Latest news with #Wat
Bangkok Post
15-07-2025
- Bangkok Post
Monks' titles rescinded, 'Golf' cuffed
His Majesty the King has issued a royal command to revoke the royal appointments and ecclesiastical titles previously conferred upon a total of 81 monks, in light of recent reports of monastic misconduct that have deeply affected public sentiment. The revocation, published in the Royal Gazette on Tuesday, took effect on Monday. It concerns four monks who had been elevated to higher ranks and 77 others who were granted certificates of ecclesiastical titles under two Royal Decrees dated June 22. The appointments were originally made in commemoration of His Majesty's upcoming birthday anniversary on July 28. However, in the royal statement issued on Tuesday, His Majesty expressed concern over reports detailing inappropriate conduct by certain monks and senior ecclesiastical figures in violation of the Vinaya, or Buddhist monastic code. Such behaviour, it was noted, has caused considerable emotional and spiritual distress to the Buddhist faithful. Accordingly, His Majesty has ordered the revocation of both royal decrees concerning the monastic appointments and ecclesiastical title grants. On Tuesday, a woman widely known as "Sika Golf", a central figure in an expanding scandal involving senior monks across Thailand, was apprehended over her link to a transaction of 380,000 baht from Wat Chujit Dhammaram's account in Ayutthaya. This relates to financial transactions involving the temple's former abbot, Phra Theppatcharaporn, and claims of temple funds being misused and embezzled.
National Geographic
03-07-2025
- Sport
- National Geographic
Who decides to run a marathon in their 70s? These legends
Photographs by Jake Chessum Science tells us that a marathon runner's peak performance years are between ages 25 and 35. But that doesn't mean they're your best years. Take it from a dozen awe-inspiring runners, all 70 and over, who we caught up with after they crossed the finish line (still flush with joy!) of this year's Boston Marathon. Some have been running for decades; others took it up later in life. All are in elite company: Runners over 65 made up fewer than 3 percent of all marathon participants in 2023, according to the most recent numbers from the nonprofit group Running USA. And runners over 75? Not quite .3 percent. So what keeps some of the world's most inspiring amateur athletes committed after a whole lot of years, miles, and worn-out trainers? Good health, sure. But also clarity and camaraderie, family and tradition, and maybe the promise of post-race beer and saki. The teenager who thought he'd wow the ladies Wat, age 17, photographed for his 1970 high school yearbook at Kalani High in Honolulu. John Wat, 72 Home: Honolulu, Hawaii First Marathon: 1977, in Honolulu Early Motivation: 'I started running when I was 14 or 15, and like most guys that age, I thought I would impress some girls.' Vocation: Retired teacher and coach. 'I was always a better coach than a competitive runner. Now when I run on the road, I see a lot of my former athletes. That kind of keeps me going.' Favorite Recovery Treat: 'I'm still a coach, so I'm always thinking about what you're supposed to do. But sometimes a big, greasy cheeseburger or pizza is what really hits the spot.' Sue Chappell, 70 Home: Christchurch, New Zealand First Marathon: 2002, in Honolulu, Hawaii Bad Habit: Getting lost. 'I just don't pay attention. I like to look around. It's why I love running. I'm nosy.' On New Perspectives: 'It certainly has helped my self-confidence. It's given me the knowledge that I can age healthily. I used to hate the gym with a passion. Now I love it.' Best Motivation: Running with friends. 'I'm the oldest in our group. They say, 'You have to keep running because as long as you're running, we feel like we need to keep going.'' The Canadian who slugs a post-finish Pepsi Fagan finishing the Boston Marathon on April 17, 2000. Photograph by MarathonFoto Francis Fagan, 75 Home: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada First Marathon: 1992, on PEI Impetus for Running: Recovery from a broken leg. 'I was 42 and getting too old for other sports. Running seemed fairly easy by comparison.' Post-Race Refuel: Pepsi, followed by a beer or two. 'The sugars always help. It's the good stuff.' Marathons Completed: 152. 'I keep all my medals in tin Cadbury cans. I'm running out of cans and places to keep them.' Long-Term Goal: Running the Boston Marathon at a hundred. 'I only have 25 years to go. I just hope I'm lucid and not drooling then.' The octogenarian only slightly slowing down Frank Bright, 82 Home: Shreveport, Louisiana First Marathon: 1978, in Crowley, Louisiana On Camaraderie: 'If there's somebody your age who's been running marathons, you know what they've been through. And they're probably the kind of folks you'd like to know better.' Training Adjustments: 'I don't do speed work anymore. I worry about not knowing where the envelope is and getting injured.' On Deriving Joy: 'It's more in the reflecting on it and not so much while you're doing it. A mystic experience of running? I haven't had that. There's the ego, having people say, 'Hey, attaboy.' That may be more of it than I want to admit.' The very deep thinker Freedman running the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C., on October 28, 2001. Photograph by MarathonFoto Barbara Freedman, 73 Home: Montréal, Quebec First Marathon: 1999, in New York City Toughest Challenge: Life-run balance. 'There are so many ways life gets in the way, and it can break your heart.' Lessons Learned: 'Whenever I go out for a long run and bring a couple of problems with me, I come back with not just one solution, but three or four. When I run, I think. And when I come back, I have ideas.' Biggest Motivation: 'Knowing there will be an end one day. There's not a lot of time left for me. I'm not doom and gloom—it's just knowing life is finite. But I'll have all these memories, and I'll know what I did. It's just the stopping that's going to be hard.' The dad who raised his coach Jose Alfaro, 75 Home: New York, New York First Marathon: 2022, in New York City Coach and Inspiration: His son, Amilcar Alfaro-Martell. 'It's something we can share together. It's been some of the most special times in our lives, and we really cherish it.' Running Playlist: 'I listen to a lot of salsa music, Puerto Rican music: Marc Anthony, La India. Got to shout out Bad Bunny as well.' Running Philosophy: 'All faces, all paces. I'm really inspired by the number of immigrants who come out together under the umbrella of running. Their ability to overcome incredible difficulty builds my resilience.' Havkins running the Capital City Marathon in Olympia, Washington, in July 1984. Photograph by MarathonFoto Sabina Havkins, 70 Home: Seattle, Washington First Marathon: 1977, in Keystone, Colorado Most Memorable Race: Capital City Marathon, in Olympia, Washington, 1984. 'We ran the same course as the first women's Olympic marathon trials, a couple of months before. And that whole aura, of the first time women were allowed to run that distance, that was just so inspiring.' Motivational Tip: Sign up for races. 'Having a goal puts something on the calendar and helps with accountability and discipline.' On Identity: 'Running is part of my persona. It's not who I am, but it's how I experience the world, experience the outdoors, find oneness with spirit.' The Joburger who started with an ultra in his 60s Boissie Mbha, 72 Home: Johannesburg, South Africa First Marathon: 2015, at Comrades (~90K), in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa Training Mantra: Quality of miles over quantity. 'My knees are also 72 years old, so I do shorter distances. Increasing my rate of rest is very important—I make sure I get enough sleep. I know it works because I can still beat some of the youngsters.' On Late Starts: 'It's never too late to start a new activity. It keeps your mind sharp.' Future Plans: No more than four marathons a year. 'For as long as my knees allow me.' The very consistent medal collector Taylor's first marathon, the Detroit International Marathon, on October 22, 1978. Photograph courtesy of Jim Taylor Jim Taylor, 78 Home: Easton, Maryland First Marathon: 1978, in Detroit, Michigan Training Mantra: Steadiness. 'I'm very consistent in my diet. I listen to how I'm feeling and pay attention to my body and do a lot of things in moderation.' Prized Possession: Boston Marathon medals. 'Running Boston is the 4th of July, Christmas, and a pilgrimage to Mecca all rolled into one. Those medals are as important to me as all of my degrees.' On Gratitude: 'I'm feeling very blessed at this stage of life. My wife is a former marathoner and my best friend. Life is great.' The late bloomer Hisako Oguma, 75 Home: Setagaya, Japan First Marathon: 2014, in Nagoya, Japan Started Running: At 60. 'After retirement, I wanted to have some fun and try something new. I have always loved being in nature and the experience of the wind racing past me.' Favorite Soundtrack: Ambient sound. 'In Japan, my generation does not like putting things in our ears. Besides, if you play music, you cannot hear the sound of nature and spectators cheering.' Training Philosophy: 'It's good to start working slowly. And running or walking with friends always helps.' On Aging Well: 'The best thing to do for longevity is to eat well, sleep well, and drink lots of saki with friends.' The New Englander who won't change her shirt Linda Parrish finishing the Boston Marathon on April 20, 1992. Photograph by MarathonFoto Linda Parrish, 72 Home: Albany, New Hampshire First Marathon: 1988, in Newport, Rhode Island On Motivation: 'I was a single mom of three kids, so it became really important that I had this outlet. I wanted them to have something they would be proud of me for.' Training Mantra: Patience. 'I still do the sort of training I did for years, but at a much slower rate, where it used to be a short part of my day but now it becomes a whole afternoon.' Prized Possession: A singlet from her local club, the White Mountain Milers. 'I've been wearing it for 36 years. It looks like it's gone through a war.' On Hindsight: 'When I think back to my 20s, if you'd have told me I'd still be running at 72, I just can't imagine I would have ever believed that.' Robin Schiller, 72 Home: Santa Rosa, California First Marathon: 2006, in Steamboat, Colorado Keeps Running Because: 'Preparation and training offer clear and immediate results. It feels so manageable when so much in your life doesn't.' Prized Possession: Medal from the 2013 Boston Marathon, when bombs killed two and injured more than 260. 'I had planned for that to be my last marathon. But all of us there instantly decided we had to come back. It's an outpouring of good spirit like you will not see anywhere else.' On Aging Actively: 'As long as I can do this, I feel like I owe it to myself and the universe to do it. Running is a blessing.'
Hindustan Times
03-07-2025
- Hindustan Times
Budget travel in Asia: 5 Asian getaways just a few hours away for Indian travellers with estimated cost, top attractions
Whether you're a seasoned vacationer or a first-timer, travelling on a budget is not only great for your wallet, but being a little thrifty may actually lead you to places you wouldn't explore otherwise. But travelling on a budget doesn't always mean you have to give up comfort or delicious meals. Also read | Is $15K enough for 9 to 11 months in Latin America? Redditors share budget travel tips for man who wants to be 'frugal' Plan ahead to make the most of your budget travel adventure in Asia. (Freepik) If you are looking to make your budget travel dreams a reality, in an interview with HT Lifestyle, Karan Agarwal, director, Cox and Kings, explained why Asia could be a great choice. He said Asia offers a buffet of options within easy reach, from a breezy beach break to a temple trail or a big-city shopping fix. He said, 'There's a new kind of holiday Indian travellers are loving right now: short-haul international escapes that don't demand too many leaves, long-haul flights, or five months of planning. These trips fit neatly into a long weekend or an impulsive 'let's just go' plan. Think culturally rich, affordable, less than six hours away by flight, and packed with experiences.' According to him, here are five short-haul destinations that are perfect for Indians looking to recharge without breaking the bank or burning too much time off work (these estimates can vary depending on the specific location, time of year, and personal spending habits): Wat Arun Temple, also known as the Temple of Dawn, is a stunning cultural gem in Bangkok, Thailand. (Freepik) 1. Thailand (Bangkok, Pattaya and beyond) Karan said, 'Thailand continues to be a go-to for Indian travellers, and it's not just about budget-friendliness. Bangkok offers a mix of vibrant street markets, Thai massages, and temples, while Pattaya adds a beachy twist to your trip. Floating markets, coral island day trips, and evening cruises make for an easy blend of sightseeing and downtime. The food scene, whether you're sampling street food or looking for Indian restaurants, is also a big plus.' ⦿ Flight Time: 4 hours (approx.) ⦿ Top Experiences: Grand Palace, floating markets, Safari World, Marine Park, Alcazar show, and the coral island in Pattaya ⦿ Budget for 4D/3N: Starting from ₹ 35,000– ₹ 55,000 (flights + hotels) 2. Bali, Indonesia 'Bali has become synonymous with laid-back luxury. Ideal for couples, honeymooners, or anyone needing a proper pause, Bali's energy is both calming and adventurous. Ubud is perfect for art, yoga, and monkey forests, while Seminyak and Uluwatu serve up surf, sunset, and seafood. Water sports in Tanjung Benoa and temple-hopping tours (like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu) make it more than just a beach holiday,' he added. ⦿ Flight Time: 6 hours (with one stop) ⦿ Top Experiences: Water temples, Ubud rice terraces, beach clubs, Balinese massage ⦿ Budget for 5D/4N: Starting from ₹ 55,000– ₹ 70,000 The Burj Khalifa is a skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and it's a marvel of modern engineering and architecture. (Freepik) 3. Dubai, UAE According to Karan, 'Dubai is the perfect example of a short trip that feels larger than life. Great for family vacations or first-time international travellers, it combines sightseeing with sheer spectacle. From climbing the Burj Khalifa to taking a desert safari, and hopping across giant malls to old souks, Dubai offers a taste of tradition and over-the-top modernity all in one trip. Bonus: vegetarian Indian food is easy to find.' ⦿ Flight Time: 3.5 hours (approx.) ⦿ Top Experiences: Dubai Frame, Museum of the Future, desert safari, Burj Khalifa, Dhow cruise dinner, Miracle Garden and Ferrari World Day Excursion ⦿ Budget for 4D/3N: Starting from ₹ 50,000– ₹ 80,000 4. Sri Lanka (Colombo, Galle, and Tea Country) 'Sri Lanka is the quiet charmer on this list. Just a short hop away, it offers a lot of beaches, colonial towns, wildlife, and tea plantations. Start in Colombo, then make your way to Galle for cobblestone streets and seaside cafes. Head inland to explore the hill stations of Nuwara Eliya or Kandy, where scenic train rides and tea tastings await. It's perfect for a culturally rich yet relaxing escape,' Karan added. ⦿ Flight Time: 2.5 hours (approx.) ⦿ Top Experiences: Galle Fort, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Nuwara Eliya tea estates, scenic train to Ella, exotic beaches, water sports, Ramayna trails, turtles hatchery farm, Bellagio Casinos, famous for wellness retreats ⦿ Budget for 4D/3N: Starting from ₹ 45,000– ₹ 70,000 5. Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Phu Quoc, Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City) Karan said, 'Vietnam has become increasingly accessible for Indian travellers thanks to e-visas and direct flights. Hanoi is a lovely entry point for those looking to cruise through limestone cliffs in Halong Bay or explore the charming Old Quarter. Down south, Ho Chi Minh City is buzzing with history, French colonial architecture, and a very Instagram-friendly coffee culture. The best part? Vietnam is still relatively affordable and full of surprises.' ⦿ Flight Time: 5 hours (approx.) ⦿ Top Experiences: Halong Bay cruise, Cu Chi tunnels, Pho street food trails, Old Quarter shopping, Golden Bridge, Venice boat ride, laser show at night, Full day at Winwonders, world's longest cable care theme parks, Sunset Town, Kiss Bridge, muds spa, deep sea activities, nightlife is great ⦿ Budget for 5D/4N:Starting from ₹ 40,000– ₹ 65,000 According to Karan, whether you're planning a spontaneous getaway or just want to use up that comp-off wisely, these five destinations are proof that a fulfilling international trip doesn't have to be far, expensive, or complicated. Why is this travel trend growing? He said, 'Post-pandemic (Covid-19 pandemic), travel preferences have shifted. Many Indian travellers are choosing smart, short, and experience-rich destinations over long vacations. Visa-on-arrival or e-visa access, easy flight connectivity, and a strong rupee in some regions make these trips even more attractive. Add to that a long weekend or two, and you've got the perfect formula for a quick recharge.'
Scottish Sun
12-06-2025
- Scottish Sun
Drug mule couple who claimed they were on ‘honeymoon' caught smuggling £99k worth of cannabis at UK airport
Pair were paid just £800 each WEDDING HELLS Drug mule couple who claimed they were on 'honeymoon' caught smuggling £99k worth of cannabis at UK airport A COUPLE who claimed they were on their honeymoon were caught smuggling £99,000 worth of cannabis at a UK airport. Jeng Chow, 30, and Ley Wat, 25,were recruited as mules to carry the drugs for just £800 each in cash. Advertisement The engaged pair had travelled from their native Malaysia with 28 vacuum-packed bags of cannabis stuffed in their cases. But they were stopped at Terminal 2 of Manchester Airport by Border Force officials. Chow and Wat shared a hug and kiss in the dock as they were jailed for a year and three months at Manchester Crown Court. They pleaded guilty to one count of being concerned in the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition on the importation of a class B drug. Advertisement Prosecutors said Wat was in debt when he and Chow were recruited by smugglers to bring the drugs to the UK. The couple were provided with the cannabis and promised cash following a successful handover. They left Malaysia on April 16 and flew via Qatar before landing at Manchester. After they were caught with the drugs, Chow and Wat claimed they had travelled to the UK for their honeymoon. Advertisement The court heard the drugs were worth £99,000 at wholesale prices but the street value would have been "much higher". When she was interviewed by police, Wat told officers she believed her suitcase contained alcohol. She also revealed she and Chow were in contact with a third party and that someone was going to pick up the drugs at the airport in exchange for money. The couple will be deported back to Malaysia once their sentences have been carried out. Advertisement Their sentencing comes amid a spate of similar drug mule cases - with around 13 Brits currently kept in hellhole jails abroad. Three Brits are facing the death penalty in Bali accused of trafficking more than £300,000 worth of cocaine onto the island. A Brit couple were charged with smuggling £1million of cannabis from Thailand a mere few days ago. While several young women have been arrested trying to smuggle cannabis from Thailand. Advertisement 2 Ley Wat has been jailed for drug smuggling Credit: MEN Media
The Irish Sun
12-06-2025
- The Irish Sun
Drug mule couple who claimed they were on ‘honeymoon' caught smuggling £99k worth of cannabis at UK airport
A COUPLE who claimed they were on their honeymoon were caught smuggling £99,000 worth of cannabis at a UK airport. Jeng Chow, 30, and Ley Wat, 25,were recruited as mules to carry the drugs for just £800 each in cash. The engaged pair had travelled from their native Malaysia with 28 vacuum-packed bags of cannabis stuffed in their cases. But they were stopped at Terminal 2 of Manchester Airport by Border Force officials. Chow and Wat shared a hug and kiss in the dock as they were jailed for a year and three months at Manchester Crown Court. They pleaded guilty to one count of being concerned in the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition on the importation of a class B drug. Prosecutors said Wat was in debt when he and Chow were recruited by smugglers to bring the drugs to the UK. The couple were provided with the cannabis and promised cash following a successful handover. They left Malaysia on April 16 and flew via Qatar before landing at Manchester. After they were caught with the drugs, Chow and Wat claimed they had travelled to the UK for their honeymoon. Most read in The Sun The court heard the drugs were worth £99,000 at wholesale prices but the street value would have been "much higher". When she was interviewed by police, Wat told officers she believed her suitcase contained alcohol. She also revealed she and Chow were in contact with a third party and that someone was going to pick up the drugs at the airport in exchange for money . The couple will be deported back to Malaysia once their sentences have been carried out. Their sentencing comes amid a spate of similar drug mule cases - with around 13 Brits currently kept in hellhole jails abroad. Three Brits are A Brit couple were While several young women have been arrested trying to smuggle cannabis from Thailand. 2 Ley Wat has been jailed for drug smuggling Credit: MEN Media 2 Jeng Chow was recruited after falling into debt Credit: MEN Media
