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sakonnakhonguide Website
itep snguide on Google Plus (Thai) Posts as they happen
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Saturday, May 31, 2014
M.J.Hotel Fitness Center
Friday, May 30, 2014
And now an important public announcement
The public address system which had been silent for over a week was cranked up late this afternoon. Of course I was eager to hear what was so important. Even more surprising was the explanation given me. An announcement was made that there is an oversupply of shallots.
They are being sold for 7 Baht per kilo (US$0.10 per pound).
Nakhon Phanom FC at Sakon Nakhon FC
Saturday 4 pm
Nakhon Phanom is ninth, while Sakon Nakhon is 13.
Let's hope for an improved second season which starts June 29
Let's hope for an improved second season which starts June 29
฿ sliding slightly
Baht stable this week, down slightly on external factors, BOT says - The Nation
Thailand Baht to US Dollar Currency Exchange Rate Forecast- THB USD
Looking back on the 2006 coup as a reference point: The ฿ gained in value after that coup. Over the past three years the ฿ had been fairly even remaining in the 31 to the lower 32 range. At the moment the ฿ remains in the upper 32. range.
Thailand Baht to US Dollar Currency Exchange Rate Forecast- THB USD
Looking back on the 2006 coup as a reference point: The ฿ gained in value after that coup. Over the past three years the ฿ had been fairly even remaining in the 31 to the lower 32 range. At the moment the ฿ remains in the upper 32. range.
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Of interest to
American Expats and their Spouses
We all will die. Most of us don't like to discuss the subject. Most of us look at it as "it's not going to be a problem to me."
Your then widow will have to attend to medical bills, funeral bills, even utility bills and car payments you leave behind.
A recent death of an American left a Thai woman asking what do I do.
I put that question in an e-mail to the American Embassy, American Citizen Services Unit.
Their reply may be of interest in planning ahead:
Your then widow will have to attend to medical bills, funeral bills, even utility bills and car payments you leave behind.
A recent death of an American left a Thai woman asking what do I do.
I put that question in an e-mail to the American Embassy, American Citizen Services Unit.
Their reply may be of interest in planning ahead:
Dear Sir,
Please tell the widow to directly contact our office for guidance. We have personnel who speak Thai and can directly provide information to her.
Our number is 02-205-4049. If you provide her name and contact details, we will be happy to call her as well. Best regards, American Citizen Services UnitU.S. Embassy Bangkok
Apples getting noticed in Sakon Nakhon
จังหวัดสกลนคร Sakon Nakhon Province is a Thai picture website of local eateries, shops and events.The site recently featured Apple's Pizza
Part of the (highlighted) text interested me: ใกล้สี่แยกหมูกะทะ. Unfortunately Google Translate turned into Google Giggle
- Near the intersection of Pork
- Intersection Frying Pan
May have something to do with the number of eateries in the area
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Wednesday, May 28, 2014
New Curfew hours...
midnight to 4 am
Thailand Nightlife Curfew Eases to Midnight-4am-... - Phuket Wan May 27
Phuket curfew reduced to four hours Phuket Gazette May 27
Phuket curfew reduced to four hours Phuket Gazette May 27
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Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Planning a vacation in Thailand
Wait for the Travel Bargains
I have read various media stories of promises that 'democracy' will be restored 'as fast as possible.'
Taking into consideration the 2006 coup makes me wonder what 'fast as possible' means this time.
The 2006 coup was declared on 19 September 2006
Four months later, martial law was lifted in 41 of Thailand's 76 provinces on 26 January 2007.
Elections were held on 23 December 2007, after a military-appointed tribunal outlawed the Thai Rak Thai party of Thaksin Shinawatra and banned TRT executives from contesting in elections for 5 years.
source: en.wikipedia.org
Shortly after the 2006 coup things seemed quite normal. It was the start of the high season. Tourism was reportedly down, but that was hardly noticeable.
Annual Royal Boat Races, the Wax Castle Parade, the University Agricultural Fair, the Dragon Festival, and Expat celebrations, they all seemed oblivious to the ongoing coup
Taking into consideration the 2006 coup makes me wonder what 'fast as possible' means this time.
The 2006 coup was declared on 19 September 2006
Four months later, martial law was lifted in 41 of Thailand's 76 provinces on 26 January 2007.
Elections were held on 23 December 2007, after a military-appointed tribunal outlawed the Thai Rak Thai party of Thaksin Shinawatra and banned TRT executives from contesting in elections for 5 years.
source: en.wikipedia.org
Shortly after the 2006 coup things seemed quite normal. It was the start of the high season. Tourism was reportedly down, but that was hardly noticeable.
Annual Royal Boat Races, the Wax Castle Parade, the University Agricultural Fair, the Dragon Festival, and Expat celebrations, they all seemed oblivious to the ongoing coup
Different this time is the draconian curfew.
Definitely not a tourism draw.
Definitely not a tourism draw.
Some tourism top brass is calling for the lifting of the curfew in tourist towns.
That would give some Thais privileges over others. Probably create dissent.
Here in Sakon City haven't seen any military presence on roads I have traveled on. Did see a few pictures of just a handful of soldiers standing with police doing the usual road checks. One report of a truckload of soldiers at a highway intersection.
As long as the area remains subservient to the coup rules, I'd suspect the uniforms will remain in their barracks.
One can only hope that coup leaders, who seem to be well intentioned can reach a fair middle ground swiftly.
As for tourist plans later this year, I'd wait for the moment. If things return to normalcy there are going to be some great bargains to be had.
As long as the area remains subservient to the coup rules, I'd suspect the uniforms will remain in their barracks.
One can only hope that coup leaders, who seem to be well intentioned can reach a fair middle ground swiftly.
As for tourist plans later this year, I'd wait for the moment. If things return to normalcy there are going to be some great bargains to be had.
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Monday, May 26, 2014
What next ??
KHAOSOD English 25 May 21:04
HM King To Formally Appoint Prayuth As Junta Head
"... After Gen. Prayuth is formally appointed head of the NCPO, a temporary charter will be drafted and a new Prime Minister will be appointed, said Lt.Gen. Panuwat ..."| Expat Dine & Drink | Apple | Pit Stop | Roadhouse |
Sunday, May 25, 2014
American Pete laid to rest
Pete had been suffering from liver cancer and related illnesses. The last I had heard of him was that he was attempting to receive medical care in Bangkok a month ago.
Pete died in hospital and his wife returned him to Sakon Nakhon for funeral services.
Pete appeared to be smiling during the drive back to Sakon Nakhon, according to his devastated wife.
Exhausted from the travel, Pete's wife had little time to notify many of his western friends of the funeral.
The funeral was a bit of a Sakon Nakhon Who's Who.
Another defeat for Sakon Nakhon FC updated
Sakon Nakhon FC 0 at Loei 3
Sakon Nakhon hosts Nakhon Phanom, this Saturday in the final game of first half of the season.update Mentions a team insider: "The team is in it's infancy, many new players. It will take a bit of time to see them flourish.
The second half starts June 29. The team needs some serious retooling if there is any hope of better days ahead
Protest interruptus
The Google translation of this headline:
Anti-coup group chased by soldiers from the Victory Monument !
Anti-coup group chased by soldiers from the Victory Monument !
- If there were soldiers chasing, it's not evident in this video.
We now resume our broadcast
Television censorship was lifted around mid-morning Saturday with all Satellite services operating.
As expected, television service disruption was a temporary inconvenience lasting two days (3 nights)
As expected, television service disruption was a temporary inconvenience lasting two days (3 nights)
Saturday, May 24, 2014
Channels 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11 to resume normal programming Bangkok Post
"...instructed the NBTC to follow its orders to shut down internet-based television and political web pages..."
School's ordered closed Pool open
Kids started to arrive promptly at noon. I was surprised by the fact that it was Friday. These early pool visits only happen on weekends, not during the week. I didn't ask, it was obvious schools were closed.
I quickly jumped in and vacuum'd the pool. Pool temperature was lukewarm, not very refreshing. I ordered eight bags of ice to be added to the pool ฿360. I would have preferred ice blocks, none available. They would have been more effective.
I'm expecting a pool party of sort today, Saturday. I hope the 'not more than 5 person gathering rule does not apply.
The only coup irritant I experience personally is the blocking of entertainment TV. Fortunately internet services continue to function.
Extensive monitoring of internet postings is to be expected.
Apparently some TV stations are back in operation since last night.
Local cable company is totally shut down... nothing but screen snow.
Quite a few stations seem to be broadcasting Television on the Net
Only problem of watching TV on the computer, the office chair is not suited for lounging. I have a sore ribcage from falling over.
The public gathering rule of no more than five persons appears to not apply to shopping, restaurants and bars.
The Thai Coup Isn’t Likely to Ruin Your Vacation (Just the Economy)TIME.com
I quickly jumped in and vacuum'd the pool. Pool temperature was lukewarm, not very refreshing. I ordered eight bags of ice to be added to the pool ฿360. I would have preferred ice blocks, none available. They would have been more effective.
I'm expecting a pool party of sort today, Saturday. I hope the 'not more than 5 person gathering rule does not apply.
The only coup irritant I experience personally is the blocking of entertainment TV. Fortunately internet services continue to function.
Extensive monitoring of internet postings is to be expected.
Apparently some TV stations are back in operation since last night.
Local cable company is totally shut down... nothing but screen snow.
Quite a few stations seem to be broadcasting Television on the Net
Only problem of watching TV on the computer, the office chair is not suited for lounging. I have a sore ribcage from falling over.
The public gathering rule of no more than five persons appears to not apply to shopping, restaurants and bars.
The Thai Coup Isn’t Likely to Ruin Your Vacation (Just the Economy)TIME.com
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Friday, May 23, 2014
Curfew Rush Hour
Shutting down all television broadcasts, foreign and domestic was a very obvious 'Attention Getter.' TV stations which remained on the air, were under military control, broadcasting 'Rules of Behavior.'
As soon as I heard the news of a curfew, I took inventory of the refrigerator. Still had enough beers on hand, so a store run was not needed. Eating out seemed inappropriate for the evening. There'd be that inevitable rush hour when all traffic would be heading for home.
The coup seemed fantastically well organized. They must have had plenty of practice by now.
Demonstrators were told to go home, and they did.
I used to consider military coups: crimes against nations. I have a right to change my mind.
Things were getting a bit out of control in Thailand. The country's privately owned arsenal was being moved to 'the battle zone' in larger and more frequent shipments.
Expected by many, the internet suffered no shutdown. A slight slowdown in service can be blamed on the fact that more people where online than during usual peak hours. Did not disrupt my television streaming.
I suspect that tourism will be somewhat inconvenienced by the curfew But seasoned travelers can adjust their plans accordingly. Most likely this curfew imposition will be temporary.
Coinciding the coup with the start of the rainy season will lessen the impact on Thai tourism.
One can only hope that the outcome will be better than before. Some commentators are guessing that the coup will be over in a matter of days, while others remind us that this could drag out for up to a year.
As soon as I heard the news of a curfew, I took inventory of the refrigerator. Still had enough beers on hand, so a store run was not needed. Eating out seemed inappropriate for the evening. There'd be that inevitable rush hour when all traffic would be heading for home.
The coup seemed fantastically well organized. They must have had plenty of practice by now.
Demonstrators were told to go home, and they did.
I used to consider military coups: crimes against nations. I have a right to change my mind.
Things were getting a bit out of control in Thailand. The country's privately owned arsenal was being moved to 'the battle zone' in larger and more frequent shipments.
Watch the video:
Expected by many, the internet suffered no shutdown. A slight slowdown in service can be blamed on the fact that more people where online than during usual peak hours. Did not disrupt my television streaming.
I suspect that tourism will be somewhat inconvenienced by the curfew But seasoned travelers can adjust their plans accordingly. Most likely this curfew imposition will be temporary.
Coinciding the coup with the start of the rainy season will lessen the impact on Thai tourism.
One can only hope that the outcome will be better than before. Some commentators are guessing that the coup will be over in a matter of days, while others remind us that this could drag out for up to a year.
Saw that one coming
US reviews Thailand aid, military ties after coup WMBFNews.com
- up to $10 million in bilateral assistance
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Thursday, May 22, 2014
Thailand Coup d'etat announced Bangkok Post:
Really hope they can enforce their order " No weapons movements are allowed"
10pm - 5am Nationwide curfew - Bangkok Post
The announcement was made Thursday 6:13 pm
That should send a lot of tourists packing
That should send a lot of tourists packing
Legendary same-same OLD
The theater was in operation until the Nevada Complex opened some 10 years ago. The theater has since been vacant.
Post by สกลนคร ซิตี้.
Hotter than normal Hot
My electric bill, which dips down to ฿1,000 (US$30) during the cold season, came in at second highest this month, ฿4,160.
The increase is ฿ 1,000 higher than previous hot season averages.
More use of the air conditioner is the reason.
meoweather 'This day in history' indicates this is the hottest in four years
Continued scattered thunderstorms, patchy rain. Drop in temperature to lower 30's likely next week.
The increase is ฿ 1,000 higher than previous hot season averages.
More use of the air conditioner is the reason.
meoweather 'This day in history' indicates this is the hottest in four years
2014: 38° 2013:33° 2012:34° 2011:35°
Continued scattered thunderstorms, patchy rain. Drop in temperature to lower 30's likely next week.
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Wednesday, May 21, 2014
When I was Young
Post by ACCA Relοαded.
When I was a boy, my momma would send me down to the corner store with $1 and I'd come back with
- 5 potatoes,
- 2 loaves of bread,
- 3 bottles of milk,
- a hunk of cheese,
- a box of tea
- and 6 eggs.
Too many fucking security cameras
Excellent BBC Photography of Bangkok
BBC News In pictures: Thailand comes under martial law
Keep in mind this is in Bangkok not all of Thailand
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Tuesday, May 20, 2014
US Embassy Bangkok, Security Message
This message is to inform U.S. citizens that
According to a Royal Thai Army announcement, the military has assumed responsibility for maintaining peace and order. Martial law gives the military certain expanded authorities to ensure public security and safety. According to media reports, Thailand’s constitution and caretaker government remain in place. U.S. citizens are advised to stay alert, exercise caution, and monitor media coverage. You are advised to avoid areas where there are protest events, large gatherings, or security operations and follow the instructions of Thai authorities.
Read the full text here
the Royal Thai Army has invoked martial law throughout Thailand, effective 3:00 AM Tuesday May 20, 2014.
According to a Royal Thai Army announcement, the military has assumed responsibility for maintaining peace and order. Martial law gives the military certain expanded authorities to ensure public security and safety. According to media reports, Thailand’s constitution and caretaker government remain in place. U.S. citizens are advised to stay alert, exercise caution, and monitor media coverage. You are advised to avoid areas where there are protest events, large gatherings, or security operations and follow the instructions of Thai authorities.
Read the full text here
Martial Law in Thailand
This is not a Coup
BBC News - Thailand army declares martial law
There is little in print regarding the rules of this declaration as of yet.
Prohibiting public assembly should be high on the agenda. Prohibiting strikes may also be in the cards. I expect some sort of censorship particularly pertaining to political propaganda.
Personally I think it was a very smart first step. It's the next step that's important
There is little in print regarding the rules of this declaration as of yet.
Prohibiting public assembly should be high on the agenda. Prohibiting strikes may also be in the cards. I expect some sort of censorship particularly pertaining to political propaganda.
Personally I think it was a very smart first step. It's the next step that's important
Monday, May 19, 2014
Northern Floods worsend
by blocked floodgates
Northern and northeastern Thailand devastatated
Floodgates and canals full of trash and vegetation are ineffective in diverting storm water.
Floodgates and canals full of trash and vegetation are ineffective in diverting storm water.
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Sakon Nakhon FC 1 Kalasin FC 1
Prior to the game the area was hit with one of the heaviest storms this year.
By game time the temperature was pleasantly cool, with a slight breeze.
The play field was wet and soggy. The local team seems to do better under such conditions. If nothing else, there should be a bit of a comic show of slipping and sliding.
Sakon Nakhon had a different goalkeeper in the line-up. He stopped more a dozen Kalasin goal attempts. Sakon Nakhon's defence seemed to do quite well during the first half and things looked quite promising.
Sakon Nakhon scored after 20 minutes of play
During the second half things noticeably started heading south. A few disputable calls by the referees for both teams. seemed to change the mood of the game.
Kalasin was able to even the score during the last 15 minutes of play.
In another game Mukdahan FC lost against Nong Kai 2-0, assuring Mukdahan the bottom in the league
By game time the temperature was pleasantly cool, with a slight breeze.
The play field was wet and soggy. The local team seems to do better under such conditions. If nothing else, there should be a bit of a comic show of slipping and sliding.
Sakon Nakhon had a different goalkeeper in the line-up. He stopped more a dozen Kalasin goal attempts. Sakon Nakhon's defence seemed to do quite well during the first half and things looked quite promising.
Sakon Nakhon scored after 20 minutes of play
During the second half things noticeably started heading south. A few disputable calls by the referees for both teams. seemed to change the mood of the game.
Kalasin was able to even the score during the last 15 minutes of play.In another game Mukdahan FC lost against Nong Kai 2-0, assuring Mukdahan the bottom in the league
Rainy Season Prelude:
. . .Lightening strikes home
According to yesterday's news, the start of the rainy season is expected near the end of the month (May).
Shortly after noon it began with light rain and turned out to be the strongest storm so far this year.
Electricity shut off but the surge did blow the HDMI connection on my HTC satellite box installed just hours before the storm.
If lightening is that near, its a good idea to stand on a carpet, or wear footwear.
Over half of the provinces in Thailand are still in drought condition
Shortly after noon it began with light rain and turned out to be the strongest storm so far this year.
Lightening got close and personal! Came in through the satellite dish.
Lucky I had upgraded the main circuit breakers to include surge protection.Electricity shut off but the surge did blow the HDMI connection on my HTC satellite box installed just hours before the storm.
If lightening is that near, its a good idea to stand on a carpet, or wear footwear.
Over half of the provinces in Thailand are still in drought condition
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Yawn: Thai Football
AFC Women’s Asian Cup (Ho Chi Minh)
Thailand 0
South Korea 7Thailand target improvement - Bangkok Post
Rainy Season to arrive end of May
National News Bureau of Thailand
Meteorological Department- Thailand will enter the rainy season by the end of May
Weather patterns are beginning change
Temperatures should begin to drop somewhat after midweek,
from the upper 30's to the lower 30'. Same for the feels like temperatures from the upper 40's to the lower 40s.
Meteorological Department- Thailand will enter the rainy season by the end of May
The recent plentiful rains we've experienced have been coming from the north (China), not normally associated with the rainy season.
Weather patterns are beginning change
Temperatures should begin to drop somewhat after midweek,
from the upper 30's to the lower 30'. Same for the feels like temperatures from the upper 40's to the lower 40s.
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Currently we are seeing a phenomenon quite common to this area.
I call it the doughnut-hole effect. Possibly a result of the Phu Phan mountains
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The rainy season generally peaks mid July with storms coming from the east. Buddhist Lent also known as rains retreat begins July 12. It's time for study and meditation.
Contrary to rumours, monks are not restricted to temple grounds during this period, and can be seen in the general public.
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Friday, May 16, 2014
New Item at Apples beginning Friday
Nicely seasoned Steamed Chicken. Served with rice and spicy sauce 79 baht
Also regular cut Steak dinners this Friday at 199 baht
Whose 'calculator' do you trust?
Tourism is down, how much?
Recent headlines proclaim 30 to 50%
Recent headlines proclaim 30 to 50%
- Thailand's protests hit tourism, Chinese arrivals down 50% - Thailand Business News
- (30% cancellations) Indian travellers cut short Thailand story as violence rises again - Business Standard
And now the Official version:
- According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports’ data International tourist arrivals to Thailand posted a decline of 4.91%, January to April.
No gain at the end of the day
- Protests at fast food restaurants in 150 cities across the world
Opinion: When Thailand's labourers received a 50% minimum wage increase (or more, depending on location), costs of all goods and services shot up 'overnight.'
Many minimum wage earners actually wound up being able to afford less than before.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Sakon City Visakha Bucha Celebrations
An estimate by N.N.T. that over ten thousand people joined the religious ceremony seems overestimated. But it sounds good
Thai protesters aren't satisfied yet
- ""The remnants of her (Yingluck Shinawatra) government are clinging to power, leaving the two sides as deadlocked as ever.
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
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