'The White Lotus is set in Thailand'
Living in Thailand myself, I am eagerly awaiting the third season of The White Lotus, which is set in Thailand. There is something fascinating about watching tourists get lost in their own luxury, especially when you do it from a tropical terrace with a coconut in your hand. Because what does that really say about us?
Taxes: Help with applying for a reduction
Lammert de Haan helped people with Dutch income with the reduction from article 23 paragraph 6 of the treaty. This has to do with the fact that AOW and other benefits from security (such as WIA) are taxed in both countries. He has made an English text and calculations to convince the tax authorities in Thailand because Thailand must grant that 'reduction', not the Netherlands.
Health Minister Announces Measures Against Alcohol Consumption During New Year 2025
In order to reduce traffic accidents during the festive season, Thailand is implementing stricter measures against alcohol consumption. From stricter enforcement to awareness campaigns and changes to the law, this approach aims to make the New Year celebrations safer. With thousands of alcohol-related incidents in the past, the government is committed to protecting public health and road safety.
Love in Thailand or an expensive illusion? (reader submission)
Romances in Thailand can seem wonderful, but they often end in broken hearts and empty wallets. Know the signs of a “love” who is more interested in your bank account than your heart. Whether you’re straight, gay, or LGTBQ+, these warning signs will help you protect yourself from disappointment and perhaps invest in a safer future.
Strange professions
Thailand, the land of smiles, is home to some unique professions that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. From temporarily living in ‘haunted houses’ to chase away ghosts, to testing food products with sometimes unexpected results, and even diving for golf balls as a recycler. Discover the fascinating and sometimes bizarre ways people in Thailand make a living!
Gold rush: Rising baht prices attract investors
In a remarkable turn of events, gold prices are surging, jumping 200 baht in just one day. The sudden surge reflects global economic tensions and has caught the attention of investors and consumers. The Thai gold market is playing a key role in this, with jewelry and bar prices reaching record highs and investors adjusting their strategies.
You experience all kinds of things in Thailand: a bull's eye (new)
In a quiet neighborhood full of sea swallows and birds of prey, a misplaced shot lands in the antenna of Lung Addie, an experienced radio amateur. What started as protection for swallows ends in a surprising feat of precision—resulting in a broken antenna mast. Fortunately, the atmosphere remains good, and there is work to be done at twenty meters in the air.
Government considers expanding financial support: seniors will also receive 10.000 baht
The government wants to extend the 10.000 baht financial assistance program to seniors aged 60 and over. This is part of a broader strategy to address financial hardship among vulnerable groups. With easy access and a focus on digital payments, the government hopes to not only provide immediate relief but also to stimulate the transition to a more digitalized economy.
Emirates named best airline in the world
Emirates has been named the World's Best Airline at the ULTRAs 2024 Awards. With awards for its industry-leading service, innovative products and outstanding value for money, Emirates continues to impress travellers around the world. Over the past year, the airline has renewed its fleet, launched new routes and opened luxury lounges to further enhance the passenger experience.
Thailand welcomed nearly 2024 million international tourists in the first ten months of 28,4, generating an estimated 1,325 trillion baht in revenue. Thanks to visa waivers, relaxed regulations and a peak season, Thailand remains a top destination for travellers from around the world, particularly China, Malaysia and India.
The government has approved new loan programs to provide financial breathing space for small businesses and newcomers to the housing market. Street vendors and other small businesses can borrow up to 50.000 baht on favorable terms, while low-interest loans for home ownership and renovations will also be accessible.
Due to potential global threats to Israelis, Thailand has increased security on Koh Pha Ngan, especially around the busy Full Moon Party. Extra checks and personnel have been deployed to ensure the safety of all tourists. Authorities stress that the measures are intended to maintain peace and a welcoming atmosphere.
Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is being hit by severe flooding, with animal rescuers scrambling to rescue elephants and other animals. The park is cut off by floodwaters and landslides, and communications are down. Staff are working around the clock to save as many animals as possible, despite the life-threatening conditions.
The aftermath of Tropical Storm Yagi will continue to bring heavy rains and localized windstorms to northern and upper northeast Thailand. The strong monsoon over the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand is also bringing heavy rains to the east and south of the country. The Meteorological Department is warning small boats not to sail for the time being.
Bangkok to launch free vaccination and sterilization campaign for pets on World Rabies Day 2024
Bangkok invites pet owners to register for free vaccinations and sterilization procedures in celebration of World Rabies Day 2024. Registration will run from September 2 to 16, 2024, or until available spaces are filled. The services, including rabies vaccinations and sterilizations, will be conducted on September 28 at Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park.
On August 4, Thailand's anti-narcotics team raided an apartment of a 63-year-old Dutchman in Pattaya. Police found a small-scale facility there for the production of drugs, including crystal meth and precursor chemicals. The man, who previously served in the Dutch army, admitted that he used the substances and intended to make date-rape drugs.
Higher rates for KLM lounges at Schiphol
From August 1, KLM will increase the prices for access to its lounges at Schiphol. Although Business Class travelers and frequent flyers will continue to have free access, other travelers will now have to pay more. The non-Schengen lounge costs 75 euros, and the Schengen lounge 60 euros. The KLM Crown Lounges offer a comfortable place to relax, eat, drink and work, with additional amenities such as beds and showers.
Yingluck aims for a quick return to Thailand now that legal obstacles have been removed
Yingluck Shinawatra hints at a possible return to Thailand within the next 12 months. Now that several legal obstacles have been removed, the way seems clear for the former prime minister to return to her home country. Yingluck currently lives in London, but recent court filings indicate her return is getting closer.
Thai Cabinet approves new MRT Blue Line fare structure: fares range from 17 to 45 baht
The Cabinet has approved a revised fare structure for Bangkok's MRT Blue Line, which will come into effect on July 3. The new fares, proposed by the MRTA, range from 17 to 45 baht per trip, in response to inflation and economic conditions. Journeys up to 9 stations cost 17 baht, while longer journeys can cost up to 45 baht.
Here is an UPDATE of a contribution I submitted earlier. The list of providers is extensive. I have also supplemented the list with costs and restrictive conditions. I still have 4 years before I reach my state pension age. Then I hope to be able to receive an annuity payment.