MattOwensRees
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30 million lost to ex-boyfriend. Today’s true story from the Beyond the Bamboo Curtain series is of a Thai woman asking the police to investigate her ex-boyfriend’s luxury lifestyle, suspicious businesses, and multiple mistresses. 30 million lost to ex-boyfriend. A Thai woman claimed she lost more than 30 million baht to her ex-boyfriend during their three years of relationship. She’s demanding…
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Soldiers at Khun Yai’s House. It was only a few days ago that a fire destroyed eighty-three-year-old Khun Yai’s home. Today’s story in the Beyond the Bamboo Curtain series reveals the remarkable progress made in rebuilding her home –far more than I expected. Neighbours and other villagers have raised two hundred thousand baht so far…
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Why is crime so high in Thailand. Readers can get accurate statistics on crime rates for Thailand from a number of sources on the internet. You’ll probably need a VPN if searching within the “Land of Smiles”. The responsibility for reporting crime figures lies with the Royal Thai Police. Double check independent international sources as…
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Youths burgle house to buy cannabis. A Bangkok woman returned home to find her house ransacked, prompting police to arrest two men accused of stealing valuables worth over 1 million baht. Samran, a 69 year old Thung Khru resident, came home to discover nearly all her belongings had been stolen, including six air conditioners, household appliances, furniture and religious statues.…
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Lying is essential in Thai culture. It’s an acceptable part of the Thai way of life and allows no loss of face. It avoids conflict with others. A conversation with my father many years ago reminded me how true that statement is. Today’s true story in the Beyond the Bamboo Curtain series explains why Lying…
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Phuket crackdown. Foreigners Arrested. Phuket Immigration officers arrested four foreigners for illegally operating businesses in Patong, including a motorcycle rental shop, a travel agency, a barber shop, and restaurants. Immigration officials launched raids on five businesses along Phra Baramee Road and Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Road in Patong sub-district, Kathu district, following tip-offs from residents. There is no suggestion or…
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The Story of a Welsh Godfather. Most readers like to read short pieces with some photos. Although not directly linked to Thailand, there are some very strong parallels between this true story and how this tropical country functions. The reality is that mafias are everywhere we look. Not just in Thailand and Wales but throughout…
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“Are Thais shy?” is a question often asked by visitors and expats alike. Todays post, a true story in the Beyond the Bamboo Curtain series, gives a few examples and explanations. Readers comments are encouraged and welcomed. Post your comments in the reply box below and share your thoughts. I asked my neighbour Geng if…
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The title above probably gave you a little chuckle. In Thailand, there’s a clever little hack for couples who need a quick hideaway: the maan root, literally “curtain room” — ม่านรูด. In our series, Beyond the Bamboo Curtain, the word “curtain” suggests we’re peering into a Thailand that we don’t always see. A bamboo curtain…
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It’s not true that I had nothing on. I had the radio on. A famous and true quip from Marilyn Monroe, the American sex idol (1926-1962). According to this reliable source, classicsixny.com, “modern stars have continued to study and emulate Monroe’s style and energy. From the curves and elegance to the bold red lips and classic…