and hope the trend continues. Not like in the Philippines, or Mexico, or Central America, where murder is far more common. The vast majority of the murders here are Thai on Thai.

Trump on his tax issues:

However, Trump conceded, “I try and pay as little tax as possible, because I hate what they do with my tax money. I hate the way they spend our money.”

In terms of taxes, Trump has said, “I know people making a tremendous amount of money and paying virtually no taxes, and I think it's unfair.”

Trump's response was that he'd love to release his beautiful, classy tax returns, but that he can't because he is being audited, a problem which, I'm willing to wager, will conveniently make it impossible for him to release them until sometime after November 8.

And the content of Trump's returns is a legitimate issue: It's a standard rite of passage for presidential candidates to release their tax returns as an exercise in transparency and for policing conflicts of interest. It'd certainly be interesting to see what sort of tax rate Trump pays and what sort of estate planning he has engaged in. (Remember Romney's absurd $100 million IRA?) How much money did he make on businesses, such as his Trump University, that were built on fraud?

Is this guy kidding? Is there a single person in this country who takes this man seriously? Is it possible they could have found a less competent man, for his position? I mean, if they searched the nation, looking for someone less competent, could they have found a person to fit that bill?

Personally, he said hopes Thaksin will loves his home country because he is a Thai. Would someone with an IQ of over 65 actually say something like that? Or was it his 4 year old son who was actually quoted? What a goombah.

Thaksin should have been repatriated to Thailand years ago, arrested, tried, and sent to prison. He has been nothing but a trouble maker, and there is nobody to blame except for multiple Thai administrations, for this. Sloth, and unwillingness to take him to task has resulted in a man who will never stop making problems for his nation, until the day he dies. He is the very opposite of a patriot. He cares nothing for his nation, and it's people. It is all about him. Only him. You know who he reminds me of? Trump. He has that petty and arrogant quality that defines Trump. Maybe they are related?

Erdogan has become a megalomaniacal super freak. He is a comical figure. He is a despot in the mold of Hun Sen, and Than Shwe, in our own neighborhood. Does anybody take anything this goon says seriously? He is an embarrassment to his people. A tiny man, with an even smaller heart and mind. He has been in power too long. He needs to be removed, and replaced by a person who is competent, and reasonable. He is a worm. He is a desperate man, that seems to be capable of saying or doing anything at this point in time. What a loser.