Why is the NETHERLANDS so RICH? – How a small country became the world's second largest food exporter (video)
The Netherlands, a compact country in Northern Europe, with more than 17 million inhabitants and a significant part of the land below sea level, is a marvel of technical and economic achievement. With a GDP per capita that leads the world, it is raising questions about the keys to its wealth, the impact of natural gas discoveries and its status as a leading food exporter.
Do you feel more or less at home in Thailand? – Own research into the integration of expats in Thailand
Often considered “Asia for beginners,” Thailand is known for its accessibility and hospitality towards foreigners, contributing to a huge influx of tourists and expats. In 2012, there were approximately 3,5 million foreigners living permanently in Thailand, mainly from neighboring countries, but also from other Asian countries and a minority from Western countries. The integration of these expats is complex, with cultural adjustments required in both psychological and socio-cultural aspects. Hofstede's cultural dimensions provide insight into these adaptation processes. Research shows that integration is more dependent on psychological factors than demographic characteristics, especially for expats from highly individualistic societies adapting to collectivist Thailand.
A Thai in the German Wehrmacht
For years I have been looking for a book that can shed light on one of the most intriguing pages of Thailand's World War II history. The cover features a photo of a German Wehrmacht officer with unmistakable Asian facial features. This book contains the memoirs of Wicha Thitwat (1917-1977), a Thai who had served in the ranks of the German Wehrmacht during this conflict.
Pattaya's business owners have welcomed the recent change in nightlife closing times, with nightspots allowed to stay open until 04.00am. This adjustment, which also applies to special events such as New Year's Eve, is being implemented in several Thai districts. The move, aimed at boosting economic and tourism activities, is seen by many as a welcome boost for the vibrant city.
Hendrick Indijck: The first Dutchman in Angkor Wat
One of the men who risked their lives for the VOC was Hendrik Indijck. It is not clear when exactly he was born, but it is true: according to most historians, this happened around 1615 in Alkmaar. Indijck was a literate and adventurous man.
Is it allowed to take a drone to Thailand?
Are you going to Thailand with a drone? Then be well prepared! In this article we explain how to correctly register your drone for a carefree holiday. From arranging liability insurance to going through the official registration processes with CAAT and NBTC.
Chuwit Kamolvisit, pimp, politician and populist
Chuwit Kamolvisit, once a prominent figure in Thailand's sex industry, is now a whistleblower fighting corruption. Once known as a 'super pimp', he owned six massage parlors in Bangkok, bribing authorities to ignore his illegal activities. After his 2003 arrest and loss of police protection, he unveiled a list of bribed officers, which brought him national fame. Now faced with liver cancer, he reflects on his life full of mistakes.
Three true stories of prisoners behind Thai bars
Read the raw reality of life in Thailand's most feared prisons through the eyes of three foreigners who ended up there. Sandra Gregory's “Bangkok Hilton”, Pedro Ruijzing's “Life Sentence in Thailand” and Machiel Kuijt's “Ten Years Behind Thai Bars” provide a disturbing picture of daily life in the infamous Klong Prem Central Prison and Bang Kwang Central Prison, also known as the “ Bangkok Hilton” or “Big Tiger”. Their stories, shaped in the shadows of these dreaded walls, reveal a world far beyond most people's understanding. What do they have to say about their experiences behind bars?
'Buddhism the Thai way'
Those who stay in Thailand will quickly notice that Buddhism plays an important role in Thai life. Everywhere you see the exuberant expressions of this harmonious and tolerant way of life.
Mae Kampong a rustic and peaceful haven
"A lovely hamlet, a model of self-sufficiency and simple pleasures," writes Bangkok Post reporter Peerawat Jariyasombat of Mae Kampong. And right she is.
The dangers of the betel nut
Traveling through the far north of Thailand, I took the photo depicted in this story of one of the ladies belonging to the Akha hill tribe. Her fiery red lips and red mouth inspired me to write a story.
The difference between a condo and an apartment in Thailand
If you come to Thailand for a longer period of time, you may rent accommodation in what we call an apartment house instead of a hotel or guesthouse. An apartment house is called an apartment or a condo in Thailand and this story is about the difference in the two names.
'One night in Bangkok and the world's your oyster'
One Night in Bangkok is a 1984 classic by Murray Head an English actor and singer. The sound of this song is very recognizable and makes it unique. Whoever hears the first tones will immediately have an Aha experience where the mind will wander to the City of Angels, Krung Thep.
Lotus's Supermarkets are revolutionizing Thai retail
Discover the dynamic world of Lotus's Supermarkets in Thailand, where traditional retail undergoes a modern metamorphosis. From cutting-edge hypermarkets to groundbreaking digital platforms, Lotus's is setting a new standard in customer experience and market innovation. In this article, we dive into the recent developments and strategies that have made Lotus's a leading force in the Thai retail sector.
Gold in Thailand: pure and sought after
Gold plays an important role in the life of the Thai people. Gold is given as a gift at various stages of life. At birth, gold objects are donated to the baby and gold is also an important part of the dowry (Sinsod).
Not enough Thai children
Thailand faces a demographic challenge: a looming shortage of young people and an increasing aging population. The Thai government is looking for solutions to avoid a future with predominantly elderly people. Their plan: a birth incentive campaign and the establishment of fertility centers. But is this enough to tackle the drastic social changes?
Have you ever thought about why the flight from Amsterdam to Bangkok takes about 11 hours and the return flight almost an hour longer?