Thailand blog

Before a Schengen visa can be issued, it must first be checked whether all conditions have been met. Due to the large number of applications, but also to be able to perform this task as objectively and carefully as possible, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs uses a method based on data analysis, this is called Information Supported Decision (IOB). What this means for a visa application from Thailand I will discuss in this article.

Pattaya, once a sunny paradise, is slowly becoming a city where every breath is a risk. As air quality deteriorates and the government continues to watch, doubts grow: how long can you stay in a place that literally consumes your health?

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More than three quarters of Thai women work, often in factories, on rice fields or as street vendors. They carry the economy, often without recognition, with a pragmatism that inspires. No talk about job satisfaction, but action with determination. What can we learn from their way of working? A story about perseverance, dreams and the art of finding strength in simplicity.

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“Children are a nuisance”, rhymed Father Cats, the folk poet who lived in our region four centuries ago. “But he forgot that he himself had once been a child”, you sometimes hear him add, somewhat didactically. But of course he was right. Children prevent you, sometimes unintentionally, from doing a number of things that you would like to do. Parents who visit a department store, to have a good look around and have something to eat in a …

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From perfectly cut chops at Keurslager Sjef to surprising chicken vertebrae in Thai curries: the culinary contrast is an adventure in itself. Where precision reigns in the Netherlands, in Thailand the knife is allowed to do its work. This colorful chaos on your plate requires adjustment, but at the same time offers a fascinating insight into the local food culture. Watch out for unexpected bits of bone!

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The Prince Addresses the Silent Princess; Story Number 2. Midnight, the second opportunity for the prince to try to talk to the princess according to the custom of the court. This time he hid the soul of his best friend in the betel set that stood before him. In the East, it is customary when receiving friends to give them a betel set as a sign of welcome. Hosts and guests chew during the …

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Enjoy peace, space and the beauty of Thailand with this unique piece of land in District Sansai Meaunglen. Surrounded by rice fields and stylish buildings, this plot is only 20 minutes from the center of Chiang Mai. An ideal place for your dream home or project. Don't miss this opportunity!

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Reporter: Jan I recently got a one-year extension of my stay on my non-immigrant O visa retired in Chanthaburi. It was my first time. After arriving at my wife’s house, I had the TM30 registration done digitally on her behalf by TM30.io. I can recommend them, for small quantities they do it for free. Before the extension was finalized, I went to the immigration office four times. I had a lot of signatures …

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Questioner: Marco For the upcoming trip I applied for a Non-Immigrant-O visa and received the approval today, with a validity of 17 JAN – 16 APR 2025. However, my stay in TH is from 06 FEB – 07 MAY (89 days). I suspect that I did not enter the correct dates in the application. Now I see the following options: Call the embassy and ask if the dates can be changed (I don't think that's a bad idea...

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Questioner: Alphonse Some time ago I asked a question about METV, and I used 'visa on arrival' and 'visa exemption' interchangeably. Wiki and co state that there is no practical difference between the two. But you did make the distinction in your answer. Can you briefly explain to me what the difference is? Response RonnyLatYa There is certainly a big practical and financial difference. As far as Thailand is concerned. Visa on Arrival (VOA) Is …

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A new technology promises to save thousands of lives of snakebite victims. Using artificial intelligence, scientists have developed proteins that can neutralize dangerous snake venom. The breakthrough could replace the outdated treatment method and offer hope to remote areas where medical care is often inadequate. Thanks to AI, a global solution to this underestimated crisis is closer.

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Although the Thai does not really differ much from the average Belgian or Dutch person, you sometimes experience something in Thailand that you will not easily experience in Belgium or the Netherlands. That's what this series of stories is about. Today another new story, this time from Rob: 'It will just happen to you'.

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In recent months on this blog I have regularly reflected on the Sukhothai Historical Park, which is littered with important cultural-historical relics. Of course Wat Mahatat should not be missing in a series of contributions on this site.

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We are looking for a sitter for our house and pets in Hua Hin for 3 months from 15 April to 15 July 25. Living 12 km from the center. Preferably someone or a couple who love animals, we have 2 lovely cats and a dog, plus 2 fish ponds. The house and pool can be used freely, as well as all amenities. The entire land is 2500 m² and fenced. Transport options are available. If interested, contact us by e-mail: [email protected] ...

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Kaeng som or Gaeng som is a traditional Thai dish known for its distinctive sour taste. The name “kaeng som” literally means “sour curry” in Thai. This dish is very popular in Thailand and is also eaten in other parts of Southeast Asia.

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A friend who I sometimes help financially, now asks me for extra money. Her brother is said to have been arrested for drug trafficking, and the police demand 30.000 baht to keep a clean criminal record. Is this a realistic situation or a made-up story? I would like a serious opinion on this, because it is not about use but explicitly about trade, as she wrote.

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Prachuap Khiri Khan is a Thai province south of Bangkok, located on the Gulf of Thailand. If you type the province name in the search box of this blog, several interesting articles for (tourist) visitors will appear on the screen. Sure, Prachuap Khiri Khan has beaches, but not all of them are as well known as those near Hua Hin.

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Dear readers, Does anyone here have experience, tips or recommendations for the Thailand – Laos border crossing at Chong Mek? I am also curious about transportation options such as taxis or songthaews from Pakse to Champassak. Can I cross the border at the border crossing without dollars, but with Thai baht, and stay in Pakse and Champassak for 2 to 4 days, for example? Or is it advisable to take dollars with you? Thanks in advance! Greetings, Jos Editorial staff: Have …

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It is perhaps Bangkok's best kept secret. The Museum of Contemporary Art has an art collection that appeals to the imagination. You can admire more than 20.000 works of art in a special building of no less than 800 m². 

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Dear Readers, My friend has a will for his bank accounts in the Netherlands and a will in Thailand for his assets in Thailand. His Dutch will states that the funds in his Dutch bank go to his family in the Netherlands. He also has an account in Germany, and he is wondering if this account is also covered by his Dutch will. His Thai will states that all assets in Thailand go to his …

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The moving story about Senna from Udon Thani, chained to his wheelchair, has touched a sensitive chord with many readers, as evidenced by the many readings, likes and even (two) heartwarming reactions. In this update, the author is happy to share what happened next with 'our' unfortunate beggar.

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In Thailand, losing face is more than a moment of shame. It is a breach of social harmony, an unwritten rule that you better understand. Being too direct or confrontational not only loses face, but also respect. Find out why smiling sometimes says more than words and how to avoid awkward situations.

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