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Should Thailand Adopt a German Electoral System

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There have been discussions on adopting the German electoral system in Thailand. A German electoral system will reduce the possibility of one party gaining control of the parliament. The German electoral was created to prevent another dictatorship after the electoral system of the Weimar Republic led to the rise of Hitler.

According to the Thai constitution from 1997, taking into account the constitutional amendments in 2011, the lower house in Thailand is divided into 375 single-member districts, in which voters can cast a single constituency vote for their preferred candidate. The elected candidates will directly get a seat in the parliament. In addition, there are 125 party list seats to be elected from a single nationwide district. Voters get to choose one party from the party list. Each party ranks their own candidates. The number of all party-list votes is then added up and divided by 125 in order to get the figure of the number of votes required per party-list MP.

The German electoral right is similar to this. It is based on a mix of two electoral systems consisting of a plurality voting system and system for proportional representation. The German parliament (the Bundestag) has 598 seats. Every person with a right to vote has two votes: One is the constituency vote for the direct mandate (List A) and one is the party vote (List B).

In order to be eligible for list seats, a party has to earn at least 5% of the total party vote. This is to ensure the functionality of the parliament to ensure that there are not too many small parties that block action in the parliament. The only exception from this percentage are parties that have won three direct mandates on List A. The 598 seats of the Bundestag are split into half: 299 seats are eligible over List A, the other 299 seats are eligible over List B.

With the first vote, List A, the voter can directly elect a politician from the list. The person in an electoral district who won most of the votes, will directly get one seat in the Bundestag. The first vote also serves to personalize the election. The electoral districts have to consist of nearly the same population to ensure that every vote has the same power.

With the second vote, List B, the voter can vote for a party. The second vote is the essential vote for the assembly of the parliament. All votes on List B are added up and allocated seats according to the percentage of votes they receive. By setting up lists, the parties’ influence who they want to send to the parliament over the second vote. Those on the party list who have already won seats in the first vote are removed from the list and then the representatives are selected from the remaining members on the party list.

Unlike Thailand, the two votes in Germany are linked. A party`s seat in one tier is dependent to the number of seats it has in the second tier. This is to reduce the disparity between a party`s share from the direct vote and its share of the parliamentary seats. The percentage of party votes shall determine the share of all seats a party wins. If a party wins 20 percent of the votes, it should also gain 20 percent of the seats in the parliament.

Another difference between Thailand and Germany is that Thailand allocates party list seats on a national level while in Germany the party lists are allocated to a local level. So in Germany, voters will select from party list members that reside in their own district. This is for the reason that the voter is able to determine an identifiable representative of his district. The link between the representatives and the voters shall not be destroyed.

The combination of the two electoral systems in Germany is supposed to ensure that every vote counts the same. While the vote of a citizen, who directly voted for a representative on List A, is not counted if the representative loses the direct election, every vote on List B is being considered. However, the first vote ensures that every part of Germany is represented in the Parliament.

The German electoral system ensures a link between the elected representatives and the regions they represent. It reduces the disparity in representation that can occur because of the two possible votes, one for the direct mandate and one for the party.

If Thailand were to adopt the German electoral system, large national political parties will be weakened in favor of political parties that are favored by the local constituents. This increases the possibility that a minor parties will gain seats in an election. These changes to the electoral system with the addition of a partially unelected senate makes it nearly impossible for one party to dominate the government.

Mr. Ulrich Schmitt is currently a legal intern at Siam Legal International in Bangkok. He is a graduate of the University of Trier, Germany with a state examination in German Law. He is currently in the process of completing his second state exam at the Judicial District of the Provincial High Court and Court of Appeals in Koblenz, Germany.

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Lifestyles

5 Top Tips for Picking the Best Bangkok Spa for Couples

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5 Top Tips for Picking the Best Bangkok Spa for Couples

Bangkok is renowned for its luxurious and indulgent spa scene, offering a wide array of options for couples seeking a romantic experience. Deeply rooted in ancient Thai traditions, Bangkok’s spas blend time-honored healing practices with modern luxuries and innovative treatments. The city’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its spas, which often encompass elements of Thai architecture, art, and aromatherapy.

For couples, a spa day in Bangkok promises a chance to escape the city’s bustling energy and delve into a revitalizing retreat designed to strengthen their bond and refresh their spirits. Intimate couple’s suites, side-by-side treatments, and tailored rituals allow partners to savor quality time together.

However, with so many choices available, selecting the perfect spa can be difficult. To ensure you and your partner have a truly memorable and relaxing time, these five key tips will guide you in selecting the ideal Bangkok spa for couples, as well as the reasons why you should select Bangkok’s Spa, like Treasure Spa, as your go-to destination for a romantic pampering trip.

Consider the Ambiance and Impressive Setting

The ambiance sets the tone for your entire spa experience. You may opt for spas with a peaceful, zen-like atmosphere achieved through thoughtful design elements like natural materials, soft lighting, and calming water features. Look for romantic touches like candlelit walkways, private outdoor treatment salas, or thatched-roof bungalows surrounded by lush gardens. Moreover, sensory additions like the gentle soundtrack of nature sounds can significantly elevate the atmosphere, helping couples to disconnect from daily stresses and focus solely on their sessions. These thoughtful touches ensure that every aspect of the spa environment contributes to a holistic sense of peace and relaxation.

Explore Couple’s Treatment Options

Customized couple’s packages help you relax and reconnect side-by-side. Popular choices include the traditional Thai massage performed by two therapists working in seamless synchronicity. For an aromatic experience, you can opt for specialized aromatherapy massages incorporating essential oil blends tailored to your desired state, whether invigorating or deeply relaxing. Indulgent rituals like the Tok Sen massage with warm herbal poultices or a rejuvenating coconut scrub and milk bath can be enhanced for couples. Some spas offer contemporary fusion treatments combining ancient Eastern practices with modern Western techniques.

Evaluate the Facilities and Amenities

Many Bangkok’s spas provide luxurious facilities beyond just treatment rooms. Private relaxation lounges allow you to unwind together pre/post-treatment while sipping herbal tea. His and her changing areas with luxe aromatic steam rooms can elevate the experience. Indulgent extras like a couples’ hydrotherapy circuit with vitality pools, ice baths, and experience showers add perfect pleasure. Additionally, many spas offer wellness consultations that personalize your spa expectations, adding more benefits to your healthy lifestyle. Outdoor relaxation areas in some spas merge natural beauty with comfort, providing a perfect setting to connect with nature together.

Prioritize Privacy and Personalized Service

For an intimate experience, spas should offer discretion and personalized attention. You can choose boutique spas with limited guests and customizable treatments using premium organic products. Attentive therapists should tailor therapies to your needs and priorities like muscle tension or skin concerns. Resorts with exclusive spa villas providing the utmost privacy are ideal for couples. For a truly private retreat, consider spas that offer exclusive services such as candlelit dinners post-treatment or private yoga sessions that improve both physical and emotional connection.

Consider Location and Convenience

A spa’s setting contributes to the overall mood. Urban oases tucked away on hotel grounds or rooftops provide an escape from Bangkok’s streets. For a romantic getaway, destination spas at luxury beach resorts or riverside retreats offer picturesque natural surroundings. Proximity to your hotel and access to other recreational facilities like pools or fitness centers can add more convenience. Moreover, spas strategically placed in culturally rich areas offer the unique opportunity to immerse in local traditions and arts. Such settings provide scenic beauty while adding a layer of cultural enrichment to the spa experience, making it more memorable and distinct.

Why Treasure Spa is the Best Pick for Couples

Treasure Spa in Bangkok is an exceptional choice for couples seeking shared relaxation. Known for its serene environment and expertly crafted spa packages, Treasure Spa offers couples the opportunity to unwind together in luxurious settings. Their specialized couples’ treatments combine contemporary and traditional therapies, ensuring a memorable spa day. The spa’s excellent services combined with the privacy of dedicated suites, allow couples to enjoy their treatments together.

Treasure Spa’s spa packages offer a range of luxurious spa options. One interesting package is the “Rose & Champagne” which spans 240 minutes and is designed for ultimate indulgence with floral and bubbly elements. The “Siam Paradise” and “Halo Ayurveda” packages offer similarly extensive treatments with cultural and holistic spa retreats. Treasure Spa is available in 2 prime locations in the trendy Thong Lor neighborhood and the bustling Siam district, ensuring an unforgettable memory for every visitor.

Bangkok’s spa offers couples a perfect mix of relaxation and cultural immersion. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking quality time together, the right spa can provide the ultimate romantic retreat in the vibrant city of Bangkok. As you navigate the choices, Treasure Spa is an attractive retreat for couples looking to enrich their relationship through a shared spa treatment.

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Thai Legal

Thailand Elite Visa: The Easiest Long-Term Visa in Thailand

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Thailand Elite Visa: The Easiest Long-Term Visa in Thailand

Thailand Elite Visa: With its diverse culinary scene, bustling city life, and reasonable cost of living, Thailand is often pictured as an expat’s dream destination to settle down. However, many travelers are not able to meet the stringent requirements set by most long-term visa options in Thailand and require an easier, more streamlined path to an extended stay in the Land of Smiles.

Enter Thailand Privilege, a prestigious visa program that grants foreign nationals the Thailand Elite Visa, enabling them to live in Thailand for an extended period while enjoying an exclusive and unmatched list of benefits.

For a one-time, up-front membership fee, the Thailand Elite Visa offers multiple entry privileges and a range of program options, accommodating stays of up to 15 years and beyond without the need for re-entry permits. This visa was designed with various demographics in mind, and is a great option for:

  • Business professionals
  • Digital nomads
  • Retirees
  • Investors
  • High-income global citizens
  • Families relocating to Thailand

The combination of extensive benefits and a convenient, flexible long-term visa has made this visa one of the most popular in Thailand.

Benefits of the Thailand Privilege Program

In addition to the Thai Elite Visa, the Thailand Privilege Program offers a range of perks that can be customized based on the member’s preferences and how they’d like to spend their time in Thailand. There are four membership tiers to choose from, allowing members to further tailor their level of benefits. The standard benefits included in every membership package are:

  • Visa validity for up to 20 years based on membership tier
  • Exclusive fast-tracked immigration procedures at airports upon arrival and departure
  • Discounts at hotels, spas, restaurants, department stores, hospitals, and golf courses
  • Dedicated assistance with immigration services, eg. 90-day reporting services
  • Thailand Privilege points for redeeming perks and benefits

Benefits Breakdown

The benefits of the Thailand Privilege program are too numerous to list in their entirety here, but there are several notable perks that all levels of membership enjoy. These include:

  • VIP greeting and escort services upon arrival and departure at international airports in Thailand
  • Expedited processing through immigration and passport control
  • Discounts at leading fine dining establishments and retail shopping outlets
  • Yearly birthday gift
  • Member contact center to provide 24/7 English-language assistance with any Thailand Privilege issue (Japanese, Korean, and Mandarin services are available from 6:00 to 21:00 ICT Time)
  • And many more

These benefits are “always on” and can be redeemed an unlimited number of times if terms and conditions are met. However, the biggest benefits come from the Privilege Points system.

Thailand Privilege Points

Instead of locking members into a set selection of perks, Thailand Privilege enables members to choose which major benefits they receive by granting them a yearly allotment of points. These points can be spent on a wide spectrum of perks. Again, there are too many to list all of them, but here are some notable ones in each of the five benefit categories:

  • “Stay”
    • Complimentary hotel stays
    • Assistance with 90-day reporting and other immigration tasks
  • “Travel”
    • Free domestic flights
    • Free car rentals
    • Access to airport lounges
  • “Leisure”
    • Free rounds of golf at leading courses
    • Zipline outings, elephant experiences, cooking classes, and other fun activities
    • Access to co-working spaces
  • “Health”
    • Spa and massage packages
    • Health checkups
    • Wellness treatments
  • Wealth
    • Wealth advisory sessions
    • Legal consultations

Each member receives an amount of points depending on their Thailand Privilege membership tier and can redeem a perk from the list by paying the associated cost as many times as they want, provided terms and conditions are met. Note that points do not roll over, and are lost if not spent within the allotted time period.

The Thailand Privilege Membership Tiers

Applicants to the Thailand Privilege program have four membership levels to choose from when applying. Each tier has its own distinct price, but all of them grant the Thai Elite Visa and provide access to more or less the same list of benefits. What sets them apart most is the duration of the visas provided and the amount of benefits the member gets.

Gold Membership

At 900,000 THB (Thai Baht), Thailand Privilege Gold Membership is the most affordable way to gain access to a single 5-year Thai Elite Visa. This is perfect for digital nomads looking to spend a significant portion of their time in Thailand, but this isn’t the only demographic it appeals to. Various other groups are drawn to its benefits, including:

  • Individuals with moderate financial means who wish to travel carefree to Thailand whenever they want with perks and privileges waiting for them when they arrive.
  • Retirees who desire a comfortable lifestyle in Thailand without having to navigate through immigration complexities.
  • Investors who have made significant investments in Thailand and are seeking long-term residency privileges to tend to their assets.

Gold members get 20 privilege points annually to spend on perks. Additionally, Gold is the only tier that does not allow applicants to include family members on their memberships.

Platinum Membership

For 1.5 million THB, Thailand Privilege Platinum members get a Thai Elite Visa with an initial validity of 5 years, which is extendable for another 5 years. This option is perfect for families seeking a smooth and comfortable transition to Thailand for a longer-term stay, as Platinum is the most affordable tier that enables applicants to get visas for their dependents as well. Additional family members cost only 1 million THB per person.

Platinum members get 35 privilege points per year, but note that families will have to share this pool of points. When additional members are added onto a Thailand Privilege membership, they do not get their own allotment of points, only the core member does.

Diamond Membership

For 2.5 million THB, Thailand Privilege Diamond members get a Thai Elite Visa also with an initial validity of 5 years, but is extendable for another 5 years twice, offering a total of 15 years. This option is catered for higher income individuals, particularly business people, high-earning entrepreneurs, and affluent families who plan on spending a lot of time in Thailand and want to enjoy the most convenient and luxurious life possible. As with Platinum, Diamond members can add family members to their membership for 1.5 million THB.

Members receive a substantial increase in privilege points, totaling 55 points per year, allowing greater access to exclusive services and a larger pool for a family to share.

Reserve Membership

Thailand Privilege Reserve membership is available only by direct invitation from the Thai government, making it truly exclusive as only 100 invitations are sent out each year. It provides a 5-year Thai Elite visa that is renewable 4 times for free for a total stay of 20 years; however, Reserve members can opt to continue renewing the visa indefinitely. There is no way to guarantee an invitation to the Reserve tier, but applicants can join a different tier of membership and upgrade to Reserve when they receive one.

Reserve tier members receive a substantial allocation of 120 privilege points each year, significantly surpassing those offered by other tiers. Furthermore, the membership offers the distinctive feature of allowing membership transfer, and allows family members to be added to the membership for 2 million THB each.

Thailand Privilege Visa Application Process

Applicants for Thailand Privilege should first consult with a General Sales and Services Agent (GSSA). This is a government-certified organization authorized to provide free assistance with Thailand Privilege program applications.

These GSSAs are highly knowledgeable on the program, and provide valuable consulting as well as application review services, which minimize the chances of the application being delayed or outright rejected. One of their most useful services is the gathering and preparation of all the documents required by a Thailand Privilege application.

These documents include:

  • A completed Thailand Privilege Membership Application form corresponding to the desired membership type
  • Membership application forms for additional family members (if applicable)
  • A Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) form
  • A Membership Application Payment Form
  • A recent color photocopy of the passport
  • A recent color passport-size photo against a white background
  • Supplementary documents as needed, such as for adding family members or if the applicant is a previous or current holder of an ED Visa

Once an applicant has gathered all of these documents, the GSSA will review the application to ensure the completion and accuracy of it. The applicant is then required to pay a 50,000 THB application fee, which will be deducted from the total membership fee upon successful completion of the next phase.

Upon submission of the application, Thai immigration authorities will conduct a background check, which typically takes 4 to 8 weeks, with the duration varying based on the nationality and circumstances of the applicant.

After the background check is successfully cleared, applicants will receive an approval letter along with an invoice. This invoice is for the membership fee payable to Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd., minus the application fee that was already paid. Payment can be made officially only through bank transfer or credit card. However, other payment methods, such as cryptocurrency or Alipay, can be facilitated by a GSSA.

Once payment is completed and proof of payment is provided, membership activation will take place within 7-12 business days. Following activation, applicants will receive a welcome letter and membership ID. Access to the included services becomes available upon activation of membership.

Finally, as a Thailand Privilege member with a valid member ID, members can schedule an appointment to affix their Thai Elite Visa to their passport through the member contact center.

There are three available options for this:

  1. At the Thai Embassy or Consulate in the member’s home country.
  2. Upon arrival at the immigration station in Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, Phuket International Airport, or Chiang Mai International Airport.
  3. At the Bangkok Immigration Office (Chaeng Wattana).

Finding the Best Thailand Elite Visa Agent

Prospective applicants looking for the most knowledgeable, skilled, and reliable GSSA should contact Siam Legal. We are a full-service law firm as well as one of the largest and most successful GSSAs in Thailand, as recognized by the Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd. We have over 20 years of experience helping clients from across the globe find the right Thai visa solutions for their needs, and our expert Thailand Privilege team ensures a swift and smooth application process with minimal chance of delay or rejection.

Not only do we provide these services free of charge thanks to government subsidies, but Siam Legal also offers a referral program that enables members to earn a commission for helping their friends and family acquire their Thai Elite Visas. All this makes a Thailand Privilege membership from Siam Legal the most convenient, effective, and rewarding way to secure an easy long-term stay in Thailand.

Call our Thailand Elite Visa Agent Now! Mobile: +66 80-005-9642

https://www.siam-legal.com/elite/

Siam Legal International (Bangkok Office)

Address: 18th Floor, Unit 1806 Two Pacific Place, 142 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Phone: +66 2 254 8900

Email: [email protected]

Siam Legal (Phuket)

Address: 123, Cherngtalay, Thalang, 27-28 BangTao Place Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand

Phone: +66 76 326 322

Email: [email protected]

Siam Legal (Chiang Mai)

Address: Curve Mall 2nd floor Room C219-C220, 215/2 Chang Klan Road, Mueang, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand

Phone: +66 53 818 306

Email: [email protected]

 

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Thai Legal

Gold Price Today, November. 1st, 2023 – WEDNESDAY

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Gold Price Today

(CTN NEWS) – Gold Price – Gold Price Today, November 01, 2023, today’s gold price news, today’s gold bar price, today’s most recent gold price, gold today, price Gold today, gold ornaments, 1 baht, Yaowarat

Today’s gold price, November 01, 2023, Hua Seng Heng, Jin Hua Heng, Mae Thong Bai, Mae Thong Suk, 1 Salung gold price, Mae Thong Suk gold price, Aurora gold price, and 1 baht gold price are among the available gold prices.

Gold Price Today 01-11-2023 13:02

Today’s gold price at 5 famous shops in Yaowarat Buy Sold out
96.5% gold bars 33,900.00 34,000.00
Gold jewelry 96.5% 33,291.400.04 34,500.00
Jin Hua Heng gold price, 96.5% gold bars 33,900.00 34,000.00
Aurora gold price, 96.5% gold bar 33,900.0050.00 34,000.0050.00
Hua Seng Heng gold price, 96.5% gold bars 33,940.0050.00 33,990.0050.00
Mae Thong Suk gold price, 96.5% gold bars 33,925.0035.00 34,010.0035.00
Mae Thong Bai gold price, 96.5% gold bars 33,900.00 34,000.00

Gold Price Today

weight of gold price/baht Average Commission Price includes gratuity/baht
half salung gold 4,019 500 4,519
gold 1 salung 8,038 8,538
Gold 2 Salung/50 Satang 16,075 16,575
gold 1 baht 32,150 32,650

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