ableguy

I agree that it probably a tax issue with the owner. It is not illegal as far as I am aware as a 'lease premium' or 'goodwill' 'key money' payment is relatively common and has no or little bearing on economic reality. It happens with school entry fees in much the same way here although termed as something else.

Can you be more specific about what the 'business' is? since if you are just renting premises from this party it may be best to just relocate and put a lot more attention in to securing a better deal at a new location.

Whilst this up front payment may be expected at a new site, many landlords are sitting on empty units as Pattaya is awash with these shophouses (mostly derelict) and you can quite easily remove all your fixtures and fittings and transplant them elsewhere.

Threats in Pattaya are to be expected, and take heed as they can be obstructive in many ways (cutting electricity, smashing windows etc) and you will have little or no recourse. Suffice to say that you will not likley ever get your deposit back now or in another 3 years, so factor that in to any decsion you make at this stage.

HI and thank you for reply.

It is a Restaurant on which i have spent 2 mil baht to renew two years ago.

I guess will be best to pay the key money and try to sell the business to someone else, recoverig what is possible.

I told him this morning that i might pay the key money, in the next two or three days, but i will also try to sell the business to someone private and then the new "Buyer, Business owner" will sign a new contract with the thai owner.

This Thai owner, wants to know how much i want to sell it for, and when i told him 2 mil baht, he said to me he will give me 500,000 to get out of of the restaurant.

Very strange, he must have understood that he can sell it for more.

Not strange at all he just wants to bleed you dry and wait for the next helpless farang.

Well, that is one way to bring about 'national Reconciliation"

Set up so-called control centers against the electoral majority.

This Abhisit/Suthep trumpetting of violence potential is not about "violence". It is all about demonizing the Democracy Movement of which they are not a part. Implying possible violence suggests their might be violence, right......Political point made and demonization achieved for those unfamiliar or not politically astute enough to see through this facade. Especially when their English language Media will fall right in line and affirm their political comfort level

I can just hear all the diatribes my defense of the "Red Shirt Democracy Movement" will incite. But isn't that what makes a political discussion board interesting. Everyone trumpetting for one side of this political divide, with the only variation being their individual creativity in doing so is boring.....Right?

All this stuff about violence that Abhisit/Suthep propagate, is so incongruous with reality. It is pure politics.

Reality is the nature of these people who apparently need "control Centres". When Farang's attend the events of this Democracy Movement. one is struck by the adulation they receive. It is a real ego boost for Farangs. There is slapping on the back, vigorous hand-shakes, smiles a mile wide, etc. I am not sure why this is so. I can only speculate that these people appreciate the affirmation of their cause by farangs who come from traditional Democracies. Another factoid I dont understand, is that 80% of this movement is made up of women.

Then I read all this political posturing about violence from the Abhisit/Suthep side of the political divide, and it all seems so fabricated, so purely political. I can just imagine scenes of all these women rising up in a paroxysms of Violence .

Also, focussing on the Norh and NE....what a way to build political support where there is none. What about those huge Bangkok numbers that swell Red Shirt Democracy Movement rallies of 100,000 and more...in fact doubling them.

Isn't there a better way?

Allright guys, lets hear it about Songkran...the only hook you can hang your hat on, albeit a hook that was defined for you by the domestic media. That paragon of balanced political reportage.

So, does that stir the pot a little?

(47 rai)

WHAT A CROCK OF SH.......

Here are some great tips for personal safety in Thailand:

Overall, Thailand is a safe nation in which to travel. Physical attacks and other crimes against individuals are far less likely than in many other developed nations. Just as you need to be aware of your surroundings and personal safety when out and about in your home country, you need to keep your wits about you in Thailand as well. The following represents good advice in regard to many aspects of personal safety and security to be considered during your time in the Kingdom. Be mindful of this advice and it may help reduce an already low probability of encountering any trouble.

When considering your personal safety common sense precautions still reign supreme - just like anywhere else.

Specific concerns:

Accommodation: When you first check-in to your room, do a quick security and safety inspection. Does the peep hole work? Is the bolt lock or safety chain working? Do you know where and how far away the emergency exit(s) are? Is there a smoke alarm? Do any windows that open to the outside have a functional locking mechanism?

Do not leave valuables in your room. It is not good enough simply to lock (or hide) valuable items and money in your suitcase. Passports, cash, cameras, and so on should always be kept secured either in the room safe provided, or in the main hotel safety box usually available at hotel reception. Even during a short absence from the room for breakfast lock up or carry anything you can't afford to lose. Keep your door locked at all times and make use of the spy-hole and safety door chain before opening the door to anyone.

Most hotels offer business cards written in both Thai and English. Keep one with you in the event that you can't clearly communicate your destination to a taxi driver. If your hotel only has cards in English, ask a staff member to write the name, address and phone numbers in the Thai language on a card for you.

Beaches and Swimming: It is not advisable to frequent deserted beach areas. You should never put yourself in a position where you can't be seen or heard by others should an emergency arise or you need assistance. nud_e and topless bathing are frowned upon in Thailand, and showing a lack of modesty could unfortunately be misinterpreted by others as a statement of your own level of morality and intentions - be aware of your dress. When you are in more remote or very quiet areas, you should consider your options for seeking assistance should an unlikely event like a robbery or assault occur or you become injured.

Most Thai beaches do not have lifeguard protection. Be aware of posted signs indicating no swimming areas, areas of rip current, areas of undertow and where swimming is otherwise dangerous. Of course, you should never swim alone.

Late night walks on poorly or dimly lit and isolated beaches are also not a good idea. In the busier areas you may encounter other nuisances such as drunks, prostitutes, thieves, muggers etc.

Sunscreen: Never underestimate the power of the Thai sun. Summer or winter overexposure will burn you badly and do irreparable damage to your skin. Between the hours of 10am and 3pm UV rays (the ultraviolet rays that give skin damage or worse) are at their strongest.

Wear a hat, wear wrap type sunglasses with EPF10 (eye protection factor), wear a strong SPF factor water-resistant sunscreen. Reduce your exposure to the sun to short bursts. Permanent skin damage starts to occur after 15 minutes. The tropical sun is not to be trifled with, do not underestimate it.

Drink Water: Keep yourself hydrated at all times, safe bottled drinking water is available everywhere, it's cold and it's cheap. Carry a bottle of water with you at all times, don't underestimate the risks of dehydration.

Taxis: Bangkok meter taxis are a very safe mode of transport and operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Presenting yourself with an air of confidence, knowing that the meter must start at THB35 and be prepared to get out and take another taxi if not. Do not engage the driver in unnecessary conversation. If needed, repeat your destination confidently, clearly, slowly, and politely. Do not take taxis parked by hotels or tourist attractions, there are so many that it is far better to flag down a passing taxi.

*Note for women: Nearly all taxi drivers are men. If you feel more comfortable with a female driver you may wish to call and arrange with Julie's Taxi Service. Julie's has a selection of drivers including female drivers that can be arranged for you in advance.

Women who like to dress-up in an overtly-sexual manner for those big nights out, should be aware that unfortunately this may be misinterpreted by some as a statement of your own level of morality and intentions. In the circumstance where you need to catch a taxi home late at night by yourself, the following advice was offered on the Thai forum by a female member:

"Don't wear anything too sexy, Thai men do like to stare at us foreigners, and so just wear modest clothing. I always carry a button shirt to throw on if I'm going to be catching a cab. Don't talk to them if you can help it, just be sharp and direct with your words, dont UMm and Ahh with them. If you know where you want to go just tell them clearly and loudly, then sit back and if they ask any questions pretend you don't understand."

Tuk Tuk: It's part of the Thai experience to try a tuk tuk at least once, however as a general rule, it's best to avoid them as a primary means of transportation. If you must use a tuk tuk, unlike a taxi, you have to negotiate the fare to your destination first, and don't pay until your safe arrival. Do not let them take you to tailors, gem stores, or anywhere else that you didn't ask to go. Do not let them talk you into sightseeing, and other special sites.

Eating out: To avoid a surprise bill, avoid any restaurant or bar that doesn't clearly display or otherwise quote their prices. It is perfectly ok to ask a street vendor or other merchant, prices before ordering. Once you've consumed it, you've bought it - so be aware of the prices beforehand.

Day/Back Packs - Handbags - Shoulder Bags: There have been incidents of bag snatchers on motorbikes. Keep your bag clutched tightly and securely to your side when walking. In crowded conditions, consider wearing your day-pack in front of you instead of on your back. Be aware of persons who may innocently bump into you as a means to distract you.

Carrying Cash: Pickpockets are not common but they do exist. Take the usual precautions with wallets, purses, and day packs. Do not flash your cash, be discreet when opening your wallet/purse to pay for something. You can learn a lot by watching Thai people, they are often very discreet when reaching for their cash, almost to the point of being secretive. Splitting up your money can be a good idea. Carry a small amount of instant access cash in your preferred receptacle, and carry the balance (along with your credit cards), in a more secure place (money belt, hidden pocket, in your shoes, etc).

Jewellery: Best advice? Do not bring it, if possible. However, if you must wear expensive jewellery, do so discreetly. When riding motorbikes or in the back of songtaews, keep your necklace tucked well inside your clothing, or better yet, leave it in your hotel room safe. Thieves are very adept at snatching these items from your neck, and while in motion. This is not uncommon, in busy areas, it is indiscriminate - Thai people are just as likely to be the victims of this type of theft.

ATMs: When practical try to use ATMs that are inside a bank or inside a secured building. If you must use one in a shopping mall or street make sure you cover the keypad (with your other hand) as your enter your PIN and do not walk away counting your cash.

Credit Card Fraud: Fraud exists in Thailand, as in any other country. If you must pay by credit card, never let your card out of your sight. Watch as it's used, and double check the purchase amount and currency, before signing or entering your pin number. Once you sign the receipt, in most cases you are accepting and agree to pay that amount.

Clubs, Pubs and Parties: Most importantly never leave your drink unattended, never accept a drink from a stranger or recent acquaintance. Drink Spiking - the act of covertly adding chemicals or drugs to your drink - is not unheard of and the consequences speak for themselves. Similarly don't leave your cash and valuables unattended. Be aware of your alcohol consumption, try not to overindulge and not be able to safely make your way home. It's possible that someone may be watching and assessing how easy a target you'd make.

Party Drugs: Do not accept drugs in any shape or form, at any time or for any reason. Apart from never really knowing what substance you are actually ingesting, you should seriously consider the possibility that any offers of drugs may in fact be a undercover Police operation. Punishments for the possession, distribution or use of even small quantities of illegal substances are extremely severe.

Possession also includes being under the influence of drugs. Police have the power to order urinalysis (urine analysis) drug screening, the results of which can be used as evidence against you in any future criminal prosecution and form the basis for your arrest for possession. It is not unknown for the Royal Thai Police to conduct enforcement raids on bars and clubs where party drugs are suspected, and order mass searches and screenings of all patrons - both Thai and foreigners alike - without exception.

There are reports of corrupt Police officers using tourists caught with drugs - in any amount - as a means to extort large sums of money in exchange for releasing them without arrest or criminal charge.

New Friends: While Thailand is the Land of Smiles, you really should be cautious of any stranger who approaches you, irrespective of their nationality. Encounters such as these can potentially lead to you becoming the victim of a scam or con artist. Do not simply trust a stranger based solely on the fact that they're from your home country. Con artists of all nationalities are out there scheming and cheating their way through life. Thai people can be very helpful and accommodating when asked, however it is not a normal Thai custom to approach strangers and offer unsolicited advice or assistance.

Games and Wagering: Do not get involved in card games, gambling, cockfights, pool-table games for money etc. Even though widely practised by law, with the exception of the national Thai State Lottery and the occasional Horse Racing event, gambling in any form is illegal.

Touts: Do not let a tout or stranger lead you away from, or to, a location other than your intended one. Claims of "not open to foreigners", "closed today for ... ", "special deal" etc is your clue to ignore them. Do not buy gemstones unless you are qualified to know their value, and can judge good quality from poor.

Tickets and such: At bus stations and train stations, always ignore touts and go directly to the Official ticket seller's window. In many cases, tickets for Muay Thai boxing and movies sold thru unofficial channels are invalid and/or forgeries. Airline tickets are never transferable from one person to another and must be purchased either directly from the airline or an authorised agent.

Where Are You?: Always be aware of your surroundings, and be mindful of how you would describe your exact location in an emergency situation. Make a note of the Thai Tourist Police generic phone number which is 1155 and add it to your cell phone speed dial list. The Thai Tourist Police is a special arm of the National Royal Thai Police and specifically trained to deal with common situations involving a non-resident tourist. Many speak basic and passable English.

If you are confronted with any situation where trustworthy assistance is not close at hand, dial the number!

Moving Around at Night: Obviously avoiding dimly lit and seemingly uninhabited areas is good personal safety practise. Stay in well lit areas, where there are lots of people. Any place that gives you an initial, serious feeling of unease is best avoided.

Embassy and Consular Assistance: It is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the emergency contact details of your home country's Embassy or Diplomatic representation in Bangkok. This link lists most Consulates & Embassies in Bangkok. Note the emergency contact details for urgent after hours Consular assistance. Some examples of where that emergency call goes, are;

AUSTRALIA: Call the Embassy on 02 344 6300 and select option 1 to be transferred to the 24 hour Consular Emergency Centre in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra, Australia.

UNITED KINGDOM: In the event of a consular emergency involving a life or death situation, call the switchboard number 02 305 8333.

UNITED STATES: You may contact the Embassy switchboard 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 02 205 4000. Ask to speak to the Duty Officer who can and will assist with all after hours emergencies. This includes, but is not limited to, emergency hospitalisation, loss of passport, arrest or serious injury.

Register yourself: Many Country's Foreign Affairs Departments offer online registration of your overseas trip. Take a few moments to register your travel plans, so that your whereabouts and contact information are known in case of natural disasters, accidents, etc. This also allows your next of kin to be contacted in a timely manner, should the need arise. This is a free and voluntary service and only serves to help you should an emergency arise while in the country.

Carrying Your Passport: It is required by Thai law that Thai citizens AND all visitors MUST carry proper identification at all times. This must be presented upon demand by a Police Officer or other legitimate Government Official.

Note that is not always safe, practical or appropriate to carry your physical passport on you at all times. Passports are a very valuable commodity that can be the target of theft and are very expensive to replace while overseas. Consider keeping your passport locked in your room safe or the primary hotel safe at the reception desk while at each destination.

Do make several photocopies of your passports photo/details page, as well as the stamped arrivals card that is stapled in your passport that you received when entering Thailand. Carry these copies with you in your day-pack. These will assist in establishing your identity and immigration status when you don't have your physical passport on you.

Also consider making a colour scanned copy and having it laminated. If you produce that to an Official when required to, in many cases this will satisfy the identification requirement, or at least suffice until your actual passport can be collected from your accommodation for verification.

It is never recommended that you surrender your passport when hiring a vehicle or similar situation. If a service provider such as a motor scooter rental business is unwilling to accept a photocopy of your passport, move on and try someone else. Every hotel will photocopy your passport at check-in and make a note of your visa (or visa exemption) details. Remember that your single most important document that you have while overseas is your passport - guard it well.

If you plan on applying for a visa while in Bangkok, for other countries in the region such as Vietnam, you will be required to temporarily surrender your passport for a day or two while your visa is in process. You should only surrender your passport directly to the Embassy staff or through a reputable agent, if not in Bangkok. Either way, you should request a receipt for your passport and note its details.

Thailand is a fun place with lots to see and experience and for the most part tourists come and have a wonderful time. Do remember that trouble doesn't take a vacation and that you do need to be actively aware of your surroundings and situations - just like you'd do in any other city or even at home.

having read this if you follow everything suggested you wont have time to do anything else better stay at home.

Can't U guys read anything between the lines? Phuket is the first place anywhere in Thailand I ever had to pay a Bribe to get something done on my passport, It was not very much, but it was a real eye opener, There was a special fee and no place to gain understanding of it, a long line of Ferang waiting to get this stamp and pay the special fee.

That this guy would be transferred and so close to his retirement, is a real indication that somebody somewhere is trying to do some clean up in a much needed area, about time too, Phuket has been an immigration mess for as long as I have been coming to Thailand.

More likely somebody was not getting their cut but a generous thought.

for sure, now he is "Departing...."

not for a long time or maybe on the end of a rope

thats what you call inter racial marriage. at least your wives try to speak your language!! Any chance you can put the paper and beer down and try to reciprocate in Thai - Nah no fcking chance lazy spoilt barsterads. Flame on I dont care the truth hurts

goodness change your medication

How is that going to stop the most popular cheat, not resetting the pump between customers?

What I find strange is that the government is pushing this idea as they they are right up there with BIB at you know what, maybe somebody was not getting a fair cut ?

I wish they would give us more info regardless. Will the scan look more like this:

Or will it be showing down to skin? I think they would have to have only female guards at the scanners, or nobody would consent.

There was another thread about this, (and privacy), that made a good point. Once there is something that can see your genitals, it will be fetishized. How long until DVDs of the scans are available at Pantip?

We need safety, but at what cost to human freedom and dignity?

get a life what makes you think anyone would be interested in paying to look at your genitals?

Sounds like a good idea, but can I say please, about the term , " Farang".

I think it's racist as it means " Caucasian"

Thais don't call foreigners from other Asian countries by this term, only western, white skinned people.

And I am assuming other races are allowed to join your group ?

And presumably fully grown women, referred to as " Girls" really panders to the idea, and the resultant language usage- that being a "woman" is somehow undesirable, adult females should all aspire to be " Girls" ( i.e. young and sexually attractive.)

For perspective on the wide use of this term, " girls", ( I know it's totally acceptable, but that is what worries me,)

would a group of males of the same age as yourselves call themselves , "... Boys Club ?"

I know your club is about fun, but when I see these terms propagated, I have to speak up.

How about the Foreign Women's club?

Good luck

CFIT

GET A LIFE

Is this a match for the 'how to get a stall/space' for the market?

Anything you print that gets seen around town (is liked by locals) will be copied before your ink dries.

Not really, I have more interesting products

(unless it's a real moneymaker)

bomb squad

if you see me running please try and keep up

These bars charge a "bar fine" to the customer and let the employee leave for the night or a "short time" usually about two to three hours. It is suspected that many of these rendezvous are sexually related, police said

Gee... you think?????? I'll be darn!!!!!!!!!!!

I am appalled to read this, are these owners unaware that many of these young ladies are from the impoverished North and have many grasping relatives to support, fining them and garnishing their wages is illegal. I would suggest they take the following action. Firstly write to their local member of parliament appraising him of the situation. Secondly copy the letter to a well known ex minister residing I believe in Dubai who is well known for his honesty and integrity as this upstanding citizen has a wide following and many contacts in Thai society. Thirdly contact their local police community support officer as these gentlemen are well versed with corruption and extortion. Finally a letter to Dear Abbey in the Bangkok post who I believe is widely read would bring this sorry state of affairs to a much wider audience.

I do hope the young men employed in Boise Town are not subject to the same extortion, for the readers unaware of Boise Town it is an area in the South of Pattaya which I believe was first settled with persons of Germanic extraction who moved here from Idahoe. These fine young men who eschew electronic computer games for a more robust way of life involving gymnastics sliding up and down tall greasy silver poles are role models for many young Thais, the exercise being beneficial in toning the body and tightening the buttocks, if indeed they are open to extortion I would suggest they contact the many Europeans who frequent this area, once aroused I can assure you they will be only too happy to get behind these young men with a firmness that some may find alarming.

Finally I find the suggestion that Europeans may actually be the owners of these establishments racist, it is a well documented fact that Europeans are benevolent when dealing with local natives I suspect the true owners could be North Korean as they as a race are renowned for exploiting the down trodden.

I just read in Yahoo! News that in some areas of the UK, 50% of the children have been infected.

is this a village of two ?

OK, unlike you my ears are very much open and yeah the buy yer bride comment was unneccessary. You have the ability to annoy me even though I know nothing about you. This is not a good sign for you, anyway back to the point...

Global temperatures have not risen in 10 years, why jingthing? You 'know' man made climate change is real, educate me please

We have historical evidence of enforced migration due to climate change from times before industrialisation. - youtube - man on earth

And one final question then I'm done - Do you think humans have the ability to stop the supposed climate change that's such a threat to our existence when humanity contributes less than 3% of co2 in the atmosphere?

Ladies please!

OK, unlike you my ears are very much open and yeah the buy yer bride comment was unneccessary. You have the ability to annoy me even though I know nothing about you. This is not a good sign for you, anyway back to the point...

Global temperatures have not risen in 10 years, why jingthing? You 'know' man made climate change is real, educate me please

We have historical evidence of enforced migration due to climate change from times before industrialisation. - youtube - man on earth

And one final question then I'm done - Do you think humans have the ability to stop the supposed climate change that's such a threat to our existence when humanity contributes less than 3% of co2 in the atmosphere?

Ladies please!

EVErYONe KNOW USA IS NUMBER 1 . can someone point out a better country?

BUT giVe OBAMMA some time he will bring us back to the pack.

To bring us back implies your not nr 1 at the moment. I have no fondness of the USA probably because i have never been there.

lots of humans never been to usa yet know it rules! you never read a book? can you name a company better known than mc donalds........... .thais know mickey mouse!

coca cola

Mexican food ranks right up there with with all other sustenance foods that poor people eat. Tortillas and beans hardly classifies on an international cuisine list.

Spoken like a true Brit.

Of course, offal, shepherd's pie and Scottish haggis is what great cuisine is all about!

I'm not a Brit. I'm a Canadian. We are more likely to dine on salmon, halibut, prawns, crab, or one of the many kinds of wild meat: roast venison, moose, wild sheep, caribou, elk, or even beaver. I've always enjoyed eating beaver. It's non fattening.

Then we can toss in wild berries and sweet corn.

good one i enjoy beaver too. seems nobody picked up on your wit

Going to Pak? OR Afgan?

Coming FROM Ukraine, going TO North Korea.

Why does everyone assume North Korea would have ANYTHING to do with America's illegal invasion and occupation of Afghanistan, or their illegal and immoral drone attacks on their "Ally" Pakistan???

Munitions shipments happen EVERY DAY, EVERY HOUR, EVERYWHERE. So one flight had mechanical malfunction: LET'S PANIC!!!!!

Just because the idiot George W. Bush labeled North Korea as part of an "axis of evil"?? Word: Bush was "projecting" his own designs on others.

Thailand should have simply repaired the problem, made some fees, and sent them on their way. Instead, it gets blown up as some sort of "crisis"...sheeesh.

Signed: embarrassed and fed up American

If you are so embarrassed and fed up of Thailand and USA go and live in North Korea among all its happy free people, its perfect form of government, there is a small problem of course if you made this form of rabid comment there you would be shot.

Is that a lot? 35 tonnes?? Sounds like it.

more than 25 tons

I mentioned it in another thread, I thought it was around 8% (but wasn't sure it is 8% of the GDP or GNP).

That's why I was shaking my head at all the people who seem to think this is the (economic) end for Thailand, just because Suvarnabhumi was closed, as though all of Thailand's economy revolved around one airport, some air-cargo, and some stranded tourists.

Granted, 8% is a huge chunk of money in it's own right, and it were to totally disappear today, never to be seen again, it would cause some hardships for the country.

However, some peace and stability in the country, and an upswing in the global economy, and in a couple years time, that 8% won't even be noticed. Think about it. If the country (and the rest of the world) settled down, and were to enjoy a low to moderate 3% per year growth rate, in less than 3 years they would be right back.

OK, without the tourist income (of any kind) it may take a little longer. Hmm, calculator on, numbers to crunch.......

(Just as examples)

100 billion - Gross National Product (GNP)

8 billion - tourism (8%) totally erased off the books.

92 billion - New GNP (say - 1 Jan 09)

2.75 billion (3% of new GNP)

94.75 total (end of year 1, 31 Dec 09)

2.84 billion (3% of 09 GNP)

97.59 billion (end of year 2, 31 Dec 10)

2.93 billion (3% of '10 GNP)

100.5 billion (end of year 3, 31 Dec 11)

Now there are a lot of factors that could change the numbers (up or down), but, based on only a 3% growth rate and NO tourism revenue AT ALL, it would only take about 3 years for the economy to make up that lost revenue.

I highly doubt the tourism industry would never come back. In fact, within a few months of this crisis being resolved we'll probably be seeing threads whining about long lines at immigration again.

And if the global economy picks up (which would no doubt mean a rise in tourism as well) ? Higher annual growth rate and more tourism $$ ?

These are just quick example figures, but for anyone who thinks this current crisis and the shutting down of Swampy is going to cripple Thailand's economy, you may want to think again.

Of course, if this all ends up into a major civil war, North against South, Red against Yellow, Light-skinned vs Dark-skinned, then all bets are off.

mmm yawn zzzzzzzzzzzz

Found the place for you North Korea, no materialism there,

who cares ?

Sounds like a good idea, but can I say please, about the term , " Farang".

I think it's racist as it means " Caucasian"

Thais don't call foreigners from other Asian countries by this term, only western, white skinned people.

And I am assuming other races are allowed to join your group ?

And presumably fully grown women, referred to as " Girls" really panders to the idea, and the resultant language usage- that being a "woman" is somehow undesirable, adult females should all aspire to be " Girls" ( i.e. young and sexually attractive.)

For perspective on the wide use of this term, " girls", ( I know it's totally acceptable, but that is what worries me,)

would a group of males of the same age as yourselves call themselves , "... Boys Club ?"

I know your club is about fun, but when I see these terms propagated, I have to speak up.

How about the Foreign Women's club?

Good luck

CFIT

Lighten up man

Very sorry to hear about your wife , I hope she can recover quickly ,

Firstly , you cannot have someone expelled from thailand. The person has to commit a crime that warrants deportation, then subsequent refusal entry into thailand again.

The deportation of a criminal can only be enforced by the chief of police

Also, i would seriously not consider the other suggestions as this may only get you into a lot more trouble than you bargained for .... it's not worth jail or whatever

I would try to coax this guy into having a meeting with you and make sure you have a BIB present.

Then you need to go through each step point by point and find out why this guy is such an asshol_e to your wife... find out what his problem is... !!

If you have success to clear up why he's such a <deleted> , then I would request a fairly substancial compensation , and I would have the BIB put pressure on this guy so much so that he will comply in the end. If you need 2-3 meetings then so be it ... but I believe this is the route to go !!!

Then after the compensation is paid at the final meeting and the BIB has requested he not go anywhere near your wife or he will be arrested immediately .....

Then i would knock him arse over ....

Just my opinion !!!

cheers.

Seems to me this <deleted> does not have any money ie paying late rent, myself I would forget trying to collect comp take care of it the Thai way and good luck.

You were very very lucky

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

yep possibly but it's worth a shot if you don't want to take the driving test's

should have made it a little clearer, I did also have the other necisarry stuff, a Non-Im visa and a letter from British Embassey stating residence, they accepted the photocard licence instead of a IDP and didn't need to get it translated!

Do not think you were lucky the very same way I got my license 3 months ago along with several other farangs same day

At the Asoke-Din Daeng intersection, there is a group of children that carry some detergent and a sponge. When you stop for the red light at this intersection, the children spring into action - squirt some detergent onto your window, do a very perfunctory cleaning of your car's side window (like 1/3 of the driver's or passengers side window) and the expect to be paid.

Don't know if these are Thai kids or not. But they look like they are being exploited.

Ever driven in New York city?