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8 Sports and Games Thai People Love Playing in Thailand

8 Sports and Games Thai People Love Playing in Thailand

Thai people are known to take pride in their sports. But, globalization has paved the way for other games to become accepted in the country. Thailand first competed in the Summer Olympic Games in 1952 and in the Winter Games in 2002. Thailand has had its best success in boxing events, and in 1996 Thailand won its first Olympic gold medal for boxing. However the traditional martial art of Thai boxing (Muay Thai) is Thailand’s national sport.

Muay Thai

Also known as Thai Boxing, this sport has been passed on generations after generations, making it Thailand’s national sport. It is a mixed martial arts (MMA) and is also popular as the “Art of 8 limbs.” Unlike the usual boxing and karate, Muay Thai uses a combination of punches, elbows, knees, and kicks. This unique style of the sport makes it famous not just in Thailand but globally.

Meanwhile, some local articles said Thai people either play or watch Muay Thai. There is no in-between. This fact just proved the popularity of the sport in the country.

Thailand is also home to the greatest Muay Thai fighters in the world like Saenchai and Namsaknoi Yudthagarngamtorn.

Football

Football is one of the most famous sports in Thailand. Historically speaking, Thai people knew the sport way back in 1897. However, even with a long history of said sport, Thailand is just new to the professional league. But, this does not eliminate the fact that Thais are big fans of football.

Thailand has a national football team that represents the country in different major leagues in the world. The team has five AFF championships and nine senior-level gold medals in the Southeast Asian Games. So far, their best world ranking was in 1972 where they were hailed by FIFA as the third-best team globally.

Currently, Thailand is still looking for a World Cup finish.

Boxing

Another famous sport among Thais is boxing. With their love for Muay Thai, it is evident that they also find the usual boxing amusing. This activity is similar to Thailand’s national sport, but with less action since it’s mostly about punches.

Though Thailand has more famous Muay Thai fighters, they still have known skilled and talented boxers globally. To name one, Khaosai Galaxy is from Thailand. Khaosai is a former professional boxer who is known for being able to defend his WBA belt 19 times in seven years. He is also a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Enthusiasts considered him as one of the greatest boxers of all time.

Boxing betting is a massive industry, just like in its near neighbor, in the Philippines. For the millions of boxing fans in Thailand, each main event is a reason to gamble a little bit of money on their top fighters.

Mixed Martial Arts

Mixed martial arts is a full-contact combat sport that includes striking, grappling, and ground fighting. It is also considered one of the most savage sports in the world. Muay Thai is similar to this sport but MMA is far behind in terms of popularity, at least with locals. Thus, Thais are fond of watching and playing this. May it be for a professional league or just a simple physical plan.

MMA is also referred to as “cage fighting, no holds barred (NHB),” as the match happens in a closed octagon. Though it has vicious graphics, this sport is one of the most viewed in the world. More than 5.6 million people watch an average high-profile fight, excluding those thousands in the arena. MMA is also taking very large bets from a passionate Thai audience.

Dota 2

Dota 2 is among the most famous and oldest esports globally, and it dominates even Thailand. According to Hotspawn, Dota 2 is a multiplayer online battle arena that “combines elements of real-time strategy and tower defense.” Millions of individuals around the world are playing this game alongside other esports

In Thailand, a 17-year-old teenager, 23savage, was recognized by Fnatic as a promising player in the region. He started to play in a professional esports league at an early age, competing with other pro players.

Though Dota 2 is a famous game in Thailand, some locals said that well-off individuals only play the game. It is because not everyone can afford a personal computer with an installed game.

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

Another esports on the list is Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. It is created by two of the famous gaming developers, Valve and Hidden Path Entertainment. Counter-Strike is a multiplayer shooting game, and the Global Offensive is its fourth installment. Terrorists and Counter-terrorists team battle it out on the arena based on various objective-based modes.

In 2020, there will be 1.3 million players who stream Counter-Strike on Twitch, a famous streaming platform. This number doesn’t include those who don’t stream their games. With its popularity, Counter-Strike earned 120 million in revenue in a year.

If you want to install the game, it is only available on Windows and Mac with a 15 GB size.

Poker

Poker is a game of mind and personality. There are two forms of poker, the draw and stud. The difference between the two is that some cards are dealt up in Stud Poker. This rule ensures that all the players will see the cards in each player’s hands. A card value of scoring is also set to identify the winner, in which “Five of a Kind” is the highest.

The key to winning this game is confidence and street smartness. Especially on how much you will bet for your cards. If you keep dropping, you might go home with nothing. So be firm, but learn how to read facial expressions and body language. Foreigners and locals alike love to play poker in Thailand.

Blackjack

Also known as Twenty-one, Blackjack is another card game on the list. The rules of this game are simple yet thrilling. According to Bicycle Cards, “participants have to beat the dealer by getting a count as close to 21.” The players should do it without going over 21. It looks easy, but it can be competitive as well.

The value for each card in this game varies among the players. Thus, it is best to clear this out before the match. Just like any card game, the fun part about this is the betting. Each player will place their bet in the beginning and hope for them to have a good one.

If you love fun games and visit Thailand soon, this list aims to help you decide what game is for you. Just play responsibly.

References:

http://www.enconcept.com/downloads/2011_03/31/E-Ambassador_Tutoring_4.pdf

https://asia.yokkao.com/pages/what-is-muay-thai

https://www.hotspawn.com/dota2/guides/what-is-dota-2

https://www.ranker.com/review/khaosai-galaxy/1370624?ref=node_name&pos=1&l=342229

https://sea.ign.com/dota-2/154193/interview/up-close-and-personal-with-23savage-thailands-teenage-dota-2-phenom

https://bicyclecards.com/how-to-play/basics-of-poker/

https://www.statista.com/topics/4267/counter-strike-global-offensive/

https://bicyclecards.com/how-to-play/blackjack/

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First-Time Buyer’s Guide to the UK Property Market

First-Time Buyer’s Guide to the UK Property Market

Entering the UK property market as a first-time buyer can feel both exciting and daunting. The process is filled with potential pitfalls and complex decisions, but with the right guidance, it can be navigated smoothly. The estate agents in Yorkshire demystify the journey from the initial decision to buy a home to the moment you step over the threshold of your new property.

Understanding Your Financial Position

The first and perhaps most crucial step in the home-buying process is understanding your financial situation. This includes assessing your savings, income, and current debts. Here’s how you can prepare:

1. Deposit: Generally, you’ll need at least 5% of the property price as a deposit, though aiming for 10% or more can provide better mortgage rates.

2. Income and Expenses: Use a budget planner to assess your monthly income against your expenses. This will help you understand how much you can afford in monthly mortgage repayments.

3. Credit Score: Lenders will evaluate your credit score to determine your mortgage eligibility. So it’s important to have a good credit score, and you should work on it if required.

4. Mortgage Options: Speak to a mortgage advisor to understand different types of mortgages, such as fixed-rate, variable-rate, and help-to-buy schemes.

Getting a Mortgage Agreement in Principle

A Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP) is a statement from a lender indicating how much they’ll likely lend you. You will be a more attractive buyer with an AIP as it shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared.

Deciding What You Want

Before you start viewing properties, it’s essential to know what you’re looking for. Consider the following factors:

1. Location: Proximity to work, schools, public transport, and amenities are key. Research neighbourhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

2. Property Type: Decide whether you want a flat, terraced house, semi-detached, or detached property. Each has its pros and cons.

3. Must-Haves: Make a list of non-negotiables, such as the number of bedrooms, garden size, and parking facilities.

4. Future Proofing: Consider your future needs. Are you planning to start a family? Do you need space for a home office?

Starting the Property Search

With a clear idea of what you’re looking for, you can begin your property search. Here are some tips:

1. Use Online Portals: Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket are excellent starting points. Set up alerts to get notified of new listings that meet your criteria.

2. Visit Estate Agents: Register with local estate agents who can provide insights into the market and inform you of new properties before they’re listed online.

3. Attend Viewings: Don’t rush this part. Visit several properties to get a feel for what’s available in your price range.

Making an Offer

Once you find a property you love, it’s time to make an offer. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Research: Check the selling prices of similar properties in the area to gauge a fair offer.

2. Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate. The starting point is most usually the asking price.

3. Conditions: You might include conditions in your offer, such as the inclusion of certain fixtures or a specific moving date.

The Legal Process

If your offer is accepted, the legal process begins. You’ll need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legalities. Here’s what to expect:

1. Conveyancing: This is the legal transfer of property ownership. Your solicitor will handle this, including conducting searches, dealing with the Land Registry, and transferring the funds.

2. Surveys and Inspections: Arrange for a property survey to check for structural issues. There are different types of surveys, from basic condition reports to full structural surveys.

3. Mortgage Finalisation: Once the survey is complete and satisfactory, your mortgage can be finalised.

4. Exchange of Contracts: This is when the sale becomes legally binding. You’ll pay your deposit at this stage.

5. Completion: On the agreed completion date, the remaining money is transferred, and you receive the keys to your new home.

Moving In

Moving day can be hectic, but planning can ease the stress:

1. Hire a Removal Company: Book a reliable removal company well in advance. Discover the best deals by getting quotes from multiple companies.

2. Pack Strategically: Label your boxes by room and keep essential items accessible.

3. Notify Utilities and Change Address: Inform your utility providers of your move date and update your address with banks, the DVLA, and other important institutions.

Settling In

Get settled. Introduce yourself to the neighbours, familiarise yourself with the local area, and really start to make the place your own.

Here are a few final tips:

1. Safety Checks: Make sure that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working, and make sure that you know where the gas and electricity meters are located.

2. Maintenance Plan: Keep a record of the smooth functioning of your new home with a maintenance schedule, complete with regular checks and seasonal tasks.

3. Personal Touches: Add personal touches to make the space feel like home. This can be from putting up family photos or redoing the decoration in your rooms.

Conclusion

Buying your very first home in the UK is most definitely a milestone, difficult and full of challenges but rewarding in the end. Such a philosophy guides you in understanding finances and knowing what you want to achieve from detailed research, and seeking professional advice that confidently helps you navigate the property market. Yes, the journey may have its hurdles, but in the end—owning your own home—the reward will be worth the effort. Welcome to your new chapter!

SEE ALSO: Conquer the Chaos: Hacks to Clean Your Home in Half the Time

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5 Health Benefits of Regular Pedicures

5 Health Benefits of Regular Pedicures

There’s nothing quite like a pedicure to keep your feet looking and feeling their best, but did you know that pedicures do more than simply enhance the appearance of your feet? Many people don’t realize that regular pedicures can come with a wide range of health benefits that can promote the well-being of your feet, so here are some ways that your routine pedicure keeps both your toenails and feet in the best condition possible!

Smoother Skin

One of the biggest misconceptions about pedicures is that they only cater to and look after your toenails. While you’ll definitely be leaving each session with a fresh coat of nail polish, your pedicure can also do wonders for the health of your skin. Aside from trimming and shaping your nails and cuticles, you’ll notice that your nail technician also dedicates a few steps to the skin of your feet.

After inspecting your feet and looking for any issues or imperfections that may need to be addressed, your technician will work on an exfoliating scrub to remove any dead skin cells. This step may also be aided by a foot file, which can be used to buff away any calluses and other problem areas manually.

Softer Skin

After your nail technician addresses all the problem areas of your feet and removes any unwanted dead skin cells, he or she will often massage in a moisturizing product, such as lotion, cream, or butter, to ensure that your skin is properly moisturized. These products contain skin-loving ingredients that will ensure that your feet have everything they need to look and feel their best so that you can walk out of your pedicure with a renewed sense of confidence.

Healthier Nails

After your pedicure session, your nails will not only look better due to the fresh coat of nail polish, but they’ll also be healthier and stronger. This is because your nail technician takes their time to ensure that your nails are properly looked after through steps that include deep cleaning, nail trimming, nail filing, and cuticle care. All of these things work together to prevent issues like ingrown nails from occurring, all the while improving the appearance of your nails.

Increased Blood Circulation

While the specific steps included in your pedicure will depend on the beauty salon, most pedicures will have a massage step somewhere in the mix. One of the often overlooked benefits of these massages is the increased blood circulation, which can deliver more nutrients and oxygen to your feet and nails, promoting their health and appearance. Aside from that, better blood flow means reduced tension and soreness, as well as better distributed heat throughout your body.

Reduced Infections

A significant amount of dirt and bacteria can build up on your feet without you even realizing it, but pedicures can be a great way to prevent these from happening in the first place. The exfoliation step of a pedicure removes dead skin cells as well as all the debris that may have accumulated underneath, and the deep cleaning of your toenails and cuticles also gets rid of any impurities that may have slipped beneath them, which can stop infections from happening.

These are some of the many health benefits that you can look forward to at your next pedicure appointment. However, it’s worth noting that you need to book regular sessions to truly reap all the rewards. This can be difficult, especially when you don’t feel like driving to your nearest nail salon after a long day, but the good news is that you can enjoy the salon experience in the comfort of your own home with a home pedicure service.

SEE ALSO: Transfer Learning in Natural Language Processing

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Commercial Boiler Installation Services London

Commercial Boiler Installation Services London

For businesses in the bustling city of London, having a reliable heating system is crucial. Whether you’re opening a new office, expanding your current premises, or simply upgrading an outdated system, commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London are essential to ensure your operations run smoothly and efficiently. Proper installation and maintenance of commercial boilers can make a significant difference in energy efficiency, cost savings, and the overall comfort of your workspace.

The Importance of Professional Installation

When it comes to installing a commercial boiler, professional expertise is paramount. Here’s why:

  1. Efficiency and Performance: Professional installation ensures that your boiler operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. A well-installed boiler can effectively meet the heating demands of your business without unnecessary energy waste.
  2. Safety: Commercial boilers are complex systems that require precise installation to operate safely. Professional installers adhere to stringent safety standards and regulations, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of your employees and premises.
  3. Compliance with Regulations: Commercial properties are subject to various building codes and regulations. Professional installers are well-versed in these requirements and ensure that your boiler system complies with all local laws and standards.
  4. Longevity and Reliability: Proper installation is critical to the longevity and reliability of your boiler. A professional installation can prevent common issues such as leaks, pressure problems, and system failures, ensuring that your boiler runs smoothly for years to come.

Key Considerations for Commercial Boiler Installation

When planning for a commercial boiler installation, several factors need to be considered:

  1. Type of Boiler: The type of boiler you choose will depend on your business’s specific needs. Options include gas boilers, oil boilers, and electric boilers, each with its own set of advantages. Consulting with a professional can help you determine the best choice for your business.
  2. Sizing and Capacity: The boiler’s size and capacity must match the heating demands of your commercial space. An undersized boiler will struggle to meet your needs, while an oversized one will lead to inefficiencies and higher costs.
  3. Location: The placement of your boiler affects its efficiency and accessibility for maintenance. Professional installers can help you choose the optimal location for your boiler.
  4. Integration with Existing Systems: If you’re upgrading or replacing an existing boiler, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your current heating system. Professional installers can seamlessly integrate the new boiler with your existing setup.

Choosing the Right Installation Service

Selecting the right installation service provider is crucial to the success of your boiler installation project. Consider the following when making your choice:

  • Experience and Expertise: Look for a provider with a proven track record in commercial boiler installations. Experienced installers can handle the complexities of commercial systems and provide high-quality workmanship.
  • Reputation: Check reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the provider’s reliability and customer satisfaction.
  • Comprehensive Services: Choose a provider that offers a full range of services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. This ensures that all your boiler needs are met by a single, trusted source.

In London, ROWLEN is a reputable name known for delivering top-notch commercial boiler installation services. Their team of experts is dedicated to providing efficient, safe, and compliant installations tailored to the unique needs of businesses.

Conclusion

Investing in professional commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London is essential for ensuring efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability. By choosing an experienced and reputable service provider like ROWLEN, you can rest assured that your heating system will be installed correctly and maintained to the highest standards. Proper installation not only enhances the performance of your boiler but also contributes to the overall comfort and productivity of your business environment.

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