Thai beauties and a few beasts, the return of Thaksin : Tim Newton Today - August 21

Whilst Thais decide a new Miss Universe Thailand, they seem less able to decide on a new prime minister. That may change tomorrow with the next joint sitting of the Thai parliament and a vote for, possibly, Srettha Thavisin, the Pheu Thai candidate. But there may be an arrival at Don Mueang Airport by former PM and fugitive Thaksin Shinawatra Tuesday morning. SO... a busy day for the Thai media.

Meanwhile, a novel way to promote your 'Broccoli' shop in Bangla Road, Patong, a controversial (and terrifying) state in Bangkok is getting attention from officials and a skeleton washed up on a Phang Nga beach.

And West Side Story comes to Bangkok in October as part of the Bangkok International Festival of Dance and Music.

Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.