The same day as the protest in Poipet, Thai police closed the pier where boats carry gamblers across the Mekong to the Paradise Resort.

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And though landmarks such as the central market clock tower may help you orientate yourself somewhat, chances are a map of your exact wanderings after a day out at Chatuchak would resemble most closely a plate of pad thai noodles.

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Thai stocks have been on a roll this year, along with the Thai currency which hit a five-year high on the day that I met the musician at a dinner party.

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"I try not to remember all the details, " said Thai hotel manager Wisut Kasayapanand, who still has painful memories of that fateful day.

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ATHENS, Greece -- Udomporn Polsak became the first Thai woman to strike Olympic gold as Asian athletes enjoyed another medal-laden day at the Games.

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Unfortunately, Thip Samai was closed that day, so we headed to his restaurant instead and began with a plate of his pad Thai.

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