fabiochiu/medium-articles huggingface dataset:
Fairytale Land
By: Mike Small
Tags: TV, Brexit

Imagine broadcasting this.

Imagine watching this.

Jeremy Vine show, part one.

“I mean, for goodness sake, Scotland, how is it going to survive, what does it have?”

“Oil. And a monster in a lake. And?… “ pic.twitter.com/WLVZ6LW9ab - Robert (@RobDunsmore) June 25, 2019

Apart from the dripping contempt, the weird editorialising, the inert audience, the complete lack of self-consciousness, one of the funniest aspects is the framing as Britain being all about The Queen. Paul Burrell, a daytime TV remnant of the Diana Cult is called upon for his constitutional wisdom and regales us with the news that:

“Nicola Sturgeon would love to read this, that Scotland would have devolution” (eh?!).

Jeremy Vine intones that Scottish independence: “That would hurt the Queen”.

Burrell blurts:

“… It would hurt the Queen, her Commonwealth and the United Kingdom is her life”

… as everyone nods sagely.

We seem to have slipped into an alternate dimension of English fantasy where Britain is reborn as a Ladybird Book, the Queen is a goodly woman fighting the evil witch in the north.

Then, piling stupidity on stupidity, Carole Malone proclaims that: “Ever time they do a poll, figures now are higher for staying within the union than they were at the time of the referendum … “

[Narrator: “No, you moron the entire premise of the piece that you are discussing is that they are not”].

Then Jeremy pipes up: “Nicola would Boris tell Scotland to ‘Hop it”?

Nicola isn’t too sure.

Jeremy continues: “I’ve got no evidence of any interest that Boris Johnson has in Scotland whatsoever.”

“I’ve never even heard him mention it.”

“I think Brown might be right about that” says Jeremy “Boris doesn’t have an affinity with Scotland, he’s not a Scottish sort of person” he explains.

You can watch the whole shitshow here.

One one level this is just the dregs of moron culture and it’s as meaningless dross as the crap churned out from every orifice of shit media on many platforms.

But it remains an insight into mainstream English culture at some level that somewhere some producer booked these people and scripted this dire broadcast and that somewhere people were sitting taking it all in.

The Skintland notion of Scotland as a sort of blasted heath is a well-established trope in English visions — and here again it gets a run-out.

The problem is the sort of nakedly hostile, puerile contempt that is on display here has no parallels, and would rightly be condemned by everyone if it was to be parroted from the studios of Pacific Quay. It is still stunning to watch it unfold and worrying for the future if these attitudes are wider than then panel of Channel 5’s daytime output.
HBOMax Now Going to Advertising Supported Tier Too
By: Saira Aziz
Tags: Film, Entertainment Lawyer, Entertainment Attorney, TV, Hollywood

Are we entering the age of the free, ad-supported streaming tier? It would appear that the big-name streamers think so! This week we see WarnerMedia CEO Jason Kilar announce a new, ad-supported tier for HBO Max, hoping to boost subs and bring new value to the service. BLAKE & WANG P.A Entertainment Lawyer Los Angeles dives deeper into this unusual development- the first time we’ve seen a paid streamer add an AVOD tier retroactively, instead of developing from an ad-supported base.

Ad-supported tiers now common

According to Kilar, this is a recognition of the fact that ‘most people on this planet are not wealthy,’ and thus the viability of advertising-supported streaming channels to reduce overall cost on the consumer is high. Despite this enthusiasm for the format, he was low on details for the new tier. We have yet to hear much about launch date, pricing, or the overall ad-enabled experience that will be offered.

This ad-sponsored tier will slot in below their $15 subscription service, which launched in May 2020 last year. This is, of course, a price that puts it at the top of the streamer costs, with Netflix slipping into second at $14. Nor is WarnerMedia entirely free to discount and bundle as are some other streamers, given they are governed by legacy distribution. It’s actually a first in the industry even attempting to introduce an ad-tier retroactively. While we’ve seen a basic ad-supported tier work well for CBS and Hulu, these were the original tiers onto which pricier, ad-free experiences were subsequently added.

HBO Max’s stats examined

As of the end of 2020, HBO Max had netted 17.2 million subscriber activations, adding to the roughly 25 million traditional HBO subs. These muddy the water greatly, as they can choose to activate an HBO Max sub for free. WarnerMedia’s target for 2025 is a lofty 50 million people domestically, with 75–90 million overall.

There’s also, of course, the small matter that HBO has been associated with an ad-free experience for almost 50 years. Will they easily be able to sell a new audience on AVOD services? It’s been acknowledged by Killar that this is the challenge ahead.

Nor was he very forthcoming on the matter of theatrical release windows- which WArnerMedia has notoriously opted to co-mingle with straight-to-streaming on HBO Max for at least 2021, a decision that’s still generating shockwaves in the industry. This decision, apparently, has been kicked to the 2nd half of the year. He did, however, take pains to come over as buoyant towards the theatrical industry.

Overall, however, the development of the HBO Max AVOD tier will be one to watch with interest, despite our current lack of specifics. It seems WarnerMedia is bargaining on the sweet spot for subscriptions per household settling in the 6–7 area, and on being able to earn their share of that market.
Netflix’s long-awaited shuffle button will arrive this year
Tags: Entertainment, Tvs, Services, Gear

Can’t decide what to watch on Netflix? If so, heads up: the streaming giant appears poised to roll out a feature that will pick something for you.



Related product Roku Ultra (2020) Read TechHive's reviewMSRP $99.99See it Netflix execs announced the long-percolating feature, which will allow Netflix users to “skip browsing entirely, click one button and we’ll pick a title for them just to instantly play,” during the company’s quarterly earnings call on Tuesday, according to Variety. Netflix co-CEO Reed Hastings jokingly referred to the still-unnamed feature as the “I’m feeling lucky” button.



Netflix’s shuffle feature has broken cover many times over the past several months, in one form or another. At some point, it was a shuffle feature that played a random episode of a favorite TV series, while at other times it was a “Play Something” option in the navigation bar. More recently, the feature has popped up as a “Shuffle Play” button on the home screen of its connected TV app.



[ Further reading: Amazon Prime Video vs Hulu vs Netflix ]Details about Netflix’s upcoming shuffle feature are still sketchy, but in past tests, the Shuffle Play function hasn’t been completely random. In previous iterations of the feature, the shuffle button would pick a show or a movie with input for Netflix’s vaunted recommendation engine, Variety reported last year. In other words, pressing “shuffle” might simply tee up a video that you’d otherwise see promoted on the Netflix home screen.



Still, a shuffle option could help resolve the dreaded Friday night paralysis that sets in when it’s time to decide what to watch on Netflix. Personally, I dread the prospect of sitting in front of the Netflix interface and clicking through row after row of “Supernatural TV Shows,” “Hidden Gems for You,” and “Futuristic Sci-Fi Movies” videos, all of which look frustratingly familiar.



Doing the Netflix shuffle is also a throwback to the days of plunking in front of the TV, picking up the remote and clicking around to see what’s on. Indeed, shuffle buttons and so-called “linear TV” offerings represent a curious rejection of (or perhaps just an alternative to) the on-demand revolution that first began back in the 1980s.



In any event, look for the Shuffle Play button (or whatever it ends up being called) to appear on your favorite Netflix app in the near future.



Updated shortly after publication to add comments from Netflix execs.



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The Ettie video doorbell takes your visitor’s temperature before they cross your hearth
Tags: Entertainment, Tvs, Chargers, Services

The Ettie video doorbell takes your visitor’s temperature before they cross your hearth Desiree Feb 2·2 min read

COVID is definitely a theme during this year’s online-only CES, particularly when it comes to video doorbells. We’ve already seen video doorbells with touchless designs from Arlo and Alarm.com, and now here’s one that takes your visitor’s temperature before they’re allowed inside.



Related product Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Generation) Read TechHive's reviewSee it The Ettie comes equipped with your usual arsenal of video doorbell features, including HD resolution, two-way audio, and a mobile app that lets you see who’s standing on your doorstep. (Plott, the company behind the Ettie, has yet to reveal additional features.)



What sets the Ettie apart is its infrared temperature sensor, which lets it quickly take a visitor’s temperature. Once it’s measured a person’s temperature, the Ettie can send an alert to your phone to let you know whether it’s safe (well, relatively speaking) to let the visitor inside. There’s also a pair of LEDs—one green, and one red—on the doorbell itself, which can flash to let the person know whether they’ll be allowed entry.



[ Further reading: The best video doorbells ]Besides its ability to take someone’s temperature, the Ettie can snap the visitor’s picture and take note of when they arrived. It can also track a venue’s headcount and send an alert if you’ve reached capacity, while its visitor log could be used for contact tracing.



While the Ettie could certainly be used for a residence, it seems more targeted at businesses—say, a small storefront that’s limiting its capacity to maintain social distancing, or perhaps the waiting room of a doctor’s office. The built-in infrared temperature sensor could also be useful for a small business that can’t spare an employee to perform temperature checks at the door.



Ettie manufacturer Plott says beta units of the doorbell are slated to ship in the second quarter of 2021, with a target price of $300.



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TCL’s latest soundbar connects wirelessly to Roku TVs
Tags: Electronics, Tvs, Audio

TCL teamed up with Roku at CES 2020 to release a soundbar that eased the TV setup process with on-screen instructions and settings courtesy of the “Roku TV-Ready” program. The two companies are doing it again at this year’s CES with a new soundbar that connects wirelessly to Roku TVs.



Related product TCL 8-series 4K UHD LCD TV (65-inch class, model 65Q825) Read TechHive's review$999.00MSRP $1,999.00See iton Best Buy (Price when reviewed) Slated to arrive later this year, the Alto R1 is an all-in-one, 2.0-channel soundbar that marks TCL’s first truly wireless soundbar—well, wireless save for the power cord.



The Alto R1 manages its wireless audio trick with help from a reference design from Roku that allows for a point-to-point Wi-Fi connection between a soundbar and a Roku-powered TV, meaning there’s no need for HDMI or optical cables. Roku announced its new reference design late last week.



[ Further reading: The best soundbars ]As with the Alto 9+, the 3.1-channel Dolby Atmos soundbar that TCL unveiled a year ago at CES, the Alto R1 will be a Roku TV-Ready model, which means Roku TV users will be guided through the setup process with on-screen instructions and settings.



TCL TCL’s wireless Alto R1 soundbar is Roku TV-ready, which means it will support on-screen setup instructions and configuration settings when connected to a compatible Roku TV.



Unlike the Alto 9+, the R1 won’t support Dolby Atmos, nor will it offer virtualized 3D audio via DTS Virtual:X. Instead, the soundbar will come with straight-up Dolby Audio support, similar to many budget soundbars. Also missing will be support for Alexa and Google Assistant, although you will be able to stream audio to the Alto R1 from your phone via Bluetooth.



TCL also announced a few higher-end, HDMI-enabled soundbars for 2021, including its first models with built-in AirPlay 2, plus support for Alexa, and Google Assistant.



Due later this year, the 3.1.2-channel Alto 8e boasts a wireless subwoofer and upfiring drivers for Dolby Atmos, it will also come with AirPlay 2, Alexa, Google Assistant, and Spotify Connect support.



Meanwhile, the Alto 82i will be yet another Dolby Atmos soundbar (no word on the exact channel configuration) with AirPlay 2, Alexa, and Google Assistant support, although it will swap out the wireless subwoofer for a pair of built-in subwoofers. Rounding out TCL’s 2021 soundbar lineup will be a fourth, “premium” model with Dolby Atmos support, TCL said.



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The Challenge Double Agents Episode 8 Preview
By: Brian Batty
Tags: Reality TV, MTV, The Challenge, Sports, TV

Life is a Highway

This is the first time Leroy’s ever had the keys to the car. He’s always been happy to just ride shotgun or control the aux cord from the back seat. But actually driving the car is a whole different animal. You’re entirely responsible for getting from point A to point B. In this case point B being a championship ring. That can be a heavy crown to wear.

Kam is in a similar situation, except the problem is I don’t have quite as much sweat equity with her as I do Leroy. Vendetta’s and Final Reckoning combine to be one of the best two season starts a Challenger can really hope to have. Both War of the Worlds 1 and 2, her game was much more muted. Tremendously effective, but not quite as see-able. But both of those, specifically the sequel, she was never driving the car alone she always had a co-pilot.

Now that they have both the skulls and the political capital, Kam and Leroy are sitting on Aladdin’s Magic Carpet right now. How they navigate the roads moving forward will be so much fun to watch.

I want him to succeed in a way that supersedes joy. It’s almost as if I need it to happen to validate my own sense of self. For a full one third of my life, this is a person I’ve rooted for as passionately as I root for any of my other sports franchises. If he retires without a win I’ll walk through the rest of my life with an empty feeling. Like I did it all for nothing.

2020 has left us all empty enough Leroy, it’s time you drove yourself and the fans you’ve earned over the last decade to the promised land. I call shotgun.
TCL adds 8K models to its 6-series smart TV lineup and moves to a gap-less mini-LED backlight array
Tags: Home Tech, Tvs, Surveillance, Deals

TCL adds 8K models to its 6-series smart TV lineup and moves to a gap-less mini-LED backlight array Jeannie Feb 2·2 min read

Later this year, TCL will launch TVs featuring its third-generation mini-LED backlighting system, dubbed OD Zero. OD stands for “Optical Depth” and zero indicates the size of the gap between the backlight array and the LCD panel; in other words, there isn’t one. Eliminating this gap should reduce light bleed through adjacent zones, boosting overall contrast and improving black levels.



The company will offer this latest version of its highly granular backlighting, which employs thousands of tiny LEDs instead of hundidreds of larger ones, in its new 8K UHD 6-series TVs. Older 4K UHD 6 series models will remain in the lineup, so don’t assume that 6-series means 8K when you shop.



[ Further reading: TechHive's top picks in smart TVs ]As do other vendors, TCL claims upscaling will increase the percieved resolution of 1080p and 4K UHD content. If TCL’s AiPQ engine uses the same tricks I’ve seen from Samsung, LG, and now Sony—it will. Content in those lower resolutions really does appear to be significantly more detailed on an 8K set when properly processed.



TCL TCL’s 4-series smart TVs will be among the lowest-priced 85-inch TVs on the market.



TCL also plans to go big this year with it 85-inch XL-series TVs. The company has added an 85-inch model to the 4 series (the $1,599, Roku-based 85R435) for the early spring, followed by a quantum dot, Roku-based 85R745 (pricing to be announced), and eventually an 85-inch mini-LED, wide color gamut 8K UHD model.



The 85R745—and we’re assuming the 8K UHD variant—will include Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, as well as variable refresh rate and 120Hz HDMI input support for game-play.



This article was edited several hours after posting to correct "Optical Distance" to "Optical Depth."



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This glorious 65-inch 4K Roku TV is a jaw-dropping $400 today
Tags: Consumer, Consumer Electronics, Tvs, Chromecast

The Super Bowl is coming, and if you plan to watch the big game you're going to need a bigger screen. Best Buy has you covered today with a Westinghouse 65-inch 4K Roku smart TV for a measly $400Remove non-product link—$200 off the MSRP and one of the best prices you'll ever see.



The TV itself features 4K resolution, as well as HDR 10. We wouldn't call that true HDR as this TV doesn't get quite bright enough to qualify, but you'll certainly notice the improved picture over similarly sized sets without it. With Roku on board, you have access to all your favorite streaming services including Apple TV, HBO, Hulu, Netflix, Starz, and more. This TV also works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control, as well as integrating with other smart home devices.



For ports, it has three HDMI one of which has HDCP 2.2, as well as one USB 2.0 for thumb drives and other storage devices. It's also packing one digital optical audio out and analog audio out. For connectivity, you get Wi-Fi and Ethernet, but no Bluetooth.



Add it all up and you've got one heck of a bargain for just $400. So go grab one and get read to watch the big game in style.



[Today's deal: Westinghouse 65-inch 4K Roku smart TV for $400 at Best BuyRemove non-product link]



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The Future of TV Advertising. What streaming TV gets wrong.
By: Chad Underwood
Tags: Marketing, Streaming, Technology, Media, TV

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

TV as you know it will change in a big way. TV providers right now aren’t targeting their consumers the right way.

Same Ole Same

Streaming services today still use the same methods over-the-air/cable broadcasts used for advertising. They’re putting their offers in front of general audiences. In turn, their marketing is ignored.

We’ve all been watching TV and an advertisement comes on. It’s for a product you’ll never buy. Your attention leaves the screen in an instant. Here are some examples that might sound familiar. You’re a man and you have no use for feminine products. Or as a woman and you don’t need aftershave.

The Best Way to Do It

The best marketing is targeted. Companies like Google and Facebook rake in money because they cornered the market. They get you in front of the right offers. They know what you want and how you want it.

Social platforms and search engines track your use. This helps them understand your intentions. In turn, algorithms are used to serve the content they know you’ll love. They’re able to take in more advertising dollars because of this.

Moving Forward

Streaming services could put the same technology social platforms and search engines use to work for them. This would help to increase revenues. Then they’d be able to market based on race, sexual orientation, gender, location, and age.

It’s shocking streaming services haven’t tapped into targeted advertising more. They’re sitting on a gold mine and I’m not sure they realize it yet. Maybe this will happen once the platforms become more mature.

The rise of streaming services will make future TV more like social media platforms. Serving your recommended list and advertising based on algorithms.

More about the author.

Chad writes a weekly newsletter called Technically Underwood about community building. You can find out more at chadunderwood.com.
The Sopranos episode review — 5.6 — Sentimental Education
By: Patrick J Mullen
Tags: Drama, Tv Reviews, 2000s, TV, The Sopranos

Original air date: April 11, 2004

Director: Peter Bogdanovich

Writer: Matthew Weiner

Rating: 9/10

“Sentimental Education” is one of the best Carmela episodes to date. Her relationship with AJ’s guidance counselor, Robert Wegler (David Strathairn), turns sexual, and she’s dealing with conflicting emotions. She feels guilt, but she also really enjoys this.

When she goes to her priest, he reminds her of the vow she took when she married Tony, but there also seems to be a touch of jealousy there, as we all remember he was the guy that almost fucked her in “College.”

Wegler’s also conflicted about their relationship, as he finds himself telling a teacher to give AJ a higher grade after Carmela says she’s not in the mood to have sex because she’s worried about her son.

He also accuses Carmela of manipulating him eventually, which seems a bit unfair.

Equally interesting if what Steve Buscemi’s up to. And I guess I’m going to keep referring to him by the actor’s name, since there are too many goddamn Tonys here.

He’s studying hard to be certified as a massage therapist, and his Korean boss at the laundry has agreed to help him start a business if he does pass, since he could help get his daughter a job, too.

It doesn’t go qutie as planned, and with Buscemi acting his ass off, it’s all pretty great.
Twin Peaks episode review — 2.11 — Episode 18/Masked Ball
By: Patrick J Mullen
Tags: Drama, Television, 1990s, Twin Peaks, TV

Original air date: December 15, 1990

Director: Duwayne Dunham

Writer: Barry Pullman

Rating: 5/10

Betty Briggs, Garland’s wife, seems unconcerned over her husband’s disappearance. It is apparent, however, that something strange is going on in those woods.

Cooper argues to internal affairs that he’s done nothing wrong, and that he’s been framed for apparently missing drugs. Dennis Bryson (David Duchovny), now Denise, who’s working for the DEA, agrees that it’s probably true, but admits that it will be difficult to prove.

James arrives at a bar outside of town and meets a woman, and who the hell cares, this plot is completely pointless.

Nadine continues to display her superhuman strength at school in an attempt to flirt with Mike, and is recruited to joining the wrestling team.

Josie finally has a moment of honesty with Sheriff Truman, as she admits she worked for a man in Hong Kong named Thomas Eckhardt, and was in deep shit, before marrying into the Packard family.

The only pointless subplot here that I ended up enjoying surprisingly was the one with Andy and Dick. Dick has volunteered to be a big brother or whatever for some brat in order to impress Lucy, and when he’s disappointed that he can’t show off in front of her, Andy steps in and helps. I say it’s surprising because these are two characters who don’t often work for me.

The episode culminates in Dougie Milford’s wedding with his fifth or sixth bride, a teenager, Lana Budding Milford (Robyn Lively).

Oh, and Andrew Packard (Dan O’Herlihy, Halloween III: Season of the Witch) shows up alive. Again, who really cares?

It’s clear the series has nowhere to go. There’s a little bit with Cooper’s old partner, Windom Earle, but no real indication that he’ll be the primary focus of the rest of the season. This episode is a bore.
Friday the 13th: The Series episode review — 1.21 — Double Exposure
By: Patrick J Mullen
Tags: Friday The 13th, Horror, Supernatural, 1980s, TV

Original air date: May 21, 1988

Director: Neill Fearnley

Writer: Durnford King

Rating: 7/10

This is my favourite episode so far. It’s weird, looks great visually, and has some blood, though not until the end. There’s a machete killer on the loose, having killed about eight or nine people so far, and the story’s being closely monitored by TV reporter Winston Knight (Gary Frank), who’s actually behind the whole thing, but in a very strange way.

Eventually, Ryan, who had just ended his date with his new girlfriend, sees someone being killed, and he tries to intervene. Though we don’t see the killer’s face, he claims it looks exactly like Winston Knight. But of course Knight has a perfect alibi, since he was on television at the time.

Even Micki kind of doubts Ryan this time around, so that’s a bit new. Eventually Jack does some research on doubles as the three figure out that Winston has used a curse camera to create one. The episode does a pretty good job of explaining what’s going on in a fairly short period of time.

It should probably come as no surprise that Ryan’s girlfriend is killed, but she’s pretty much the one who solves the crime, so good for her. Jack gets captured, and Winston creates a double to deceive the other two after Ryan comes away with the negative of him (which is necessary for the double).

A lot going on here. It’s a very fun episode, and like I said, ti is my favourite so far. Good stuff, even if Micki has nothing really to do.
What Makes WandaVision and Doctor Who so Brilliant
By: Evan Jones
Tags: Doctor Who, Film, Marvel, TV Shows, TV

Easily one of the best new shows in years, “WandaVision” accomplishes the impossible: it pulls us back in just when we thought we were out.

This may not come as a surprise to many but I am in fact talking about Doctor Who. A show that was well ahead of its time, first aired in 1963 follows the adventures of a lone surviving time lord as he fights evil across all of time and space. Easily one of the longest lasting show ever, with new episodes and seasons being added year after year, its longevity is a testament to its fandom and its story that has created a universe of its own.

History lessons and reviews aside, the reason that makes the two shows so amazing is its ability to leave the audience dumbstruck after watching it. But, that is not the only reason because in all fairness there are other amazing shows also that do the same. I am talking about the genius that has gone behind in making it.

Marvel, as the world knows has a reputation for being the most interconnected and follows a beautifully developing story arc. But, they are also most notorious for hiding clues of their following installments in their movies and shows. I believe that this is important to note because no other Marvel show is more brimming with clues and call backs than WandaVision which is an absolute treat for all eagle eyed Marvel fans out there, and this is part of the reason why it is so good. Setting the stage for the upcoming Spiderman 3 and Doctor Strange 2 while tying up with Captain Marvel, the X Men and hopefully the Fantastic Four, this is one show that must not be missed for prospective film watching experience’s sake.

Howard the Duck easter egg from Avengers Endgame. Courtesy WhatCulture

Doctor Who on the other hand while may not have a comic backing, has a history that has been building for the past sixty years. This means that the fans have a lot, and I mean a lot to catch up on. It is because of this established history, and the talent of the creators of the show that bringing back old foes and characters does not seem repetitive, but rather a surprise visit from an old friend.

I have listed below some of the most important and noticeable commonalities between the two shows that set them apart:
Words on Photography from Thailand
By: Nick Sparks
Tags: Travel, Photojournalism, Bangkok, Thailand, Photography

Bangkok, Thailand

A huge swath of colorfully-dressed commuters filled my vision, providing a kaleidoscopic terrain I was eager to study. Sunlight filtered through the slatted ceiling to anoint all it touched in euphoric shimmers of gold, and with the shade providing a dramatic counter to the riveting highlights, a beautiful texture was born. There was no need for ambitious angles or intricate camera settings. The space did the work for me. All I needed to do was point and shoot.

Spaces like the rail station — so rich in people, texture, and light — are rarities, but if you’re patient, you can find that kind of imagery anywhere. Walking around Bangkok, I always keep my eye out for interesting pockets of light. When I find one I like, I sit tight and wait for the right subject to cross through it.

I found one of these pockets a few days ago in the form of a bright orange wall. The color reflected off the building across the street and radiated a warm molten light. I knew that a setting sun would only amplify the spectacle, so I waited until sunset and watched the rays bounce off the wall and turn the warm glow into a dazzling tapestry of color and depth. Soon I saw two people walking toward each other from opposite ends of the block. I split the frame in half with a street pole and captured the moment they walked midway into frame.

One of my favorite photographers, Alex Webb, wrote: “One percent of everything you take is going to be special.” Those words motivate me to stay vigilant and shoot as much as possible. To achieve that one percent, I need to photograph for hours on end — like I did at the bright orange wall. That took 100 shots to get right.

https://www.nicksparksweddings.com
Cash or credit card which is better to use when traveling abroad?
By: Sawitree Monpadungkij
Tags: Credit Cards, Best Credit Card, Thailand, Foreign Currency, Banking

Traveling abroad could be a fun experience. However, it could be just as scary for the inexperienced travelers. You would need to be careful about the rules of the country, their customs, traditions, and especially about your safety and finances in an alien country.

When it comes to finances, travelers are often concerned about whether to use Plastic Money or Cash. If you too are one of them, here is a guide to help you choose better.

Cash

Pros:

Cash is convenient to use as it is accepted everywhere. With cash usage, you probably would pay less for exchange and conversion fees. Moreover, you need not pay any transaction fees while using cash for your payments.

Cons:

Using cash while traveling can be quite risky. It can be stolen or lost. Therefore, in a different country, if you rely only on cash for your expenses, you could be in trouble.

Moreover, it is difficult and inconvenient to carry cash everywhere you go. Further, you would have to look for ATMs and banks to withdraw, and exchange currency whenever required.

Credit card

Pros:

They are easy and convenient to carry and use.

You need not worry about its theft or loss as you can replace it through your bank.

You can make payments even if you run out of cash.

MasterCard and Visa are accepted worldwide

You can withdraw cash through credit cards.

In case of wrong or fraudulent activity through your card, you can send a request for price protection and get a refund.

You can earn and redeem your reward points while traveling abroad in branded and multinational stores.

Credit cards can be the most affordable means of payments if you take a credit card with no foreign transaction fees.

Cons:

You might face trouble in making payments if your card is not accepted abroad. When applying for a credit card look for institutions that have been lending for a long time and have a reputation in the industry.

You will need to notify your bank when you travel abroad unless you opt for a foreign service credit card.

You might have to pay interest on the unpaid amount on credit card depending on the bank.

Conclusion

Whether you should use a credit card or cash depends on many factors. Which country you are traveling to and if your credit card would be accepted there? What is the duration of your stay? It is because if you are going for a short period, you might as well use cash for transactions. However, if you plan to stay abroad for a longer time, it would be better to use a credit card for convenience and safety. You might have to look for ATMs for withdrawing cash if you run out of money. Therefore for a more extended stay, it is better to use credit cards. Moreover, it is best to use credit cards if you are traveling to multiple countries, as you will need to exchange your currency to make payments.
One of the Tastiest Thai food in Dubai | Thai Restaurant Dubai
By: Webcastle Media
Tags: Thai Food In Dubai, Thai Cuisine, Thai Food, Thailand

Are you looking for Tastiest Thai food in Dubai

Tuk Tuk Thai Restaurant serves the best Thai dishes from Thailand for you in Dubai. Our dishes are made with authentic Thai ingredients that are flown from Bangkok. We take pride in bringing you the best dishes from all around Thailand, made with the highest quality ingredients sprinkled with a little love. Thai cuisine is one of the most intricate yet healthiest in the world. In order to keep the nutrients as well as deliciousness, we have experienced chefs who ensure that the food tastes the best every time. Tuk Tuk Thai offers high-quality service at a reasonable price. We have a diverse menu including the most popular and best Thai cuisine. We are one of the best Thai restaurants in Dubai which offer a contemporary experience of traditional Thai cuisine among restaurants in Mirdif Uptown.

All our products are made per individual order and never previously ready. We strive constantly to exceed your expectations. Our menu includes starters, soup, salads, main courses rice and noodles, desserts and drinks. As per customer feedback, we have one of the best Thai food in or out of Thailand and we would like to invite you to our restaurant to try our signature Pad-Thai or simply order a takeaway Tom Yum or a Thai Green Curry. Now you can order food from our restaurant online. Enjoy our service of delicious Thai food delivery in Dubai. We hope you enjoy our food as we do. Tuk Thai never lets you down by serving the authentic Thai every time. Visit our second restaurant in Sustainable City.
Essentials you need to know about Import Documentary Collections
By: Merchant Trade Guarantee Corporation Company Ltd.
Tags: Trading, Thailand, Documentary Collections, Finance, Financial Services

If you are accustomed with the international trading world, you might come across the term import documentary collection several times. If you are in Thailand or any other place and want to enjoy the best documentary collection service, getting in touch with a reputed Non Banking Financial company will help. There are several service providers offering Import Documentary Collections in Thailand. Before anyone of them, approaching them, let’s know about it precisely.

What is import documentary collection?

It is a process where exporter’s bank collects amounts from the imported banks exchanging documents. In this trade transaction, exporters allow their financial institution to act as an agent for payment of shipped goods to the importers. It can be categorized into two parts. Documents against payment (D/P) and Documentsagainst acceptance. The former one needs to pay the amount at the draft sight. Whereas the next one needs the importer to make payment on the particular future date.

After mutual understanding and completing the payment, the exporters deliver the goods to the location where the merchandise will be exported from. After completing this process,the documents are prepared and sent to the financial institution. In the next stage, the exporter’s institution forwards the document to the importer’s bank. Then importer clears payment and receives document from them.

If you want to complete this process in a flawless manner, it is always better to contact a trustworthy NBFC. Want to know why. Here are the answers.

Reasons to contact a NBFC for import documentary collection

First and foremost, NBFC s accept all types of currency all over the world. Hence, you can enjoy an easy and hassle-free transaction. Another fact by that a NBFCcan help is the always remain updated about the dealing process. Generally, when the document is reached to the exporter’s bank, they send an electrical message.

An eminent NBFC you can contact

Feel free to contact Merchant Trade Guarantee Corporation Company Limited, if interested about a hassle-free documentary collection procedure. They are experienced in Import Documentary Collections in Thailand. Click on merchanttradecorp.com to know more. Other articles posted online will help you to know more in this regard.
The Single Greatest Lesson I Learned After Traveling Six Countries Over Four Years
By: Tyler Garrison
Tags: Travel, Adventure, Culture, Thailand, Inner Growth

The Single Greatest Lesson I Learned After Traveling Six Countries Over Four Years Tyler Garrison Jan 22·2 min read

If your mind is made up about the way things ought to be, if bagels ought to be crispy on the outside and chewy in the middle, if buffalo sauce ought to have the perfect amount of tang, if pizza never ought to have squid as a topping, then a trip to Asia will rock your world to the core. The whole trip you’ll be thinking “They oughta do it the way we do it back home. We do it right. We do it better.”

These sorts of ‘oughta’ ran through my mind constantly in Thailand. “The busses oughta be on time.” “These noodles oughta be less slimy.” “They oughta get all these food vendors off the sidewalk so I can walk through. It’s called a sideWALK.”

It wasn’t until month nine, when I was complaining to my Thai girlfriend about the lack of public parks, comparing her second world town to the big, green public spaces of my American utopia, when she said something that I’ve carried with me on every adventure I’ve had since.

“Why don’t you go back to America then?” She said.

“Huh?”

“If you just want everything to be like your home, then what’s the point of traveling. You obviously don’t care about discovering anything new.”

I thought I understood her point and tried to put out the fire.

“O.k., o.k. you’re right. I suppose I do need to be a little more tolerant of cultural differences.”

“NO!” She stood up from the dinner table. “I don’t want you to TOLERATE anything! To tolerate means you’re still not enjoying. Stop tolerating. Learn to LOVE the differences in my culture. EMBRACE my culture. There’s no right or wrong, no better or worse. It’s just DIFFERENT. They’re called cultural DIFFERENCES! Don’t you get that?”

The tear running down her cheek told me how insensitive and backwards my attitude had been. Now, I relish the things that could never exist in America. I appreciate the moments I taste something my tastebuds have never encountered, when I hear music that I don’t understand. You don’t need to understand if you embrace instead of tolerate. That’s what makes it an adventure.

TGS
9 Rising Star Thai Photographers to Follow in 2021
By: Bryce Watanasoponwong
Tags: Rising Star, Thailand, Thai, 2021, Photographer

Courtesy of Naraphat Sakarthornsap

Originally published at https://www.bryce-art.com.

Get inspired with a roundup of impressive Thai photographers that need to be on your radar in 2021. Making incredible waves with their work in Thailand and worldwide, these talented photographers are bringing exceptional pieces to their chosen areas of street photography, documentary work, or fine art. The following group of ambitious photographers excludes wild passion and fierce curiosity that will surely make an impact in the industry and expand the view for so many.

Charit Pusiri

( Instagram | Facebook | www )

Courtesy of Charit Pusiri

Best known for his highly staged cinematic photographs, Charit Pusiri captures everyday occurrences and social issues through the eyes of his lens. With a degree from Savannah College of Art and Design and a Master of Art in Digital Photography, Pusiri views photography not as a tool just to capture moments or create “beautiful” images, but more of a form of storytelling.
EU Normative Power in Ocean Governance: The Case of Thailand’s Fisheries
By: Mario Marset
Tags: European Union, Policy, Thailand, Export, Power

The European Union has placed themselves in the center field for developing ‘ethical’ ocean governance. The EU has pushed to take such a central role; something not foreign to the power the Union has on dictating what should be perceived as normal.

One of their initiatives in the last decade has been valuing the environment such as regulating ‘ethical’ fishing. One country that was affected was Thailand and their fish sector. After the European Commission threatened Thailand with a ‘yellow card’ this prompted fast changes to their fishing practices. From 2015 to 2018, Thailand was able to transition from a ‘yellow card’ status to a ‘green’ card status in terms of their fisheries.

Source: EUObserver

Why did Thailand listen to the Commission? This sports-like card system of yellow card or green card is the EC’s way of threatening countries by labeling them as non-cooperating third countries.

Why would a third country such as Thailand care what standards the EU likes? The EU member nations are big importers from Thai fisheries and being closed of to the Union market’s affects the relationships Thailand has with other nations the are in business exporting the goods. This is how the third countries, out of economic and trade necessity, find themselves obeying to the powers of the EU.

Why does it matter that another country obeyed EU policy? The EU, whether by creating ethical policy or not, has a lot of power to influence other nations and has known to export its norms outside their borders. As Professor Cheeppensook put it, “the ability to generate norms has always been a distinctive feature of the European Union’s policies towards its external parties and the world at large” (672). Where this raises concerns is that the EU champions standards of appropriateness in policy abroad. Who is the EU to dictate what is appropriate across the globe?

Creating what is largely perceived as normal is what EU policy has exported. The reality is that Europe’s normative power is a practice of European identity construction. Without making moral judgments, it is never a sane task to allow any entity to dictate norm forming especially when it becomes their identity. This is no exception to the EU.
It’s Not that Easy: The Changes Need to Undergo Thorough Approval
By: The Asian Affairs
Tags: Bill, Thailand

A parliamentary board of trustees screening the submission bill will choose tomorrow whether to affirm changes made to it by the Council of State, the public authority’s lawful warning body. In view of this, Congressperson Surachai Liangboonlertchai, the panel administrator, said on Tuesday that individuals had met agents of the committee to talk about the progressions the last needed to make to Sections 10 and 11 of the bill.

The segment 10 explains insights about the submission cycle for sanction changes, while Section 11 arrangements with choices on different issues.

Also, The submission charge, which is presently at the subsequent understanding stage, may not come around.

That is on the grounds that it is at risk for being announced illegal, since the constitution specifies that solitary the bureau can start a submission. The changes, set forth by the resistance, approve parliament and the general population to start a sign-up crusade requiring a choice to be held. A few representatives demand what is being requested goes past the constraints of the sacred system.

https://www.theasianaffairs.com/its-not-that-easy-the-changes-need-to-undergo-thorough-approval/
Why should you not use Facebook as your real estate agent website?
By: Bjørn Hellesylt
Tags: Webdesing, Thailand, Pattaya, Real Estate, Real Estate Websites

I see a lot of real estate agents, especially small agents and freelancers that only use Facebook as their real estate listings website. Sure, you reach a lot of people that way, but do you reach the right customer at the right time for that particular property you list today? Most likely not.

So what is so bad about using Facebook as your real estate listings website?

Have you tried to find a property you saw last week on the Facebook page? The listing gets further down on the list every time you add a new property, so eventually going to be hard to find. Keep in mind that a property usually takes months or even years to sell, so then it will be almost impossible to find. Then, to get the property visible again, you have to do all the job again and re-post the listing.

Please keep in mind that if you are targeting customers in China, Facebook is pretty much completely blocked. Read more in this article about Facebook in China.

How can you get the most out of your Facebook page when listing your properties?

But using Facebook is, of course, a good thing. You get great exposure to lots of potential customers, but make sure you use it as a marketing tool and not your main property listing site.

You really should get yourself a good real estate website, and here is why:

Customers can easily search or browse through your properties based on location, price type of property and so on.

The website will be available everywhere, even in China.

You have a much better overview of your property listings.

What should you expect from your website provider and their system?

That they are professional and can help you with any issue you might have when you need it.

That they are available and have a team that can help you. I know there are many clever freelancers out there, but having a team in an office that is actually available and can help you even if one of the staff is sick or on holiday is important.

That the website is always up to date with the latest technology.

That your data is backed up at all times.

That you can get changes done if your requirement changes. Keep in mind that if you use a WordPress website with a plugin, then the website company you use most likely did not develop this plugin and has no control over it. This means they cannot change it to meet your new requirements.

That you will never have to get a new website. Moving content from one website to a new website is a big job, so make sure your next website never will get outdated in the future. exPub.net is such a system that will never expire.

Conclusion

Use Facebook for what it is good at, but do not rely on it as your real estate listing website. You need a professional solution that can help you manage your real estate website. Keep in mind that you are the professional related to selling real estate, the website company is the professional in developing and managing the website.

Contact Hosting-Group, the real estate website specialist that can help you with your next real estate website.