Thailand blog

For many of us, the day only really begins after that first, essential cup of coffee. Black as the night and strong enough to brighten up even the drizzliest Dutch morning. Lovingly prepared from freshly ground, hand-picked beans from the Colombian highlands—that's truly heavenly enjoyment. But the road to pure coffee enjoyment is full of obstacles. From sugar to syrups and from coffee pods to vending machine brews, the world seems full of threats to the true coffee purist. In this sharp explanation I take you through the pitfalls in coffee country and argue for a return to the essence of coffee: pure and unadulterated, exactly as it was intended.

Read more…

The Beach Korfball World Championship will take place in Pattaya for the second time in history from April 26-28. The first edition of this championship was won by Poland, but strong countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands will certainly want to prevent that from happening.

Read more…

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife Management and Plant Protection has announced a two-phase plan to relocate around 2.200 macaques from Lop Buri city centre. This plan is designed to improve public safety and will begin once the necessary shelter facilities are ready. The first phase focuses on the most problematic areas of the city.

Read more…

For everyone who cannot or does not want to attend the “official” celebration of King's Day 2024 at the Dutch association, I have found a nice initiative as an alternative in the Treetown entertainment center in the center of Pattaya.

Read more…

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has given the green light to the second phase of the ambitious Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project. This phase extends from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai and covers 357,12 kilometers. With planned completion in 2031, this project promises to significantly improve regional mobility and stimulate economic growth.

Read more…

The Ministry of Interior has announced a reduction in registration fees for real estate transactions in Thailand's southern border provinces. This measure, which reduces costs to just 0,01%, is aimed at encouraging investment and economic growth in the regions of Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala, and certain parts of Songkhla and Satun.

Read more…

Is it sufficient for the annual inspection at the Immigration Office to deposit at least 40.000 THB into my Bangkok bank account every month or do I have to have my entire pension deposited into my Bangkok bank account? I hope for the first…

Read more…

Financially I meet the requirements, but I would like someone to assist me in completing the forms and, if necessary, to process the application at immigration.

Read more…

Talking about the Isaan, the Northeast of Thailand, has been a topic of conversation on this blog for a long time. One likes to travel or even live there and another doesn't like that countryside. Frank C. wrote an article about it in 2017, nice for a discussion. Your opinion is appreciated!

Read more…

“Daddy's Hobby: The Story of Lek, a Bar Girl in Pattaya” is the first book in the “Behind The Smile – The Story Of Lek, A Bar Girl In Pattaya” series written by Owen Jones. The book tells the story of Lek, a young woman who works as a bargirl in Pattaya.

Read more…

Today no main course but a dessert. For those with a sweet tooth: Ruam Mit (รวมมิตร). Ruam mit is a popular Thai dessert made with various ingredients such as coconut milk, sugar, tapioca pearls, corn, lotus root, sweet potatoes, beans and jackfruit.

Read more…

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has revealed Thailand's ambitions to build the world's tallest tower in Bangkok. This plan, proposed at a meeting with international investors, includes a multifunctional complex that could radically change the cityscape. This development would not only be an architectural wonder, but also provide a significant economic and tourism boost.

Read more…

As previously announced, my book about Thailand will soon be published. The title of the book is “Thailand behind the smile”. During the twenty years that I have been coming to Thailand, I often heard: “I could write a book about what I heard and experienced here.” For most people, that intention remains the same. I drew from my own experiences, from the many stories I heard from Farang and Thai and this blog was also a huge source of information.

Read more…

Thailand is in advanced talks to organize a Formula 1 race on the streets of Bangkok. Plans for a street circuit through historic sites in the capital are gaining momentum, with support from F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and local authorities enthusiastic about the sporting and economic boost the event would bring.

Read more…

Discover the unique sounds of Thailand, from the soothing announcements of BTS to the lively buzz of Chinatown. Every note and sound weaves together into a symphony that is as essential to the Thai experience as the visual spectacle. This auditory journey offers a deeper insight into the daily life and culture of this fascinating country.

Read more…

Thai Railways (SRT) is launching a series of special train trips for tourists using the Kiha 183 train. With 14 planned trips along nine special routes, each tour offers a unique combination of cultural and natural attractions, from day trips to adventurous overnight stays. These special excursions, available in May and June, promise a deep dive into Thailand's rich landscape and heritage.

Read more…

Explore Bangkok efficiently and comfortably with the Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT). Whether you want to visit the bustling markets, explore historic sites or stroll through modern shopping malls, the MRT connects you effortlessly to all the major tourist attractions. Follow these simple steps to make your trip smooth.

Read more…