We are based in Thailand and want to offer a neutral news blog that describes current events in the country. We will be careful not to focus on personal opinions but instead provide factual news directly from Thailand, together with comments. The goal is to be fast, simple and accurate.
February 15, 2012
Explosives Found in House
Remote-controlled bombs were found in the house at Sukhumvit 71 where the first explosion occurred yesterday. The intended targets might have been Israeli diplomats in Bangkok.
Thai government sources say that there is no evidence that the three Iranians really deliberate acts of terrorism.
A Third Suspect Fled to Malaysia
Besides the two terror suspect who were arrested yesterday, one more Iranian citizen, named as Sedaghatzadeh Masud, has managed to flee to Malaysia, by a regular flight.
February 14, 2012
Israel: Iran and Hezbollah Responsible
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Iran and Hezbollah of being behind the bomb attack in Bangkok earlier today. Israeli targets have recently been attacked in India and Georgia and even in these cases, Israel has accused Iran of being behind these attacks. Also the Swedish-Lebanese terror suspect Hussein Atris, who was arrested in Bangkok a month ago, is accused of having ties to this group.
Man Threw Grenades in Bangkok
Today, a man threw a grenade against a taxi on Sukhumvit Soi 71, in central Bangkok. He also tried to throw a grenade towards a police officer, but it is said to have bounced back against a tree (!) which meant that the offender had his own legs shattered by the exploding grenade.
Minutes before this incident, another bomb exploded in the suspect's rented home, which is located in the vicinity. Three men fled from the scene.
Four injured Thais were transferred to Kluaynamthai Hospital, while the suspected terrorist was taken to Chulalongkorn Hospital to be treated for his severe injuries.
Rumors claim that the offender is of Iranian origin, as Iranian bank notes were scattered on the ground after the explosion. An ID card have been found which supports this theory. Another man was arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Our thoughts: Are the Iranians planning to hit Israeli targets in Thailand? Just a few days ago Israeli targets were attacked in a few other countries. Israel are also suspected of having carried out several attacks against Iranian nuclear scientists on Iranian soil.
February 13, 2012
Ten Soldiers Injured by Bomb
Ten soldiers were wounded today when a bomb detonated in the province of Yala in southern Thailand. Muslim separatists are thought to be behind the attacks.
SOURCE: MCOT
1000 Daily Arrests for Drug Offences
135.445 people were arrested for drug offenses in Thailand between 11 September 2011 and 31 January 2012. This corresponds to about 1000 people a day!
16 million methamphetamine pills, 600 kilograms of crystallized methamphetamine (commonly known as "ice"), 200 kg of heroin, 3 tons of marijuana and four million pseudoephedrine pills were seized. The street value of the drugs are about 600 million baht altogether.
SOURCE: MCOT
February 9, 2012
Our Hotel Tip: Stay Cheap in Chiang Mai
Buri Gallery House is a gem in Chiang Mai, built in traditional Lanna-style. The hotel is centrally located on "walking street" (one of the most famous streets in the city) and has facilities such as pool, a cozy restaurant, a bar, a small spa and a beautiful garden. Altogether there are 21 rooms. Also these are designed in traditional Lanna style with wooden details and beautiful decorations.
The hotel is popular among people using our hotel reservation system. It has very good reviews overall.
*) Lanna is a kingdom that existed in northern Thailand from the 1200s to 1775.
Here are seven tips on activities for those who are looking for enjoying life to the fullest, while staying on the island of Koh Samui:
1. A nice day at the beach club of Beach Republic in northern Lamai, with icy mojitos, spa treatment and a refreshing swim in one of the two pools. Or why not try their famous brunch on Sundays?!
2. An authentic Italian culinary experience at Prego in northern Chaweng, with a good wine. Their Antipasto misto alla Prego is highly recommended as a starter.
3. A complete spa treatment surrounded by a amazing palm tree cultivation at Tamarind Retreat in Lamai. And why not finish with a bath and herbal sauna.
4. Play tennis at the rooftop of IT Complex with superb views over Lamai. Book at the reception reception desk at the ground floor of the IT Complex 1.
5. An unbeatable round of golf at Santiburi in northern Samui. This golf course is considered to be one of the world's finest, by many golfers.
6. Book a "honeymoon seat" with someone you really like on the island's only movie theater. It's called Major Cineplex and it's located in the same building as Tesco Lotus, between Chaweng and Bo Phut.
7. A romantic dinner at W Retreat, in Maenam.
Have a great stay on the island of Samui!
February 6, 2012
Nine Illegal Casinos in Bangkok?!
A senior police officer has stated that there are at least nine illegal casinos in and around the capital. The controversial and outspoken politician Chuvit Kamolvisit (Rak Thailand Party) claims that he has proof that these casinos really do exist and that they are protected by powerful patrons.
CHUVIT KAMOLVISIT - Photo by: Jeremy
The Thai People are Less Happy
The Gross Domestic Happiness (GDH) among the Thai people has fallen from 7.55 in July last year to 6.66 at the beginning of this year. This according to a poll conducted by Assumption University of Thailand.
Reasons cited include various political factors, a deteriorating economy, and price increases.
January 31, 2012
Don Muang Expected to Open March 6
Don Muang, Bangkok's second airport is expected to reopen on March 6, this year. The repair of the runways is estimated at 150 million baht.
The budget airline Nok Air says they will return to Don Muang, while Orient Thai has not yet decided which airport they will use in future.
Russians Stranded after Bankruptcy
A Russian travel agency (The Lanta-Tour Company, which has operated since 1991) was declared bankrupt, which has led to more than one hundred Russian nationals stranded in Pattaya. This is because the hotel and return tickets haven't been paid.
The Russian Embassy in Thailand has helped the stranded people to arrange new accommodation and flights home to Russia.
SOURCE: PATTAYAONE.NET
January 26, 2012
860.000 PC Tablets to First Graders
Thailand's newly appointed Education Minister Suchart Thadathamrongvej promises to give out 860.000 PC tablets to first graders (called Prathom 1, corresponding to elementary school, grade 1).
The computers are scheduled to be bought from China at a favorable price, which is estimated at 2 billion Baht.
Our thoughts: To train and educate children about computers is a great initiative. But why PC tablets? Can really young children use these? What happens if a kid drops his or her tablet on the floor? How many of these will be broken in a year?
These questions will probably be answered if and when this becomes a reality. One can only hope for the best because children's education is extremely important, but it will also cost a significant amount of money.
Man Stole 10.000 Panties, in 30 Years
I admit, this is not the "most serious" story I have published on this news blog, but I couldn't help laughing when I heard it, even if it's probably to be regarded as "tragicomic," or something...
A Thai 48-year-old man was stopped yesterday by the police and they found more than a thousand pair of panties in his car trunk. During a search, the police found additional 10.000 panties!
The man has admitted that he had stolen the panties during the last thirty years! He also admitted that he used to smell them even when he drove in his car. The police can not prosecute the man, because there is no aggrieved party.
SOURCE: AFP
January 25, 2012
Beware of the Sand Flies (part 2)
Continued from yesterday ...
If you get bitten by a sand fly you should:
1. Make every effort not to scratch the bites, although the itching can be (to say the least) intense. Unfortunately, many scratch their bites even in their sleep. The itching can be relieved with tea tree oil and / or ibuprofen gel.
2. If the bites become infected or larger you should immediately visit a physician or visit a "medical center", so you can get bites cleaned and treated. It is not unusual that they become infected and then antibiotics might be necessary.
If the bites get infected, there is also a risk of more or less permanent scars, so be sure to at clean them every morning and evening. One tip is to wash them thoroughly with a saline solution and iodine (such as Betadine). You can buy these without a prescription in any pharmacy in Thailand. An antihistamine ointment called Systral could also help you. Consult your doctor or health care professional for more specific advice regarding self-care.
In some parts of the world the sand flies can transmit really nasty diseases such as leishmaniasis (sandfly fever). Fortunately, this is extremely rare in Thailand, so no need to panic.
January 24, 2012
Beware of the Sand Flies (part 1)
In particularly Koh Samet and Koh Maak beaches, sand flies means some trouble for both tourists and the locals.
The sand fly (from the Phlebotomidae family) is so small that it is sometimes called no-see-um in parts of the world. They are often found at the beaches and they are most active at dusk, just as "normal mosquitoes." Unfortunately, the sand fly a fast little buggers, which together with the modest size makes them "treacherous" for both humans and animals (such as dogs).
You avoid sand flies in exactly the same way as ordinary mosquitoes, ie with insecticide (containing the active ingredient of DEET) and clothing (sarong, etc.) covering the areas of the body that usually favored by mosquitoes (ankles, legs, etc.)
If you are getting bitten by these little blighters on the beach, the best method is to very quickly run into the water. Bites can result in more trouble than itching.
More on this tomorrow (Part 2).
A SAND FLY ON A HUMAN FINGER - Photo by: Unknown
January 23, 2012
Pakistani Man Killed his Daughter
A Pakistani man has been arrested by Thai police on suspicion of having killed his own 5-year-old daughter.
According to the police the tragedy started when the man had a quarrel with his Thai wife, making their daughter upset and crying. The man then directed his aggression towards his daughter instead and beat her so roughly that she died.
The arrested man was staying illegally in Thailand.
January 20, 2012
Thailand Recognizes Palestine
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has thanked Thailand for their opinion that Palestine should be recognized as a state.
Beware of Bogus Monks in Phuket
It has emerged that there are a few "fake monks" in Phuket, begging money from tourists. Chatpawit Jinapong from the National Office of Buddhism say that the real monks do not receive food after eight o'clock in the morning, while bogus monks are begging (mostly for money) at any time of the day or night.
This occurs in other places in the country too. Do not be fooled. A warning is issued.
IMPORTANT! The monks on the picture below are real.
REAL MONKS ON KOH SAMET - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
January 19, 2012
Police Seized Drugs for 300 million
The Thai police have taking part in an operation against a drug gang that have smuggled 51 kg ice (crystallized methamphetamine) and 300,000 yaba pills (methamphetamine) into the country. The narcotics are estimated to be worth 300 million baht on the street. A number of gang members have been arrested.
SOURCE: MCOT
Our Hotel Tip: Next to Kata in Phuket
Sawasdee Village in Kata, Phuket is our hotel tip of the day. This is a magnificent resort designed in traditional Thai design, with wooden buildings, Asian gardens, waterfalls and beautiful sculptures and artwork. A total oriental experience with all the facilities you would expect from this kind of accommodation. WiFi is included in the price.
We hardly need to mention that this is a hotel truly appreciated by the majority of its guests. The place has a very high average ratings.
The alleged Lebanese-Swedish terrorist who was arrested a few days ago has made some confessions according to Thai police. It appeared that he has kept 4.2 tons of fertilizer and other "bomb ingredients" in a warehouse situated south of Bangkok. The police have seized 400 boxes of fertilizer from the warehouse and the investigation continues.
The man has also said that a number of other people, with Swedish passports, are involved in the alleged terror cell. These are still at large.
Our thoughts: There is not much to add except that I am happy about seizure, while I am a little shocked by the scale. We do all remember the horror scenes in Oslo a few months ago!
Our Hotel Tip: Affordable in Hua Hin
Prinz Garden Villa Serviced Apartments is a popular and Mediterranean-inspired resort in Hua Hin, which can be described as an apartment hotel. The hotel has a child-friendly pool and grass areas with tables and sun beds for the guests' comfort.
We recommend this place just for the simple reason that it is affordable and has exceptionally good reviews on almost all comparison and hotel reservation websites.
A man has been arrested on suspicion of involvement in the assassination of journalist Wisut “Ae Inside” Tangwitthayaporn. As we wrote here before, he was shot in his car in Phuket last Thursday. A press conference, including the suspect, will be held later today.
The arrested men is suspected of being the person who fired the fatal shots, but the police have yet to find the murder weapon, a 9 millimeter pistol.
SOURCE: PHUKET GAZETTE
Thai Boxer Lecturing a Banana Tree
Muay Thai champion Buakaw Por. Pramuk versus a banana tree:
January 14, 2012
Terror Suspect Lived in Gothenburg
The 47-year-old terror suspect man who was arrested in Bangkok is very likely to be a Swedish citizen. According to Expressen.se and their sources, he has been living in the Gothenburg area, but that was almost ten years ago. He has since returned to Lebanon.
Terror Suspect has a Swedish Passport
A Lebanese man has been arrested in Bangkok suspected of plotting terrorist attacks to be carried out in the capital. The arrest was preceded by advice from the Israeli Security Agency. Another man is also suspected of involvement. That man is still at large.
It is suspected that the two men have planned to carry out their attacks against Israeli and American interests in the country. It is thought that they belong to the Iranian-backed organization Hezbollah.
The arrested man had both a Lebanese and Swedish passport on arrest. The Swedish passport was issued in 2005.
It has NOT been confirmed whether the man really is a Swedish citizen or not. Andre Mkandawire from the Swedish Foreign Ministry commented:
"It may be that he (the suspected terrorists) have dual citizenship, or he can be a Swedish citizen with a foreign background."
IMAGE FROM THE SUSPECT'S PASSPORT - Photo by: Passport photo
January 12, 2012
Thai Journalist Shot Dead in Phuket
A Thai journalist, Wisut "Ae Inside" Tangwitthayaporn, 40, was shot dead this morning, while sitting in his Honda Jazz.
Two people on a motorcycle forced Wisut to stop the car and one of them fired four shots through the car's windshield and struck Wisut in the chest. He was rushed to the hospital, but his life could not be saved.
The police have, at the time of writing, not comment on any possible motive for the murder, but they are investigating the matter with high priority. Wisut was the owner of the magazine Inside Phuket Newspaper and an active "red shirt" (ie sympathizer with a political movement, UDD, which has some links with the government party. Pheu Thai).
800 Dogs Rescued from Certain Death
The Thai navy has rescued 800 dogs from an animal smuggling ring in northeastern Thailand. The gang were in the process of transporting the dogs across the Mekong River to Laos, for further travel to Vietnam where dog meat is considered a delicacy among some of the population.
Only one person, a 37-year-old man, were arrested, while the other suspects managed to escape. The dogs were sent to Nakhon Phanom Animal Quarantine Station for care.
WHO SAID THAT DOGS DON'T SMILE?! - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
January 10, 2012
Man from Surin Marries Dead Girlfriend
Deff Yingyuen from Surin in northeast Thailand has married his dead girlfriend. The somewhat spectacular and unusual ceremony took place almost a week ago, in a temple in his home province.
The couple had been together for ten years and had decided to marry, but the plans were ruined when the bride was killed in a tragic accident. However, Deff kept his promise and completed the plans.
The news of the unusual wedding gathered a lot of attention in social media, such as Facebook.
January 9, 2012
Our Hotel Tip: Four Stars in Bangkok
Viva Garden is a recently built four-star hotel in central Bangkok and if it's ok to stay a little further down on Sukhumvit Road (soi 60), you should really consider this hotel. This is a place with all the facilities that you can expect from a first-class accommodation (including large balconies). Moreover, it is situated really close to the nearest skytrain station, which is found only minutes away from the hotel.
Viva Garden has received outstanding reviews and customer ratings on many reservation and comparison websites.
The Thai opposition, The Democrat Party, believe that the government's plan to use the central bank's assets to pay off debts is extremely risky and can result in high inflation and even a currency crisis.
Former Finance Minister Korn Chatikavanij also believes that the current government's promises of tax cuts for first-time car buyers and giving out free tablet computers to students are populism, which might damage the country's economy over time. Countries forcing central banks to print money are considered to be "banana republics", says Korn.
We will write more on this in coming weeks.
January 6, 2012
Renner in the Middle of a Bar Brawl
The US Hollywood star Jeremy Renner got in the middle of a violent bar fight yesterday morning, at the Carnala-Rachada Pub in Phuket Town. A person in his entourage, the General Manager of the Sri Panwa Resort, was attacked by six persons armed with knives and a home-made ax!
The trouble is reported to have begun when the 31-year-old hotel manager dropped a glass, but what happened next is not yet officially known. The manager was taken the the hospital as he was stabbed, but he is said to be "ok". Jeremy Renner avoided the situation without injuries, according to his spokesperson.
The trouble started around half past four in the morning, and this is considerably later than the time the bars should be closed, according to the law. The police is now considering to close the bar for at least a sixty-day period.
Renner has starred in movies such as: "The Hurt Locker," "Thor," "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol" and "28 Weeks Later".
JEREMY RENNER, AMERICAN ACTOR - Photo by: Unknown
January 4, 2012
Police Found Ya Ice Worth 220 Million!
The Thai police have found (!) six abandoned bags containing 73 kilos of ya ice (crystallized methamphetamine) at a bus terminal in Bangkok. The drugs are worth 220 million baht on the street!
Akira Ogata, was the Japanese chemist who first crystallized methamphetamine in 1919. The drug is highly addictive and really dangerous for the body and psyche. A user who try to quit often suffer from withdrawal, depression, panic attacks, fatigue symptoms and other mental problems.
Our thoughts: Ice is beginning to be equally disastrous for Thailand as yaba was ten years ago. The drug is particularly popular among young people and many prostitutes and the awareness of the drug's adverse effects are frightening low.
452 Million Baht to Benefit Tourism
The Tourism Department in Thailand is seeking 452 million baht to promote and enhance tourism in the country. This will benefit 28 different projects in selected tourist destinations.
January 3, 2012
Our Hotel Tip: Four Stars on Koh Chang
Gajapuri Resort & Spa is located next to the beach Kai Bae Beach on the west coast of Koh Chang. They offer everything from bungalows to small "houses" with their own private pools. The resort also has facilities like a swimming pool, pool bar, massage room, ice cream bar and restaurant.
This is one of the absolutely most popular hotels on the island and is currently top ranked in the most internationally popular comparison site Tripadvisor. This is a resort we can really recommend to anyone who wants it real nice on the "Elephant Island".
It has been raining a lot in southeast Thailand over the past two days. Fortunately, it has not resulted in any serious flooding, but obviously it is very sad for all travelers (and even for many locals and business owners). I personally have celebrated Christmas and New Year about 15-16 times on Samui and it's not often that the weather is this bad in early January.
December 30, 2011
The Sunshine Makes us Healthier
Media often write about cancer risks associated with sun exposure, but they often "forget" to provide information about the obvious advantages with the UV rays. They are by far the best source to give the body the vital vitamin D, which according to some research reports may protect against a number of diseases.
Sunscreen stops the absorption of the vitamin D almost completely. Therefore, it is recommended to wait about 15 minutes before applying the sunscreen. (children should be protected from the sun all the time).
Research reports claim that lack of vitamin D may increase the risk of suffering from depression, some types of cancer and MS, etc.
The sun is your friend, but moderate sun exposure is preferable, just as it is with many other things in life.
SUNBATHE - BUT DO IT WISELY - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
December 28, 2011
Our Hotel Tip: Mid Budget on Koh Tao
Sensi Paradise Beach Resort is found near Mae Haad Beach at eastern Koh Tao. The rooms are individually designed to maximize the comfort factor. This is one of the most popular mid-range accommodation options on Koh Tao and it consists of more than 40 cozy wooden bungalows in a beautiful surrounding environment.
As you may know, we recommend only hotels that have received very good average of its guests and Sensi Paradise Beach Resort is no exception.
An express train collided with a pickup car this afternoon in Pranburi, south of Hua Hin. The first car in the train derailed and overturned in the accident. The train was en route from Surat Thani to Bangkok.
One person died and 124 were injured, including a number of foreign tourists.
December 26, 2011
We are Back as Normal on Wednesday
I am having a Christmas holiday (as you probably already have noticed), but in two days I'll be back with more Thailand news, tips on accommodation and other odds and ends from the "Empire of Silk and Coconuts".
Please come back in a few days!
December 15, 2011
Train Crashed into Cars - Several Injured
At least ten people were been injured, of them six seriously, when a train rammed nine cars in Bangkok yesterday. According to the driver misjudged the distance and braked too late, although he had a red flag.
Our Hotel Tip: Mid Budget in Koh Lanta
Lanta Castaway Resort is located on Phra Ae. This beach is located in the northwestern part of the island and is ideal for those who want a relaxed holiday in a great (but still a mid-range) accommodation. You are also able to book family rooms for up to four people. Not many resorts have this excellent so good guest reviews and ratings as Lanta Castaway Resort.
More information can be found through the link below:
The American 27-year-old mixed martial arts fighter Junie Browning is wanted in Phuket after a very violent bar fight. During the quarrel several people were injured (including Browning himself) so badly that they were taken to hospital.
The argument started at a bar in Karon and reportedly a part of weapons such as bottles, glasses and knives were used. Then the violent fight continued at Phuket Hospital (!)
Browning, wrote this on his Facebook status after the fight:
"Wow what a [expletive] weekend, "" Some [expletive] ******* and about 10 of his friends started a fight with me. I guess just to test a "UFC fighter" on this [expletive] little bar in Patong, Thailand. I got a beer bottle and a glass smashed against my head, then to make it all better, I was stabbed hard by some crazy Thai [expletive]. "Positively enough, I managed to crack some cheek bones, at least one pair of jaws, and I left some unconscious bodies lying on the ground before I had a blackout from blood the loss and obviously must be revived in the ambulance. So, how was your weekend?"
The post was later deleted from his Facebook page.
The police in Phuket is now searching for Browning and the Immigration Police have been contacted in order to avoid that he manages to escape from the island.
Browning was one of the participants in the reality show "The Ultimate Fighter", but has not made a particularly eye-catching career in MMA. He has lost his last four MMA fights, including one against Reza "Mad Dog" Madadi, who defeated him in Sweden.
SOURCE: PHUKET GAZETTE
December 8, 2011
Floods will Cost 500 million Euro?
The insurance group Munich Re said on Thursday that the costs for this year's floods in Thailand will be about EUR 500 million (approximately $ 671 million).
However, they were careful to point out that it's still impossible to estimate how much the final bill will. It is still difficult to estimate the cost of the damage in the industrial areas around Bangkok.
2,5 Years in Prison for Lese-majesty
A criminal court today sentenced the American citizen Lerpong Wichai Khammat (aka Joe Gordon) for a Lese-majeste offense to 2.5 years in prison.
He is sentenced for having translated excerpts from a book that is banned in Thailand, and then publishing the content on the Internet.
The First Pardoned Prisoners Released
During The King's birthday, three days ago, it was proclaimed that approximately 26.000 prisoners will be freed from Thai prisons. This is due to a royal pardon.
Today about twelve thousand inmates were released today and a large number of prisoners are to be released at December 18.
December 7, 2011
Bus Crashes in Northern Thailand
A double-decker bus crashed in northern Thailand yesterday, during a trip from Chiang Mai to Bangkok. Eight people were reportedly killed and 49 were injured, including 20 seriously. According to the authorities, no foreigners were among the passengers.
Police say they believe the driver did fall asleep before the bus crashed into the wall at a gas station. Fortunately, it "missed" the petrol pumps, which could have caused a disaster. The driver was also killed in the accident.
December 5, 2011
HM King of Thailand turns 84
Today at lunchtime, HM The King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit went from the Siriraj Hospital to the Grand Palace (พระบรมมหาราชวัง) in a Volkswagen van. The King is celebrating his 84th birthday today and thousands of people were standing along the roads. The procession included the Crown Prince and other members from the Royal Family.
Thai.nu hope that the King will have a very enjoyable birthday! We also would like to congratulate all dads, as it is Father's Day in Thailand today.
BHUMIBOL ADULYADEJ WITH HIS MOTHER IN 1929 - Photo by: Unknown
December 3, 2011
Thaksin on His Way Back to Thailand?
Many people in Thailand believe that the former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will return to Thailand in the near future. The Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul have indicated that they are preparing a passport to him as a "New Year's gift." Thaksin has lived in exile since the bloodless coup in 2006. He has spent much of the time in Dubai.
November 30, 2011
A few Thai Companies that I Like
I like these Thai brands / firms and they help me to make my wallet thinner:
Tipco - Produces really delicious fruit and vegetable juices that are available "everywhere". Many flavors and variations. Web site
Mc Jeans - Nice quality jeans and other clothes at affordable prices. They started their production in 1975. I like locally produced stuff. Web site
Bumrungrad - First class medical, health and dental care in central Bangkok. Very good service, but it comes with a price. Web site
Major Cineplex - Great cinemas with excellent seats. A ticket costs (from) about 120 baht (2011). "Honeymoon-seats" are available in the back. Web site
Major Bowl Hit - Affordable Disco Bowling and other entertainment. You are also able to order beer, other drinks and snacks. Web site
Twins - Muay Thai and boxing equipment made with high quality. My latest bag gloves looks new after half a year of frequent use. Web site
Black Canyon - Good coffee, simple food and snacks with affordable prices. When you order coffee, small cakes and a sip of tea are included in the price. Web site
Krungsri - A bank with decent service (subject to local variations), and many ATMs available around the country. Web site
Logo cavalcade below. I have noticed the matching color scheme, except for one of the logos:
November 28, 2011
Fewer Tourists to Thailand this Year
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates that Thailand can expect 400,000-750,000 fewer tourists than expected this year, due to the recent floods in the country. This would mean 16-19 billion baht in lost revenue.
Domestic tourism is also expected to decline sharply this year.
Our thoughts: I personally believe that the struggling economy in Europe and the U.S. also is a major contributor to the decrease.
November 19, 2011
Foreign Offices Changes Travel Advice
Many foreign ministries do NOT any longer urge their citizens to avoid traveling to Bangkok and the provinces affected by floods in recent months. However, travelers should exercise some caution if they are in areas where there still is water from the flooding. Avoid wading in the flood if possible. And if you do, wash your feet and legs thoroughly with soap afterwards.
PLEASE NOTE! None of Thailand's islands or popular beach resorts have been hit by the floods.
November 17, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 20)
• U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, this morning said that the crew of the warship USS Lassen will help to assist Thailand. The crew will primarily assist in repairing the second largest airport, Don Muang. Clinton stated that the government will assist the team with up to ten million dollars. The US has several important military-strategic interests in Thailand.
• UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon praises Thailand for its assistance to the economically underprivileged people during the floods in the country. Not least the fact that poor citizens are treated medically without being indebted.
• Central Bangkok (Siam, Sukhumvit, Pratunam, Silom, etc.) have not been affected by the floods. Tourists can sleep well in their hotel rooms.
• Many residents in Pathum Thani are angry because the authorities have raised bag embankments to protect the air force base at Don Muang. Yesterday a large number of local residents removed many of the heavy bags. This meant that the water flowed freely into the air base. Today, about 200 policemen are deployed to guard the area.
November 14, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 19)
• The Pollution Control Department (PCD) are exchanging garbage with food, such as egg and rice. A person who has collected 20 plastic bottles can exchange these for two kilograms of uncooked rice. A simply brilliant idea and an important initiative!
• The water levels continues to decline in Bangkok. Many previously flooded areas and roads are more or less dry. One such example is the vicinity of the Jatujak Market.
• The express boats on the Chao Phraya River will not begin operating before November 21. This is because of the high water levels in the river.
• Unfortunately, at least 562 people have lost their lives during the last months floods in the country. Our thoughts are with all the families affected.
November 13, 2011
Regarding Recent Travel Advice
All the flooded provinces are located north of Bangkok and the popular beach resorts and islands in Thailand are located south of Bangkok. None of these "tourist destinations" are affected by the floods. Also the airport (Suvarnabhumi Airport) is operating as normal.
In addition, many of the provinces that had previously been flooded are recovering and the water is declining everywhere. There have been minor food shortages also at some tourist destinations, but now it is almost back to normal. We and our friends around the south of Thailand have no problem to eat the same food that we usually do.
We would like to provide information directly from Thailand, as a contrast to media's spectacular (and sometimes even misleading) headlines.
November 11, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 18)
• Swiss experts said yesterday that they don't think the central areas of Bangkok will be flooded. And if it would be, the water levels will be relatively low, maximum 30 centimeters high.
• The water levels are lowering in many of the districts of the capital. Bangkok's governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra yesterday said that the water levels are declining in both the eastern and western parts of the city. He also stated that the water is no longer pressing from the north. This is obviously very good news! However, many canals are still flooded and the number of flooded streets in Bangkok's inner city have probably increased in recent days.
• One phenomenon that has struck has struck many foreign observers and tourists is that so many of the flood-affected Thais are showing a positive mood and even "happy faces", despite the serious situation. Their possessions and homes might be more or less destroyed, but we see mostly calm people, even with a positive attitude. And why not?! The situation hardly improves by tears and anger. I think we have much to learn from the Thai mentality. Perhaps more than they have to learn from us.
• Did you celebrate Loy Krathong yesterday? We hope that you had a great time! We also hope that all those affected by the floods in Thailand had a good evening with their loved ones.
November 9, 2011
What is Currently Closed in Bangkok?
Here you are able to see what is open and what is closed in Bangkok. Click on the symbols to view the status. Blue indicates opened. Red indicates closed.
• Happily, the situation is now improving quite rapidly in northern, northeastern and central Thailand. But Bangkok and its surrounding areas will be the last to suffer from the floods.
• Unfortunately, the situation in Bangkok is far from stable. The water has now reached Chatuchak and Din Daeng (a district near Lumpini). Din Daeng is situated just north of Ratchathewi District, which is located north of Watthana District, where many of the most popular hotels and department stores are found. In plain language, this means that central Bangkok now is seriously at risk of flooding. However, it is important to point out that the authorities is giving priority to keep the central parts of the city dry. It is unlikely that the flooding will become as widespread and "serious" there, as in some of the city's outskirts. We will keep you updated.
• The closest flooding is currently seven kilometers away from Suvarnabhumi Airport. Yesterday, representatives of the airport assured that it will not be affected by the floods. As we have mentioned earlier, Suvarnabhumi is equipped with highly potent pump system and it is also surrounded by a 3.5 meter high wall. Many leading politicians and representatives of the tourism industry has made it clear that the airport has the highest priority.
• The Bangkok Metropolitan Police have announced that anyone caught looting during the floods, will face twice as harsh sentences, compared to if they had committed the equivalent crime under "normal conditions".
November 7, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 16)
• Reports now suggest that Rama II Road (in Bangkok) will be completely flooded in the near future. There is simply too much water coming from the north.
• China offers 225 extra water pumps to help Thailand in these days of crisis. These will replace existing pumps that are working at high pressure, 24/7. The existing pumps each have a capacity to pump about two cubic meters of water per second.
• At least we have some good news today. The water has started to decline in several provinces, such as Uthai Thani and Pathum Thani, both located north of Bangkok. Residents are cleaning up their neighborhoods and some have begun to renovate their water-damaged homes.
• At least 527 people have died as a result of flooding in recent months, including 28 people in the capital. The most common causes of death are drowning followed by landslides. A number of people have also lost their lives due to electrocution.
November 3, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 15)
• The subway is still in operation in Bangkok. In fact, all 18 stations are open. Despite the fact that parts of Ratchadapisek Road is flooded.
• One fifth of Bangkok is now flooded and about 700,000 homes have been affected in the city and its suburbs. However, the central areas and Suvarnabhumi Airport are still dry.
• There is some risk that the bus terminal Mochit (at Chatuchak) may be moved temporarily to Suvarnabhumi Airport. This is because of flooded streets in the vicinity.
• The zoo and amusement park Safari World will be closed tomorrow as a result of flooding in the area.
November 1, 2011
Grief Mixed with Hope
Unfortunately, it seems that about 11 million rai (1 rai = 1600 square meters) of agricultural land is (temporarily) destroyed because of the floods. Furthermore, 13 million farm animals are missing.
But there is hope in the darkness:
In particular Nakhon Sawan most of the water has now receded and now the residents moved out en masse to clean up the dirty city.
Thais (and others) have donated many millions to the victims in the north. The money has actually helped many in need to get food and fresh water.
People have risked their own safety when they have saved unknown people and animals. There are probably several thousand cases of heroism that never will be highlighted in the media.
Thousands of unpaid people (including foreign tourists) have worked as volunteers to help the ones in need.
Many local politicians and government officials have worked long hours these weeks and prioritized the floods, to coordinate rescue operations etc.
October 31, 2011
Bus Terminal Temporarily Closed
Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal was closed tonight due to temporary flooding in the vicinity. The water prevents the bus services to function normally. A temporary "bus station" has been established at Holland Beer Hall on Rama 2 Road. We'll keep our fingers crossed that the "original" terminal will open again soon!
Latest News on the Floods (part 14)
• The water in Ayutthaya is sinking away slowly and it will probably be totally gone within a month. The province has been particularly badly affected and many people have had major damage to their homes and property. Some have also lost relatives.
• Prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra today said that the situation in Bangkok is now more stable than last week and that the threat of a flooded capital seems to have decreased significantly. She also said that it will take at least three months to build up the affected areas again.
• The famous tourist street Khao San Road has escaped the floods, although the Chao Phraya River is situated nearby.
• Bangkok's deputy governor Thirachon Manomaipibul today said today that 22 districts in Thailand seems to be able to escape the floods. They opened the floodgates in some canals and this dramatically improved the situation in the city. It is said that they have managed to drain ten million cubic meters of water to Bang Pakong river.
October 30, 2011
Bangkok Flooding - Year 1942
There has been substantial flooding in the capital of Thailand before, but would you not agree that it somehow seemed "nicer" then than now?!
BANGKOK FLOODS - ALMOST 70 YEARS AGO
October 29, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 13)
• For once, we are happy to be able to bring you some good news in these hard times. - The water levels in the Chao Phraya River is now slightly lower than yesterday. Thousands of people have contributed to it. A tribute to everyone involved! We are also thinking of all the victims who are forced to leave their flooded homes and are now living in collection centers under very primitive conditions.
• Many supermarkets and hypermarkets in Thailand have a shortage of food and water, due to lack of delivery. This is basically affecting the whole country. Shops and supermarkets are trying to find alternative distributors and delivery options. We will monitor the situation and update with more information, later on.
• 279 gas stations in Thailand are kept closed due to flooding. Most of them are found in Pathum Thani (84 stations) and Ayutthaya (66 stations). These two provinces have been hit particularly hard by the water. According to authorities, there is currently no acute shortage of oil or gasoline in the country.
• The Southern Railway Line (from Bangkok) is reported to operate again. This "southern route" operates Hua Hin and Surat Thani (among other places). The situation can change very quickly, so if you are going by train, we urge you to contact Hualampong (Bangkok's Railway station) or a Thai travel agent to verify that everything is ok.
More information will be added tomorrow.
October 28, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 12)
• Laos donates 192,000 bottles of water to Thailand. Two of the companies behind this noble and generous action are Beer Lao Co Ltd and Dao Ruang Co. Ltd. Thank you!
• Bangkok's central areas and business districts are not flooded by now. However, they might be this weekend or the week ahead, so we advise you NOT to visit Bangkok unless absolutely necessary. Suvarnabhumi Airport is still not affected by the floods.
• Many Bangkok citizens are escaping the floods and this has made the traffic situation more or less chaotic in and around the city. A total of 15 roads have been closed north and west of Bangkok. Military trucks have been deployed to rescue people in distress.
• The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) have announced that the Southern Route (from Bangkok) temporarily is down. The reason is that parts of the tracks are under water just south of Bangkok. Rail traffic to the north is currently not affected. We will keep you updated when the situation changes.
We will update this news blog with more information this weekend.
October 26, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 11)
• Close to 10,000 factories and industries have been damaged by the floods in Thailand. You don't have to be an economist to understand the enormous costs of this situation.
• According to reports, The Chatuchak Market will be closed this weekend. Bangkok's governor will hold a press conference on the situation in the capital, at 8 pm tonight.
• Many Bangkok citizens are (temporarily) fleeing the city. A five-day public holiday has been declared and many domestic flights (for certain destinations) are fully booked right now.
• The water levels on the streets outside the Grand Palace in Bangkok, is at the time of writing, 5-10 cm high. Grand Palace is located relatively close to the Chao Phraya River that winds through Bangkok.
I will update with more information soon.
The Situation in Thailand's Capital
It is now more or less clear that some key parts of the capital city will be flooded. There is simply too much water coming from the north. If you can, you should probably try to avoid Bangkok this weekend. However, Suvarnabhumi Airport is fully operational and it is functioning as normal.
A few hours ago, the prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra said that in case of a worst case scenario situation, the central business districts of Bangkok will be affected by water levels from 10 cm up to 1.5 meters, depending on the area. She also said that the most important factor is the ability of the barriers to keep the water away from downtown Bangkok. Hundreds of thousands of cubic meters of water are putting the pressure on the barriers.
For those of us not directly affected by the floods, it is obviously very difficult to imagine how the affected families feel. In the province of Ayutthaya, the situation is catastrophic for many residents. Many houses and cars are completely filled with water and the rice harvest has been ruined. Our thoughts are with all those affected, especially those who are underprivileged and poor.
• The water in Bangkok's outskirts is expected to rise around 4 pm today. People close to the barriers in the 27 areas that we mentioned earlier, have been warned.
• It is rumored that a very large number of crocodiles is to be found in some flooded areas of the country, as three crocodile farms have been flooded. Some source have mentioned 300,000 crocodiles, while others have dismissed it as excessive.
• The road to Bangkok airport (Suvarnabhumi) is still dry as usual. There are no flooding in this area at the moment.
• The Flood Relief Operation Center - FROC, has been criticized because some people think their warnings to the public have not been sufficiently clear and that they might have risked causing panic instead of offering necessary and constructive advices.
I will continue to update regularly.
October 22, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 9)
• Some areas in Bangkok are now getting affected by the flooding. The water level in the Chao Phraya river (which winds through the capital) has increased dramatically and at the time of writing, it's only about 10 cm left before the water reaches the edge of the barriers. Bangkok's mayor Sukhumbhand Paribatra has urged residents of 27 communities along the river to evacuate. However, the center of Bangkok is NOT affected for now.
• Some residents have hoarded water and food despite authorities' call not to. It's a little ironic that those who followed these requests are those who risk being without this, at least for the moment. The authorities have promised to provide the residents with more food and water in the near future. Businessmen in the capital are stacking sandbags outside their stores, silicon is no longer available at HomePro and motorists are trying to find safe places for their vehicles. A mild sense of panic is setting in in the capital.
• The EU has decided to donate ten million Euros to Thailand because of the flooding. Thank you!
• 356 people have died so far as a result of the floods and two people are missing. 28 provinces (out of 76) are affected, but the provinces in the south are NOT affected.
Further information will be published soon.
October 21, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 8)
• This morning, Yingluck Shinawatra called on the residents in Bangkok to move their belongings to higher ground as a precaution. This is because the authorities will try to ease the pressure and let the water flow more freely in the capital's canals and giant drainage systems.
• UN criticizes the Thai government and the involved authorities' inability to cooperate. Noeleen Heyzer, from UN ESCAP, points out that the main weakness is the abundance of organizations dealing with water management in Thailand. She also pointed out that the eight authorities involved need to cooperate.
• Prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra seems fully aware of the international criticism and calls on all concerned authorities to unite and jointly combat the huge problem.
• Sport stadiums in 28 provinces have been damaged by the water. Some are completely full of water and might be seriously damaged.
Due to the deteriorating situation, we will keep you informed if something important occurs. I understand if you're getting bored of just reading about the flooding. However, I will just focus on it as long as the situation is considered to be critical.
October 20, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 7)
• Yingluck Shinawatra now call on the authorities in Bangkok to open all the dams in order to help to lead the water masses to the ocean. This is of course a very risky decision, because the central parts of the city could be flooded. Among other things, four or more canals are to be used. We'll keep our fingers crossed!
• The water in particular Ayutthaya starts to smell worse and every day the risk of disease transmission increases. So-called banana boats have been sent there to help the local population, but the the taxi boat owners are upset and believe that they are losing revenue because of this. A total of 16 districts in the province are affected by the water masses.
• Japanese investors and businesses wants Thailand to speed up work to mitigate the effects of the floods. Several Japanese-owned factories in Thailand have been forced to temporarily cease production and the water has also caused substantial property damage.
• I'm getting repetitive, but I would again point out that the tourist destinations in the south are NOT affected.
Due to the deteriorating situation, we will update with more information within 12 hours.
Latest News on the Floods (part 6)
• The situation is unfortunately worse now in many of Bangkok's suburbs. In the surrounding provinces of Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, Nonthaburi and Nakhon Pathom the water level is now 50 centimeters on the streets. Many residential areas and industrial areas have been badly affected and hundreds of cars are submerged in water. So far, 320 people have died as a result of the rain and floods.
• The Expressway Authority of Thailand have offered car owners to park their cars at nine locations in the capital. The cost of damaged and destroyed vehicles will be huge.
• Prime Yingluck Shinawatra now says that parts of Bangkok can not be saved from the water. She says that they will have have to lead the water through some suburbs to the Gulf of Siam. Governor Sukumpan Boripat says he remains convinced that the water can be controlled so the central parts of the city will not be affected.
• Residents of Bangkok are urged to NOT stock up groceries, but only buy what they need, short-term.
Due to the deteriorating situation, we will get back with more details during the day.
October 18, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 5)
• Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yoobumrung has ordered the police to protect vulnerable areas to prevent looting and other criminal activities. Some residents in the evacuation areas have refused to leave their homes because they are afraid of burglary and looting.
• Hospitals in Bangkok have been asked to reserve at least five percent of their beds for people affected by the floods.
• The Airports of Thailand (AoT), which is responsible for some of the largest airports in the country, says that Suvarnabhumi Airport will NOT be affected by the floods. The airport is surrounded by a 3.5 meter high wall that protects the airport from the water.
• Lots of garbage and waste are floating around in the water in Navanakorn and other cities and villages affected by the floods. This increases the risk of disease transmission in these areas.
October 17, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 4)
• Bangkok's mayor Sukhumbhand Paribatra says that the capital cannot yet be considered as completely safe. So far, only 81 people have been evacuated in the capital, but the situation remains critical in some suburbs. However, the center of city is considered as secured and safe. Again, we need to inform you that NONE of the popular tourist destinations in the south (including Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi, Pattaya, Koh Chang, Koh Samet, Koh Phangan, etc.) have been affected by the floods.
• Nearly 2,000 Thai temples have been affected or damaged by the water. Unfortunately, many of these are historic and important temples, such as in Ayutthaya. Estimates suggest that it will cost many hundreds of millions of baht to restore them. About 20,000 monks are also affected.
• Health officials says that nearly 100,000 people suffer from stress or even mental problems caused by the water chaos in the country. More than a thousand need urgent care. The Department of Mental Health will collect data from the affected provinces and districts, in order to be able to offer adequate help to those in need.
• There is a shortage of chicken in many grocery stores and markets in the country due to the floods. Also the price of chicken has risen significantly in many places. Many chicken farmers have been hit hard and many birds have died.
October 14, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 3)
• Thailand's economy is expected to grow by 3.1 to 3.5% this year. This is according to market analysts Frost & Sullivan who previously predicted an economic growth of 4%. The deterioration in growth is largely a direct result of the flooding in the country.
• Thailand's finance minister says that he believes that the costs of the floods may be higher than the previous estimate of 60-90 billion baht.
• Authorities say they don't believe that Bangkok will be flooded, but this weekend will be crucial. It has been raining a lot in the capital, but so far the water is no real problem. However, the water levels are high in many canals in Bangkok.
• Germany donates 1.7 million baht to help those affected by floods in Thailand.
October 13, 2011
Latest News on the Floods (part 2)
• The authorities are now warning the citizens in northern Bangkok for high water (up to one meter in some places) because of the floods. This applies to the areas of Saimai, Rangsit, Klong Luang, and Lamlukka. Those who live in one-storey buildings should consider to move temporarily. The warning does not apply to the center of the capital.
• Residents in Pathum Thani are urged to move to higher land after a dam burst.The province (and city) of Pathum Thani is situated just north of Bangkok.
• According to the latest weather forecasts, it may rain a lot the coming week in Isaan (northeastern Thailand) and in the central parts of the country. This might further aggravate the flood crises.
• Also animals are affected by the floods. Many dogs, cats and cattle have died and are floating around in the water, which obviously increases the risk of diseases. Many animal lovers have organized rescue operations to save stranded animals.
October 11, 2011
Latest News on the Floods
• About one hundred crocodiles have escaped from a crocodile farm in central Thailand. Fortunately, they are considered to be less aggressive than wild crocodiles and also more scared of humans.
• The Thai Cabinet has granted two billion baht in order to evacuate people affected by the water.
• Many villagers in the province of Ayutthaya are completely isolated and are reported to need immediate help.
• Generous Thais have donated record amounts to their countrymen affected by the floods, through various fundraisers.
October 10, 2011
30 Provinces Affected by the Water
30 provinces, predominantly in northern Thailand, have been hit hard by the floods. So far, 269 people have been confirmed as dead and four are missing. Evacuation centers have been established in strategic locations.
Also the material damage is great in many places. A single example is the car plant in Ayutthaya where hundreds of newly built Honda cars are buried in water.
Weather forecasts suggest that Bangkok might be affected by floods next week. We will update you regularly.
NOTE: At present the tourist destinations in the south are unaffected (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Pattaya, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Koh Samet, Koh Chang, Koh Lipe, etc.)
October 8, 2011
Initially Sentenced to 146 Years
A 26-year-old Thai woman posted ads on the net where she proclaimed that she had wildly popular Blythe Dolls dolls at a very reasonable price. However, the doll collectors paid, but no Blythe Dolls showed up in their mailboxes. It was simply a case of fraud.
The woman was arrested and initially sentenced to 146 years in prison. However, the sentence was converted to 20 years but she also will have to pay back more than 20 million baht to the people she cheated! The business idea was not so brilliant after all.
SOURCE: THE NATION
A BLYTHE DOLL - Photo by: Asian Designers
October 7, 2011
Our Hotel Tip: Mid Budget in Samui
Promtsuk Buri is one of my favorite resorts in Koh Samui. I live in a house and not in a hotel, but I have several friends who have stayed there during their holiday and I often pass through the area. This small hotel is situated north of Lamai next to a small but cozy beach called Ao Tongtakian (or "Silver Beach").
The reasons that I (and many of my friends) like this place are:
1. The Location - In the middle of Ao Tong Takian
2. The Bungalows - Well built and "the right size"
3. The Area - Taken care of admirably well
4. The Rates - Relatively affordable
Promtsuk Buri has also got very good reviews from visitors in our hotel reservation service. However, there is an obvious disadvantage, the resort has no pool at the present time.
AO TONG TAKIAN JUST BEFORE DUSK - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
252 Dead by the the Recent Floods
As a result of the recent flooding in Thailand, the death toll has now risen to 252. In addition, three people are missing. The Ministry of Defense will now send an additional 8000 soldiers to the affected areas.
A map showing the extent of the flooding:
October 4, 2011
Facebook Prevented Suicide?
A 35-year-old woman in Pattaya wrote on her Facebook page that she intended to take her own life. A friend (and obvious a hero) called the police, who managed to get into the woman's apartment on Naklua Road. She had consumed a large dose of Valium, but was taken to hospital. Neighbors say that she often quarreled with her foreign husband, but that he had left Thailand three days earlier.
SOURCE: PATTAYA ONE
October 3, 2011
Thai Economy Expected to Weaken
According to a poll conducted by The Bangkok University Poll, leading economic experts believe that the Thai economy will weaken in the near future. It is primarily the private sector (including the tourism industry) that are expected to experience a decline.
SOURCE: NATIONAL NEWS BUREAU OF THAILAND
Yingluck Cancels Twitter Account
PM Yingluck Shinawatra has decided to stop updating her Twitter micro-blog for now. Her account is temporarily down and the authorities are looking for the person who managed to hack the account.
Yingluck described the attack as a "violation of people's personal rights".
October 2, 2011
Yingluck's Twitter Account Hacked
Many of those who follow Prime Yingluck Shinawatra's twittering were probably surprised or even shocked this morning. The latest posts (written in Thai) were in fact really "self-critical" and questioned her own competence. The final tweet (loosely translated): "If you can not protect your own Twitter, how can you protect this country?".
During the late evening, the account was still in the wrong hands, but it was closed at 11pm was closed, at least temporarily.
October 1, 2011
More than 24.000 Receive Higher Pay
24.419 Thai workers will get a salary increase, starting today, because of the promised increase in the minimum wage to 300 baht per day. This represents a total of 23.9 million baht per day.
SOURCE: THE NATION
September 30, 2011
IKEA Opening Soon - Catalog Out
Yesterday I passed IKEA Bangna, or what will soon be IKEA's first store in Thailand, as the construction workers still are working. The future furniture store is scheduled to open on November 3 this year and it is located only six kilometers from Suvarnabhumi Airport, next to Bangna-Trad Road.
The department store will be enormous (as usual), or 40.000 square meters. IKEA catalogs were handed out at Siam Square in Bangkok.
Our thoughts: "The marketing war" has begun. It will be interesting to see how other furniture store chains in Thailand such as Index, Winner, SB etc will do to meet the new competition in Bangkok from the Swedish giant. Personally, I think IKEA will be a success even in Thailand, not least among the urban middle class, partly because it's growing rapidly in Bangkok and the surrounding areas.
A video of the area before the construction started:
THE LOCATION OF IKEA, BEFORE THE CONSTRUCTION STARTED
September 29, 2011
Kohsamui.org - 6 Million Visits
Our most popular website, Kohsamui.org, had its sixth millionth visit yesterday. The site was started as a hobby project in 1998, but is today one of the most visited sites on a single destination in Thailand. 250,000 hotel nights so far have been booked through the site since the hotel reservation service was introduced, almost ten years ago.
On many thai islands water shortages can be significant during dry periods. The problem is in fact so serious that many households periodically might be without running water.
Golf courses and hotels with many or large pools requires millions of liters of water each year and the more golf courses and luxury hotels that are built, the more serious the problem might be.
You can personally do a lot of water saving during your Thailand Holiday:
• Use towels and linen for an extra day
• Use the shower instead of the bathtub
• Close the tap while brushing your teeth
• Support environmentally friendly businesses
Your contribution is important, but also local entrepreneurs, politicians and hotel owners have a great responsibility to conserve the vital fluid of H2O, which we unfortunately tend to take for granted.
September 23, 2011
At least 136 Dead in Floods
At least 136 people have died in floods in Thailand that started in late July. A total of 23 provinces and more than 400,000 households have been affected.
September 19, 2011
Six Pack Instead of Beer Belly
Traditional Muay Thai (Thaiboxing in Thai) smells of lineaments, old boxing gloves and sweat. The training tempo is high and if you want to become a professional fighter, complete devotion is required. This means no more late nights at the clubs and your eating habits may be changed if you happen to be overweight.
In most camps (Thai boxing clubs) the boxers train twice a day, but some devoted fighters are doing three sessions. However, "hobby performers" and some beginners usually do just a few workouts a week.
Usually the training session begins with running a few miles on the highway. Then the boxers do rope skipping and shadow boxing, followed by the important target mitt training. This means that the coach holds the hard "pillows" that the student strikes, knees, elbows and kicks on for a number of rounds. Quite often rounded with lots of fast round kick to improve the student's speed, strength and endurance. Sparring, sit ups and pushups usually end the workout, and those who are not tired after that either has a condition of a world-class marathon runner, either the coach has been too "nice".
Most camps accept foreign students nowadays. Prices vary greatly but 2000-3000 baht a month is not unusual in tourist destinations. The number of camps are enormous and the tourist usually have no problem to find somewhere to train with some expert coaching.
Do you prefer a six-pack instead of a beer belly after your long vacation? Give Thaiboxing a try! You do not have to be in top shape when you start. Also entirely untrained people can become good boxers if they give it a real try. You'll get friends as well, perhaps for life.
September 18, 2011
Our Hotel Tip: Mid Budget in Bangkok
In my twenties, I stayed on the cheap backpacker places in the Banglamphu area when I visited the Thai capital. However, ten years ago, I started searching for accommodation in the Silom and lower Sukhumvit areas.
For about five years ago "discovered" the small hotel Aspen Suites, located on Sukhumvit Soi 2, and I really liked it. The rooms are relatively large and admirably clean, equipped with free internet access and large modern television sets and a small kitchen with full size refrigerators. The breakfast is maybe not a great culinary sensation, but more than ok for a hotel in this price range.
I like to exercise and the hotel gym is small, but it's enough for my needs when I want to sweat. The hotel's location is ideal for me. A quiet area, but only a few hundred meters from the intensity of Sukhumvit Road. The hotel staff is usually very helpful and courteous.
Are there any drawbacks? Well, of course. The pool is minimal and the sun beds are few. Moreover, the pool area is often shaded because the facade obscures the sun's rays. But overall, In my opinion, Aspen Suites is one of the most affordable mid-range hotels in Bangkok.
Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister Chumpol Silpa-Archa has stated the goal of 30 million tourists in Thailand by 2015. This would double the current number! 2011-2012 goes by the slogan "Miracle Thailand" and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has applied for eight billion baht for a campaign to further promote tourism.
Our thoughts: It's ok to have ambitious goals, but to double it in four years? Well, we'll see...
September 4, 2011
UK Killer Extradited to Thailand?
The British citizen Lee Aldhouse is expected to be extradited to Thailand on suspicion of murder of an American marine soldier in Phuket last year. After the murder Lee fled to the UK via Cambodia, but was arrested at Heathrow Airport.
Thailand has confirmed that the death penalty will not be imposed, which was a requirement for Britain to agree to the extradition.
My name is Jens and I was born in the early seventies in Södertälje, Sweden. I traveled for the first time to Thailand in 1989-1990 and already then started to have strong (positive) feelings for the country and it's people. During subsequent trips, it was mainly beach-life and Muay Thai training on the agenda but as time has gone by a strong interest regarding Thailand's history, community and culture has emerged within me. In early 2004, I moved here permanently.
My wife Rawadee is indirectly involved in the writing and contributes with knowledge, facts and inspiration. We try to alternate daily news from the country with our own reflections. The news and blog are illustrated with some photos, both my own and others. I hope you'll find the reading somewhat useful and I am of course open to your comments, suggestions and criticisms.
We are full-time geeks. Jens is working with web development, search engine optimization, graphic design and photography. Rawadee had a computer shop before, but is now also working with web development.
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February 15, 2012
