Surasak

On 5/27/2025 at 11:15 PM, Tuco Ramirez said:

Open your eyes, Han.

 

Thailand ain't all that..

 

That's why everyone is going to Vietnam. 

SO! Why are you still here?? Give us a break,  PLEASE??!!

1 hour ago, BerndD said:

 

Thailand is not a 3rd world country, (YES, by the way they treat their own people),  It is officially a Emerging Country, and so it should create better living conditions, where it is necessary.  I fully agree with your comment.

 

 

Emerging from what? In many cases as seen across the country it is still Neanderthal, say the wrong thing or look the wrong way and get beaten to death. 

On 5/26/2025 at 9:24 AM, Ralf001 said:

if there was no smart phones I'd be walking round with a tablet in my pocket !

 

For the head aches no doubt?

Stuck with one of these perhaps?

On 5/26/2025 at 10:23 AM, JoePai said:

Fair enough but when you complete your Tax return................... ?

When Thai Immigration first asked for Embassy Letters of confirmation of income, foreigners were NOT required to submit tax returns!

How then was it possible to imply, it was done for tax purposes??? I suggest you go back under your bridge and have another think on your postings.

17 hours ago, Baht Simpson said:

So, they lowered the duty and people started buying more.  Did they not see that happening?

 

 

"Did they not see that happening"? ....... Would they ever? More to the point, they went looking for the problems and trouble it would cause. Then obviously found it.

18 hours ago, Surasak said:

Just a thought. While sat waiting in IMMI, watch the comings and goings. An agent is usually quite easy to spot.

I have to assume, whomever posted the thumbs down, is not so very observant?

11 hours ago, Tiger1980 said:

Yes, while Milliband is in charge of the zero energy policy, however at the next GE the good people of Doncaster will definitely kick him out.

Let us hope that many others have learnt by their mistake?

17 hours ago, SpaceKadet said:

My country requires me to apply in person, and pick it up in person. That's because all new passports contain a biometric chip that has your photo and fingerprints digitized. The embassy does the photo and fingerprints when you apply. How does you agent process that? Or does UK still issue non biometric passports?

 

The only hassle was the travel to BKK to apply, and HuaHin to pick it up. But BKK trip is always fun, getting a few booze nights with my buddies there, and HH is good for shopping (according to Mrs), so no real hassle.

I cannot be in the know for every countries passport requirements. Had there been any problems with mine, I feel sure the passport application would have been refused.

17 hours ago, HappyExpat57 said:

Chanthaburi is a real backwater city. I believe the IO when she says there are no agents here.

You are there and I am here, so I'll keep quiet.

17 hours ago, proton said:

 

309 quid is not to like, its only 207 to get one the same day back home. 

Plus the flights and other travel and accommodation expenses. I don't see a mug when I look in the mirror, but I have to wonder what you see!?

While SILLY Milliband has his fingers in the pie, Trump might just as well whistle into the wind.

13 hours ago, Social Media said:

 

Trump Urges Starmer to Abandon Wind Power in Favor of North Sea Oil

 

Donald Trump has called on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to ditch his government’s support for wind energy and instead focus on ramping up fossil fuel extraction in the North Sea. In a typically outspoken post on his TruthSocial platform, the U.S. president suggested that the United Kingdom should move away from what he described as “costly and unsightly windmills” and embrace offshore oil drilling to reduce its energy bills.

 

“Our negotiated deal with the United Kingdom is working out well for all,” Trump wrote, referring to the recently finalized trade agreement between the two countries. “I strongly recommend to them, however, that in order to get their energy costs down, they stop with the costly and unsightly windmills, and incentivize modernized drilling in the North Sea, where large amounts of oil lay waiting to be taken.”

 

Trump claimed that there is “a century of drilling left” and proposed Aberdeen as a strategic hub for this renewed fossil fuel effort. He also took aim at the UK’s existing tax system, saying it discourages drilling activity. “The old fashioned tax system disincentivizes drilling, rather than the opposite. UK’s Energy Costs would go WAY DOWN, and fast!” he added.

 

His comments come at a time when the UK is seeing some relief in energy prices. Ofgem, the UK’s energy regulator, recently announced a 7 percent decrease in household energy bills starting in July. This means the average annual bill will drop by £129 to £1,720.

 

Despite the decrease, energy costs remain substantially higher than in previous years. Ofgem noted that the level of bills in July will still be £152 more than during the same period last year. The regulator has also encouraged consumers to shop around, with some households potentially saving up to £200 a year by switching to cheaper tariffs.

 

Trump’s comments are likely to stir political debate in the UK, where energy policy is a key part of the Labour government’s strategy to transition toward net-zero emissions. Starmer’s administration has supported a mix of renewable energy sources, including wind and solar, as part of its broader climate agenda. However, with energy prices remaining high and North Sea reserves still substantial, Trump’s remarks may resonate with those advocating for greater energy independence and lower costs.

 

As the energy conversation continues, Trump’s remarks have injected a provocative new angle, challenging the UK's green ambitions with a blunt call to return to fossil fuels.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Times  2025-05-24

 

 

2 hours ago, HappyExpat57 said:

I believe like in anything life throws at you, there are good and bad agents. I've used an outfit that has been around for years. I am a legitimate retiree with the money well seasoned who just does NOT want to be bothered dealing with immigration.

 

I'm currently living in Chanthaburi and asked the IO if they have any agents here. She replied no and that she had never heard of the concept of agents, so I am having to deal with their petty demands each effing year. They always seem to find a reason to make it a chore. I look forward to moving back to Jomtien where I can resume using my favorite agent.

Just a thought. While sat waiting in IMMI, watch the comings and goings. An agent is usually quite easy to spot.

2 hours ago, DrJack54 said:

I already answered it. 

Many things agents can do without any downside apart from fee. 

Passport renewal would be good example esp for those living outside of Bangkok and CM. 

Good eg is UK passport in particular. 

I used an agent to renew my UK passport last April. The lack of hassle was worth every penny I paid, which was £309.00, including the passport cost. All done in 3 weeks. What's not to like?

On 5/22/2025 at 8:43 PM, swissie said:

I am starting to feel a bit uneasy. More and more "financial advisors" pushing Gold as a uncontested "store of value", a "safe harbor". The "can't lose" syndrome making the rounds.

 

Those financial advisors forgetting to mention, that Gold has gone thru "bear markets". The last one lasting from July 2011 to December 2015. From $ 1830 down to $ 1060. Not sure if Gold holders considered Gold as a store of value during this time.

 

Let's face it, Gold is a metal (a commodity if you will) it's value measured in US$ daily. Supply and demand, just like in any other commodity.

 

I find it disturbing that increasingly financial advisors are recommending Gold to small investors as a "can't lose" investment.

Each to their own. Its not a 'can't lose', commodity admittedly, but an average of 20+% yearly in crease,  is better than my present bank savings. Strange to say I was refused a £20000 Bullion purchase, last week. No explanation, just a sorry, we can't help you.

Use 'Mytello'. Cheap as chips.

10 hours ago, webfact said:

Reference picture courtesy of Defense Security Ais

 

Thailand's ambitious submarine project has hit another snag, casting further doubt on its future. The plan to install German MTU 396 engines in China's Yuan-class submarine has floundered, as Thailand's Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, found his efforts to secure the engines thwarted by EU restrictions.

 

These restrictions prevent the export of military equipment to China, given Germany's obligations within the EU and NATO.

 

Previously, the Thai Navy opted for a substitute Chinese engine and accepted compensation following the delays caused by the pandemic and engine procurement challenges.

 

The submarine deal was originally inked in 2017, costing Thailand a hefty 13.9 billion baht. However, progress has barely moved beyond 64% completion, even with China pocketing payments totalling 7.7 billion baht.

 

Despite ongoing negotiations, a viable solution for the German engine issue remains elusive, leading to indefinite project delays. As the end-of-2023 contract deadline looms, estimates hint at postponements extending as far as fiscal year 2027.

 

With construction setbacks exacerbated by the need for a 1,270-day contract extension, Thailand's naval ambitions are treading water.

 

Meanwhile, the Thai Navy shifts focus towards two new frigates, eyeing a five-year, 35-billion-baht budget. Opposition MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn argues for deriving domestic economic benefits from these frigates, advocating for the use of local resources and the establishment of an offset policy to spur economic growth.

 

Reports suggest economic burdens might limit the budget allocation to just one frigate in the coming fiscal year. Yet, experts assert that building two frigates simultaneously would enhance cost efficiency and facilitate invaluable technology transfers.

 

Frigates play a crucial role in safeguarding Thailand's maritime interests, and with one frigate soon set for decommissioning, time is of the essence.

 

Wiroj insists on a phased budget approach to alleviate potential fiscal strain, allowing incremental financial injections over multiple years. This prudent strategy ensures the frigate acquisition aligns with Thailand's financial capabilities without compromising long-term economic and tactical advantages.

 

The Thai industrial sector backs the frigate project, eager to contribute at least 30% in local content to the ships' construction. By harnessing domestic industry expertise, Thailand aspires to strengthen its defence capabilities while fostering technological innovation and economic development within its borders.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-21

 

 

Reminds of the film title, 'Above us the Waves'? Has this thing ever been below the waves?

1 hour ago, hotchilli said:

For children from poor families, broken marriages or for other reasons school is just plain un-affordable.

Anutin is out-of touch.

 

He is out of his mind. Why do these people always, but always praise there education system as if it is faultless, when in all honesty it is totally useless in the majority of cases. There are of course exceptions, but they are few and far between. I don't teach and have never attempted to, but some of the things one hears from those who do, you have to wonder why they bother. Although there are those who have to, to substitute their income. But even they would possibly throw in the towel, due to some of the abuse they have to suffer. And that not from the kids, but the teachers they have to 'work' with.

I got TIN in late March. Didn't go to the tax office my self, my son did it all. I provided my gross income and the UK tax details. All taken care of in twenty minutes. NO TAX TO PAY.

I also did a cash transfer of 44000B last Thursday 15th May, NO PROBLEMS with my UK bank!

Never heard of LineMan. I'll stick with Grab, and always ordered by one of my Thai family members.

55 minutes ago, BeastOfBodmin said:

Here's hoping the probing is harsh and unrelenting.

OH! Look, there's a flight of pigs going over!

4 hours ago, KireB said:

My t-shirts cost around 800 baht,

Someone sees you coming!  Mine are only 450 Baht and that is for triple XL.

1 hour ago, LittleBear57 said:

Micheal Fish springs to mind.

October 15th 1987, a Wednesday night as I remember?

On 5/10/2025 at 9:57 AM, MarkBR said:

Could also be UK where there are individuals who vote for Farage.

Farage is a protest vote, something that needed to happen. Reform have a  lot of work to do to prove themselves, and 4 years is not a long time. They are in a position of trial in 10 local councils. All of them will be required to show real improvements, for the party to be accepted as a credible alternative to both Labour and Conservative.

16 hours ago, connda said:

Still can't have a beer on the beach between 2pm to 5pm.  Freaking stupid rules.  And as people get fed up and figure there are other places to go, it will be...

GOOD MORNING VIETNAM!!!

 

And then the weeping..."We don't understand.  Why does Vietnam get so many tourist who used to come to Thailand." 😢

I'll take a shot at that - They can have a beer on the beach between 2pm and 5pm and the entire Thai cultural isn't "SHOCKED, SHOCKED I SAY BY BAD TOURISTS" whom they now want to be kicked out of their country. 

Headline News: "Foreigner Sits On Sacred Wall."
Confused Tourist: "It's just a bunch of bricks."
Thais: "WE'RE SHOCKED!  SHOCKED!!!!  KICK ALL FOREIGNER OUT!!!"

Headline News: "Foreigner Leans Against Sacred Tree."
Confused Tourist: "The tree out in the middle of nowhere has a ribbon around it.  I leaned against to get out of the heat."
Thais: "WE'RE SHOCKED!  SHOCKED!!!! BAD BAD FARANGS.  KICK THEM OUT!"

Headline News: "Foreigner Drinks Beer On Beach At 3PM.  Arrested By Police!"
Confused Tourist: "I was drinking beer in Vietnam on the beach at 3PM last week.  What's this stupid Thai law? I didn't even know there was a law!"
Thais: "WE'RE SHOCKED!  SHOCKED!!!! BAD DRUNK FARANGS DISRESPECT THAI SACRED BEACH WITH AFTERNOON BEER.  GET RID OF THEM!"

I have to ask. A man collapses due to heat exhaustion but there is no drinkable water available. However, there are two bottles of Leo. Unfortunately it is 3pm.........?