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.
September 3, 2010
All-Time High on the Thai Stock Market
Today the Thai stock index ended with the highest numbers in 14 years. Also the market capitalization reached a record high seven billion Baht.
SOURCE: TULSATHIT TAPTIM (THE NATION) ON TWITTER
Marathon held in Koh Samui
On September 19, Princess's Cup - Samui Island Marathon, will be held with Bangkok Airways as the main sponsor. Three million baht will be given out in prize money, which is the largest amount in a Thai marathon, so far.
Participants can choose between four classes and races: marathon, half marathon, quarter marathon and student marathon.
The Thaksin Story Continues
Thaksin Shinawatra has made new statements in the newspaper Thai Rath and said:
"People lie about me all the time and if you believe in these lies you should ask yourself if there is something wrong with yourself".
He specifically denied that he was sick and when asked whether he still worked as an advisor to Cambodia, Thaksin answered:
"Not anymore. Let me do something else. I should do something for myself. They stole half of my fortune so I have to do it to feed my children".
Thaksin also said that he wished he would have the opportunity to return to Thailand in the future, but that peace and reconciliation in the country was more important.
SOURCE: THAI RATH - ไทยรัฐ
September 2, 2010
Yah Dong and Wooden Elephants
Yah dong is made from cheap Thai rice spirit (Lao Khao), flavored with herbs and sometimes other various ingredients intended to strengthen the consumer's health. The drink is considered to possess healing properties, if the dosage and consumption are moderate.
I personally think that Lao Khao tastes rather awful because it is poorly filtered, so I do my herbal spirit with ordinary vodka. It must remain in the bottle (shown below) for a couple of months. Later on I intend to pour it into two 75-centiliter bottles in the office.
The taste? Well, not bad at all! A bit like Jägermeister, which also contains herbs. Are you passing the office and is over 18, feel welcome to try. I can also design logotypes ;-)
Miniature Language School:
• ยาดอง - Yah dong - Fermented herbal spirit
• เหล้าขาว - Lao khao - "White spirits"
• ช้าง - Chaang - Elephant
• ลูกช้าง - Luuk chaang - Calf Elephant
The elephants in the background of the image are carved out an entire piece of wood. I bought them for a few days ago from a good Thai friend who sells Buddhist jewelry, statues and various antiques in Koh Samui. This is his website (in Thai language).
ELEPHANTS AND HERBAL SPIRIT - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
A "BUDDHA SHOP" IN KOH SAMUI - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
GANESHA, HINDU "ELEPHANT GOD" - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
September 1, 2010
New month - More Posts!
I've had a lot of lots going to do with many different web project in August, so this news blog has been suffering a bit. But from tomorrow, I'll change that. I promise to deliver plenty of current news updates and personal reflections this month.
Below is a picture of my wife who probably is the kindest person in the world and we have now been a couple for nine years. She turned thirty this year, but still look like twenty-two. I am positive she'll love that comment.
IN A NATIONAL PARK, KHAO LAK - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
August 30, 2010
Robber Escaped with 8 Million Baht
An armed robber escaped with eight million baht after stealing two bags of banknotes outside the UOB Bank in Khon Kaen. He disappeared from the scene on a motorbike.
Landslide Victory for The Democrats
The Democrats won a landslide victory in yesterday's district election, although only 42 percent of the electorate is said to have voted. Here are the results:
• Democrat Party: 210 seats
• Pheu Thai Party (PTP): 39 seats
• New Politics Party (NPP): 0 seats
Our thoughts: Should you make a bit sloppy and spontaneous analysis, one can sense that the residents of Bangkok residents generally were tired of BOTH Thaksin Shinawatra and his "rival", Sondhi Limthongkul.
DEMOCRAT PARTY LOGO - Copyright: The Democrat Party, Thailand
August 28, 2010
Phuket-killing Suspect Arrested
Aldhouse Lee, who is suspected of the murder of a 23-year-old American in Phuket two weeks ago has been arrested by British police. Lee reportedly fled to a small border post in Trat Province and succeeded in getting into Cambodia. Then he booked a flight to London, but was arrested at Heathrow Airport.
Thai authorities and police are expected to apply to have Lee extradited for trial in Thailand.
August 24, 2010
63 Billion for Suvarnabhumi Expansion
Thailand's Cabinet has granted 63 billion baht for the expansion of Suvarnabhumi International Airport, according to Transport Minister Sophon Saram.
The expansion is scheduled for completion in 2016 and the capacity is expected to increase from 45 million passengers a year currently, to 60 million passengers annually in 2016.
Dissatisfaction over Autopsy Report
Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has just released its preliminary autopsy report of those killed during the riots in Bangkok in May.
Relatives have expressed dissatisfaction over the report because the lack of details or explanations of the deaths. DSI has announced that the report is only preliminary and that a more complete report will be presented to the public later on.
SOURCE: THE NATION
August 23, 2010
Airport Link Kicked Off this Morning
Today at 6:00 am, the first train began to operate the 28 kilometer track between Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Makkasan in central Bangkok. There are two lines. The Express Line runs non-stop between the airport and Makkasan, and the City Line stops at all eight stations on the route.
Until New Year, all passengers are offered a discounted price. The Express Line costs 100 baht per person and the City Line costs only 15 baht, regardless of the distance.
From January 1, 2011, the tickets to the Express Line will increase to 150 Baht and the City Line tickets will cost 15-45 baht, depending on how long the trip is.
Here are my personal tips for you who are going to shoot pictures in Thailand, Southeast Asia or countries near the equator. The last three paragraphs are general advice on photography:
1. As the sun is strong during the day you'll usually take the best pictures in the morning (before 10am) and in the late afternoon (after 4pm). 20-40 minutes before sunset, the light tends to be particularly beneficial and can result in some really nice photos.
2. A lens hood, ND filter or a polarizing filter is recommended if the sun is shining strongly. If it is still too bright, try to shoot with flash. Preferably an external one, as many cameras are equipped with rather bad built-in flashes.
3. Most often, pictures of local people and their daily life are at least as interesting as beach photos and pictures of your travel companions. Use a zoom lens so you get close to people without "disturbing" them. Close-ups of people are often more interesting than the full view.
4. Take many pictures! With the digital camera breakthrough about ten years ago, you do not require expensive photographic processing or prints nowadays. Therefore, take as many pictures as you can, and delete the ones you are not satisfied with. The more you take, the greater your chances of success and a minor masterpiece.
5. Cameras are generally cheap nowadays. I would recommend you to invest in a pretty good digital SLR if you enjoy photography. Normally you'll learn the basic functions in an hour or two if you read the instruction book.
6. A photo is not better than the photographers ability to compose images in the viewfinder. If you strive to get good pictures, this is as important as mastering the technology. Artistry and harmony is certainly more important than megapixels. There are many good books on the subject and on the internet you will find "courses", tips and forum threads that deal with the issue.
7. In order to get sharp pictures, it is important that the camera is steady. Learn how to keep it steady in a firm grip with bottom elbow close to your body for optimum control. Use a tripod at slow shutter speeds and buy a good tripod that allows some rough treatment. There are a lot of tripod-test found online and in photo magazines.
BOY DRESSED IN CAP ON A FERRY - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
August 20, 2010
JAS Gripen - Now Also in Thailand
A Swedish produced fighter aircraft, JAS 39 Gripen (Griffin), was delivered to Thailand this week. In the near future, five additional aircrafts will be delivered, as agreed.
Australian "Red-Shirt" Released
Australian citizen Conor David Purcell, who took part in the Red Shirts' protests last spring, has now been released after six weeks of imprisonment. He says he is relieved and is now expected to be deported from Thailand back to his homeland.
August 19, 2010
Thai Economy Expected to Grow
The Thai economy is expected to grow by up to 7.2% this year, according to Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI). This despite the uncertain economic situation in many parts of the world. TDRI also predicts that the Thai economy will continue to grow in 2011. The inflation rate is predicted to stay between 2 to 3.6 percent next year.
SOURCE: TAN NETWORK
August 17, 2010
Five Red-Shirts Refused Bail by Court
Five Red Shirt leaders, Nutthawut Saikua, Yossawarit Chu-klom, Kwanchai Praipana, Wiputhalaeng Patthanapumthai and Nisit Sinthuprai were refused to be released on bail today.
August 16, 2010
Truly Important News
If something very newsworthy happens in Thailand, we will update you with much more information than normally. We are in place in Thailand and are able to write almost around the clock.
Examples of past events in Thailand of this dignity are the military's storming of the red shirt camp 2010 and the 2004 Tsunami, but also general elections, and similar important events.
Since we are only two people and not a news agency, We reserve the right to not write in case of illness or circumstances beyond our control.
At Least Two Dead in Building Collapse
At least one construction worker died and at least ten were injured when the ongoing construction of Burapha University, in the province of Chonburi, collapsed last night. This morning the search for survivors continued, with military assistance.
The construction, which has lasted almost a year, collapsed when 500 tonnes of concrete was poured on the second floor, according to reports. Police say five individuals could face charges.
August 14, 2010
Young American Murdered in Phuket
A 23-year-old U.S. citizen was stabbed to death this morning near the beach Ya Nui, located in the south of Phuket. The American had earlier in the day got into a fight with an 28-year-old Englishman at a local place named Freedom Bar.
The Englishman followed the American and attacked him with a knife at his apartment. The local police are on a manhunt for the suspect who is known for working out in a local Muay Thai gym and his occasionally violent behavior.
We will publish more details once we know more.
TAT Answers Your Questions
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched a round-the-clock telephone helpline in a number of countries. It is intended to help tourists who have questions concerning their holiday in Thailand.
Sweden +46840838833 UK: +442033550430 or 02033550430 USA: +15166196810 or 5166196810 Japan: +81345209521 or 0345209521 Australia: +61280147129 or 0280147129
SOURCE: SCANDASIA.COM
Our thoughts: Thumbs up for TAT!
AT CHANGI AIRPORT - Photo and graphics by: Jens W, Yenit.com
August 13, 2010
American Couple Convicted of Bribery
78-year-old Gerald Green and his 55-year-old wife Patricia have been sentenced to six months in prison plus an additional six months of house arrest. The couple will also have to repay approximately 8 million baht.
The couple is accused of bribing former Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Juthamas Siriwan, to be able to continue to organize the annual Bangkok International Film Festival.
August 12, 2010
Interviewing Myself
Question: What is your worst quality? Answer: I am very stubborn.
Question: What is your best quality? Answer: I am very stubborn.
Question: Why do you live in Thailand? You're farang! Answer: I just enjoy my life here in many aspects. I feel free, which stimulate creativity.
Question: Wasn't that a pretentious answer? Answer: Probably, I'm just trying to be honest!
Question: Can you be completely honest to yourself? Answer: Probably not, which makes this pointless.
Question: So we end this now? Answer: Yes, please!
HM Sirikit's Birthday and Mother's Day
HM Queen Sirikit is celebrating her 78'th birthday today and we would like to wish her a great day and a very long and happy life. We would also would like to wish all mothers a really nice and relaxed Thai Mother's Day.
There have been many cases of dengue fever in Thailand this year and it is important to be aware about this, especially during the rainy season.
Dengue fever is a viral disease that is spread indirectly from person-to-person, via the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), which is primarily diurnal. Dengue is therefore not transmitted directly between humans, but does require a mosquito carrying the virus.
The disease is divided in four subgroups and the incubation period is about five to ten days (ie the time from the mosquito's bite until the disease breaks out). Some will have a mild illness with fever, while others may have more serious symptoms such as headaches, rashes, bleedings, joint and muscle pain.
To avoid the disease, try to avoid mosquito bites if possible. Use mosquito repellent, long sleeves and long pants in areas where mosquitoes thrive. This may be around wells and ponds, in leafy areas, under restaurant tables, etc.
ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITO - Photo by: James Gathany, CDC
Phuket Resort Sold for 2.62 Billion Baht
The luxury resort Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket has been sold for the neat sum of 2.62 billion baht. Buyers are Bangkok-based Dusit Thani Public Company Limited, which owns a total of 19 resorts in Asia.
SOURCE: THEPHUKETINSIDER.COM AND PHUKET GAZETTE
August 10, 2010
Foreigners Busted with Crystal Meth
An Iranian man was recently arrested outside a serviced apartment hotel on Asoke Road in Bangkok. The police then seized nine kilograms of crystallized methamphetamine, also known as ice, in his apartment.
A Spanish woman was arrested yesterday at Suvarnabhumi Airport with three kilograms of the same narcotic substance. She made a stopover in Bangkok and was en route from Ghana to Indonesia.
The drugs from the two seizures is estimated to be worth around 35-40 million Baht on the street.
Our thoughts: Ice is considered one of the most of the most harmful drugs as an addict often suffer severe physical and psychological damage after only a relatively short period of drug abuse.
The penalties for possession and trafficking are very, very harsh in Thailand, but this does not stop some people from trying. Since the doses are small, very high profits are made per gram and desperate (and naive) couriers choose to risk life imprisonment (and indirect killing drug addicts) to improve their own economic situation. That's pure insanity!
If you follow this news blog frequently, you have probably noticed that the police have arrested several people recently and this is only the tip of the iceberg. The situation is rather alarming because the drug is sometimes not only harmful to the user but also to his close relatives and friends, because of violent behavior and mental disorders.
August 7, 2010
A Third of Thais are Overweight
40% of Thai women and 28.4% of Thai men over fifteen years are overweight. This according to the Health Systems Research Institute. The problem of obesity is no longer solely a problem of "the West" but also in Asia.
SOURCE: NATIONAL NEWS BUREAU OF THAILAND
Our thoughts: The junk food culture and lack of physical activity are the culprit here. Many children and young people are sitting at the computer instead of being out playing. They are using their mobile phones instead of visiting their friends and eat sugary and fatty foods, instead of the traditional healthy Thai food. It is exactly the same phenomenon that hit Western Europe, USA and Australia about 20-25 years ago.
The problem is serious. The risk of cardiovascular and vascular diseases are significantly higher if you are overweight, and health care is expensive, both for the individual and the society.
To be honest, I also gained too much weight after I moved to Thailand 6.5 years ago. In my case, the causes were a sedentary job, relatively large meals with high-calorie foods and perhaps a bit too many after-work beer at times. In addition, metabolism slows down when you're getting older. Until I was thirty I could eat pan pizza every day and still keep myself fairly thin. That is no longer the case. Unfortunately.
Six months ago I almost stopped completely to eat pork and beef (I sometimes "cheat") and I eat much more vegetables than before. I also workout at the gym regularly and take long walks or do shadow-boxing a few hours a week, in total. My personal long-term goal is to lose 5 kilos in total by adding five kilos of lean muscle mass, while losing 10 kilos of fat. At this date, I am halfway there. I'll post a photo to prove it when my goals are achieved.
The fact that you feel better and more energetic may classify as a reward for the effort.
STRIVE TO LIVE AN ACTIVE LIFE - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
August 6, 2010
Bueng Karn - New Thai Province
Bueng Karn (also spelled as Bung Kan) becomes Thailand's 77th province. The new province will be separated from Nong Khai in northeastern Thailand, near the border with Laos.
SMALL GUY ANALYSING HIS LOLLIPOP - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
KOH LANTA RESORT DOG - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
August 5, 2010
ATM Frauds in Thailand
Criminal gangs have recently cheated Thais by various ATM frauds.
A method has been to call the victim and claim that the account must be reactivated through an ATM. The Impostor then gives instructions meant to transfer money to the impostor's account.
The gangs have also convinced people to open new accounts in Thai banks and they have then paid the legitimate holder between 500-1000 baht for the right to take over the bank account and the associated ATM card.
Over one hundred people have already been arrested, suspected of being involved in the fraud.
Our thoughts: The same types of fraud, which began to flourish in Europe about 15 years ago, now exists in Thailand. Be careful with your money, even if you're here for a holiday in the sun.
August 3, 2010
Almost 13% More Visitors to Thailand
The tourist arrivals to Thailand has increased after a few years of economic downturn. In July this year 12,7% more visitors arrived in Thailand than in the corresponding period last year. The information comes from Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which presents statistics on tourism regularly.
Our thoughts: I also experience an increased number of visitors this year. I see both a boom in our hotel reservation service, and it seems to be more foreigners in Koh Samui and on Koh Phangan, compared with 2009.
TOURISM IS ALSO "WAKING UP" - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
WAITING FOR THE PHANGAN FERRY - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
August 2, 2010
Increased Inflation Rate in Thailand
Inflation in Thailand rose to 3.4% in July. This is probably mainly due to the expectations of a new interest rate hike by the Thai Central Bank.
Energy Minister Defends Drilling
Thailand's Energy Minister Wannarat Channukul has defended Chevron plans to drill for gas and / or oil in the Gulf of Thailand, not far from the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
Channukul argued that the risks of natural disasters were very small because the drilling takes place in relatively shallow water, unlike the case with the explosion at the Deepwater Horizon rig and the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
Our thoughts: It is possible that the energy minister is right about the security, but is it really ethical to allow oil drilling platforms near these truly unique island and also close to a national marine park? Personally I think the politicians who support this project should give it another thought.
PROTEST AGAINST DRILLING, JULY 31- Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
August 1, 2010
That Was Close!
It is important to adopt a safety-first mentality while staying in Thailand. Four times, I've almost got seriously injured or even close to being sent to the happy hunting grounds (or simply the grave).
1990 - I fell down a well in Koh Samet as a teenager, but got my arms out. I alerted people in the neighborhood and they quickly came to the rescue and pulled me up.
1997 - A heavy green coconut fell from a high palm tree a few feet behind me, where I just passed. The ground trembled.
2003 - I accidentally walked out in front of a speeding concrete truck in Koh Samui, which, fortunately, managed to stop just in front of me. I felt stupid and relieved at the same time which probably is a fairly normal reaction. Thanks to the driver who I think saved my life!
2005 - I was swimming when a storm blew in. I immediately felt that it was dangerous. I focused and managed to get to the beach. My feet were bleeding from sharp corals, but that was a trifle.
July 30, 2010
Protest Tomorrow in Koh Samui
Tomorrow, Saturday, a protest will be held because of the U.S. energy company Chevron plans to drill for oil, and / or gas in the Gulf of Thailand, relatively close to the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. The idea is that the Samui residents will hold hands around the island ring road.
The event will take place between 10 am and noon. Everyone (inhabitants as well as tourists) are welcome to attend.
July 27, 2010
Security Tightened after Big C Bomb
The security has been tightened after a M67 grenade exploded outside a supermarket in Bangkok on Sunday. This according to the Centre for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation (CRES). The tightened security measures applies primarily in shopping malls, bus stations, skytrain stations and underground stations.
One person was killed and eight injured in the terrorist attack. No one has been arrested at this time.
July 26, 2010
Khao Phansa - พรรษา
Tomorrow is the start of Khao Phansa which marks the start of the rainy season and the Buddhist Lent. Many choose to become monks at this time and the already existing monks are restricted to their temple where they study and meditate. Also some "ordinary" Thais refrain from meat, alcohol and tobacco during this time.
In Ubon Ratchathani a Candle Festival is held with giant carved beeswax candles in fantastic shapes appear in parades and are displayed on boats. The candles are often sculpted in the form of religious and traditional Thai symbols and creatures.
Four Iranian nationals were arrested at Suvarnabhumi International Airport for smuggling ya ice, or crystal methamphetamine, to Thailand.
The quartet were arrested after a tip-off and X-ray showed that they had 11 small packets of the drug in their stomachs. It came out to be 1 kilogram of ice in total, which is equivalent to a street value of about 3.5 million Baht.
July 20, 2010
Apologize Thailand!
A controversial and emotional "TV commercial" (produced by independent media) has been stopped from being shown on Thai television, when it perceived as having the potential to bring new conflicts in the country.
However, the present government issued a statement saying that they are not behind the censorship, but instead Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said they should consider approving the film for television.
Khothod Prathet Thai - Apologize Thailand
July 19, 2010
American Confessed to Murder
The U.S. citizen Ronald Fanelli has confessed to the murder of a 33-year-old Thai woman in Phuket. She was found June 24 in a black plastic bag and she was killed by stabbing. Afterwards, the American broke her arms in order to fit the body in plastic bag.
The perpetrator blamed the attack intoxication, frustration over a recent divorce, but also for the poor internet connection!
Please note: Ronald Fanelli admitted to the murder and the crime is of a very serious nature, so I have chosen to publish his name. Our thoughts are primarily with the dead woman's relatives, but also with the offender's relatives as Ronald probably will have to spend the rest of his life in prison. Even if he is sentenced to death, executions of foreign nationals are very rare in Thailand.
July 17, 2010
Water Levels Safe in Bhumibol Dam
As I wrote earlier, it has been very dry in the country in recent months. Now, however, the water in the Bhumibol dam reached a level deemed sufficient for agricultural needs.
Our thoughts: Hurray!
Customs finds 117 Elephant Tusks
The Customs at Suvarnabhumi (Thailand's main airport) has seized 117 elephant tusks smuggled from Kenya to Thailand. On the illegal market they are estimated to be worth almost 40 million baht. So far, no arrests have been made.
Our thoughts: It is perhaps not until substantially all the rainforest is gone and there are only few wild animals left that even the majority of humans will understand how we are destroying this planet. Money, greed and power are in control of so many people, even a blind man can see that.
Also, I write about value of the tusks, not about the elephants which has been sacrificed for the greed of unscrupulous people.
Police in China, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand arrested 5,000 people for illegal betting on the recent World Cup in South Africa. The police raided more than 800 gambling dens, that had handled more than 150 million dollars.
July 14, 2010
Swede Arrested for Making 'Ya Ice'
A 29-year-old Swedish citizen living in Rayong has been arrested for having produced and sold crystal meth, known in Thailand as ya ice. He has manufactured the drug in its own laboratory at home. The drugs have since been sold to the U.S. and Europe.
The man is suspected of having earned about three million baht a month from his business. Since the penalties for serious drug offenses are very severe in Thailand, he can probably expect many years in Thai jail.
Ya Ice has become increasingly common in the country and is usually inhaled through a plastic bottle. The drug is highly addictive and has proven to be very harmful to people who use it regularly. Rotting teeth, damaged heart valves, high blood pressure and even heart attack is some of the physical ailments that can affect an user.
CRYSTAL METH - Photo by: Radspunk
The Police Seized 10.000 Handbags
In a raid in Chakrawat area of Bangkok, 10,000 handbags were seized with an estimated value of about 10 million baht. According to the police the bags were either counterfeits, or alternatively, smuggled into the country without being taxed. The shopkeeper was arrested in raid.
SOURCE: TAN NETWORK
Ex. Swedish Prisoner on Hunger Strike
Ten years ago, a Swedish citizen, Behnam "Benny" Moafi, was sentenced to 22 years in prison in Thailand. He was accused of extortion and armed robbery. He was, however, released after almost half his sentence, but has always maintained his innocence.
While in prison he studied law and did finally receive a law degree. Still, he demands reparation. Therefore, he began a hunger strike outside the Government building in Bangkok a month ago. He is still dressed in a Thai jail shirt and has chains around the ankles during the demonstration.
SOURCE: SCANDASIA.COM
July 13, 2010
Inappropriately Dressing
Thai female college students should not wear too short skirts or show too much skin. It said Charnwit Thapsuwan, director of the The Office of the Private Education Commission. They have received public complaints about some female students.
Note: The woman in the picture below is not directly related to the article.
YOUNG STUDENT IN THE CAPITAL - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
Speed Catamaran to Koh Samui
Lomprayah's speed catamaran will start its operations on the route Donsak (east of Surat Thani) to Koh Samui from the July 24. The travel time is estimated at 45 minutes and can be compared with the car ferries (Raja Ferry and Seatran) which takes about twice the time.
A CATAMARAN FROM LOMPRAYAH - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
July 12, 2010
More Passengers at Suvarnabhumi
The number of passengers at Suvarnabhumi International Airport (Bangkok's international airport) increased by 19.5%, the period October 2009-June 2010, compared to the same period last year.
Our thoughts: The airport occupation by PAD (the yellow-shirts) but also the protests by the red-shirts this year has to be taken into consideration when looking at the statistics. However, the increase might be a sign that the Thailand tourism is slowly recovering.
SHOP ASSISTANT AT SUVARNABHUMI - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
July 11, 2010
Water Shortage in Thailand
As I wrote earlier in this blog (June 14), there is severe water shortage in large parts of Thailand and so also on Koh Samui. A few days ago the water was finished at home and we ordered two thousand liters to our private water cistern.
Unfortunately, the tank truck arrived late at night when we were sleeping and I must have forgotten to close the tap (as no water came). In the morning, more than a thousand liters of water had unnecessarily gone down the drain. This is equivalent to seven full bathtubs. Not that clever!
But our water supplier is more than delighted. He earns around 15.000 baht A DAY during this water shortage. That's about fifty times more than a 7-Eleven employee earns in Thailand.
July 10, 2010
Hotel Booking Checklist
We have compiled a checklist for you who are about to book a room in Thailand. You'll find this it in the right margin here
Amphetamine Dealer Arrested
A 33-year-old local drug dealer has been arrested in Nakhon Si Thammarat, in southeastern Thailand. During the sweep, the police found 4,500 tablets of amphetamines and also a few firearms. The arrested man is suspected of selling the drugs mainly to young people.
SOURCE: NATIONAL NEWS BUREAU OF THAILAND
Our Ratings of Places in Thailand
We have rated some of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand from our own experience. Different people have different opinions, so the reviews are primarily meant to serve as a small hint for first-time visitor. You'll find the reviews here
July 8, 2010
How to Cope with the Heat
For some people, 30-35 degrees Celsius is just too hot to really enjoy. I have just listed some tips about how to manage the heat in Thailand. You'll find these here
Briton Jeff Savage released
The British citizen Jeff Savage, 48, is now a free man. He was arrested in May for his comments in an amateur film (which quickly ended up on YouTube) in which he threatened to loot and burn down the giant Central World department store. He was sentenced to three months in prison, but after he pleaded guilty he was released after serving half the time.
SOURCE: THE NATION
Free on bail - Left Thailand
The Russian conductor who is accused of molesting a fourteen year old boy was released yesterday on a 300,000 Baht bail. He was also allowed to leave the country and flew out of Thailand to his home country almost right away. He is now required to report back to the court every twelfth day, while awaiting his trial.
Our thoughts: People who steal things of relatively little value can be sentenced to severe prison sentences, while a suspected sex offender (on suspicion of raping a minor) can leave the country after paying bail. It will be interesting to see if he will return to Thailand or are forced to do so.
Personally, I have no clue if he is guilty or not, but due to the serious nature of the offense, I think the handling of the matter is somehow controversial. Perhaps there is an element of international diplomacy involved.
July 7, 2010
Conductor Arrested for Sex Crimes
A middle-aged Russian pianist, conductor and composer, was arrested yesterday in Pattaya, accused of sexually abused a fourteen year old Thai boy. The man could face up to twenty years in prison if convicted of the crime.
Please note: Unlike many other websites we often choose not to publish names of persons not convicted in a court. Exceptions can be made if a suspect has confessed to the crime, or if the news can be considered as extremely newsworthy.
Koh Phangan - My Personal Gem
Koh Phangan is probably my personal favorite oasis and island in Thailand. It's not that I am considering moving from Koh Samui, (Samui is offering more opportunities in general), but as a scenic, relaxing holiday destination, Koh Phangan is the perfect place.
First, Phangan is located just 30 minutes by boat from where I live on, so if I decide to go there, I am at the hotel or bungalow within a few hours.
Secondly, I like the calm that characterizes Phangan. Or well, if you don't mind the monthly Full Moon Party, which of course is anything but "quiet". The last time I went to the party was in 2000 and to be honest, I liked trance, techno and drum and bass better then. I'm just older.
Third, the island has really stunning beaches. Had Yao, Had Khom, Thong Nai Pan Noi and Had Khuat are my personal favorites along with the small island of Koh Ma on the northwest coast. I've now been to all the island's beaches and actually walked around almost the entire island. I highly recommend it to anyone who is not afraid of steep hills, rolling terrain and blazing sun. You can also rent a bike or kayak. Don't forget to drink plenty of water and watch out for speeding cars and motorbikes.
You'll find further information about Phangan here
Two photos I took yesterday and the day before:
SALESWOMAN IN THONG SALA - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
VIEW FROM HAD KHOM, KOH PHANGAN - Photo by: Jens W, Yenit.com
July 6, 2010
Protest Against Chevron Drilling
Tomorrow, at 9:30am the last debate will be held about the U.S. oil giant Chevron's plans to drill only 42 kilometers outside the coast of Koh Samui. An anti-drilling demonstration will also be held outside the Tessaban in Nathon (the city hall in Koh Samui) at the same time.
Our thoughts: I will personally attend the rally tomorrow because I think it's crazy to drill in these waters. The risks are obvious, including recent disasters in mind. Chevron and its history is anything but spotless. The company has (with lawsuits) for example made it hard for Toyota to continue to produce efficient electric cars.
Safer Sunbathing in Thailand
I've just listed ten tips about sunbathing in Thailand. This is to avoid being sunburned or even suffer from skin diseases if you have fair skin. You'll find the advice in the left margin here
July 2, 2010
Five Soldiers Killed in Narathiwat
Five paramilitary soldiers were killed yesterday in Narathiwat province when insurgents detonated a roadside bomb as the soldiers arrived on the scene. Violence in southern Thailand has been going on for many years, and Muslim separatists is believed to be behind the attacks. They demand independence from Thailand.
It's worth mention that these attack has NOT occurred at popular tourist destinations. Those affected by the violence are mostly military personnel, police officers or government employees, but also Buddhist monks and teachers have been subjected to attacks.
Getting Tattooed on Your Vacation?
I've just spent an hour writing a about the importance of choosing the right tattoo artist in Thailand and about care instructions for a newly made tattoo. You can find the text in the right margin of this page
90-Year-Old Arrested For Sex Crimes
A ninety years of Australian citizens has been arrested for sexual abuse against four underage girls, now between 7-14 years old. The aged man is alleged to have lured children into his house in Doi Saket with candy and money. He's also suspected of having filmed the subsequent assault.
July 1, 2010
Cheap and expensive in Thailand?
Today I have written and published a list of what products and services that are cheap, moderate-expensive, and expensive in Thailand, compared to prices in many Western countries.
Of course, I had to generalize and the list is intended to provide a rough picture of the price situation in the country.
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 runs a small computer shop and she is working with web development.
Swap Blog Links with us?
Do you have a blog about Thailand, Asia or traveling? We are happy to exchange links with you if your blog is "fairly serious". Please e-mail so we can discuss and determine details: info@yenit.com
Other Blogs and Blog Top Lists
No links yet
Did you Enjoy Reading our Blog?
If you enjoy reading this news blog, we are very happy if you would like to bookmark it or share it with your friends and acquaintances on Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, etc.
It's simple, just click below and select the service or the site where you want to recommend us. Thanks!
Privacy Policy: We take your privacy seriously. Your e-mail etc. will never be sold or given away. Any payments made through this website are SSL encrypted, for your safety.
Thai.nu - Your total guide to Thailand. Book your hotel room in Thailand here. The layout and text is developed by Yenit Company Limited. 2004-2010.
Chaweng 
September 3, 2010
