Thailand's topics - tribe.net

Green Phangan - รักษ์พงัน

nomadspike — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 07:06:04 GMT

'Green Phangan' is comprised of a group of motivated individuals that wish to make Koh Phangan a cleaner and more environmentally friendly island.

"รักษ์พงัน" คือ การอนุรักษ์เกาะพงันต้องอาศัยจิตสำนึกในการช่วยกันดูแลรักษาของทุกๆ คน

Please join us!

5 THINGS YOU CAN DO

Say "No" to plastic bags. Bring a reusable bag when shopping.
ควรใช้ถุงกระดาษหรือถุงผ้าแทนการใช้ถุงพลาสติก

Find a bin for your rubbish and cigarette butts.
ควรทิ้งขยะและก้นบุหรี่ลงในถังขยะ

Clean rubbish off the beach and dispose of it in bins.
ช่วยกันเก็บขยะที่ชายหาด

Don't throw anything into the Sea.
อย่าทิ้งขยะลงทะเล

Bring your own reusable container when buying take away food.
ใช้กล่องอาหารส่วนตัวเวลาซื้ออาหาร

Contact Info:

Facebook Group: http://www.new.facebook.com/group.php?gid=24424893433

Email: info@greenphangan.com

Website: http://greenphangan.com (under construction)

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Learn Thai before you go

Nephyr — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 20:19:43 GMT

If your in the Portland, Or area the Naga Center offers Thai Language classes. Respect the country and culture and learn the language. check out the Nagacenter.org

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

bangkok to san fran

Eliane — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 15:43:17 GMT

hello friends..
I need to find a good travel agent in bangkok, can anyone recommend one? Im flying into bangkok from australia in late september and wanting to book a flight to san fran( return ) .. last minute styles.. if anyone knows of a reliable spot where I could set that up please pass it on thanks. Also a good clean and relatively cheap local guesthouse would be great news as I plan to stop over only for a few days. Thank you x

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

Koh Samui Recommendations

homework — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 22:08:48 GMT

I'll be traveling to Koh Samui Apr 6-12. Was hoping I could get some recommendations on what area (Chewang vs. Lamai) and some hotels. I'll also be doing some diving, so if anyone has any recommendations on dive operators, that would be greatly appreciated as well.

posted in Thailand - 12 replies

any thai hula hoopers, fire,or circus people?

Smurfette — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 23:14:59 GMT

heading over for a month from texas, wanted to find some circus people, aerialists, fire,and hula hoopers, is that you? i was also looking into a some classes while i was there for aerial or circus? or just some of my kind of people to hang with and hoop it up, or play with fire, not sure i can bring fire equip thru airport, sucks!!!

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

know of any good thai circuses to go see?

Smurfette — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 23:31:56 GMT

i was wanting to see the circus in thailand or see some acrobatics

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

texas burners in thailand for a month, going to full moon party

Smurfette — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 23:05:39 GMT

any thai burner out there?, never been to thailand, going to the full moon party on koh pangnan in august, any suggestions? i will be there for a month, all over. anyone ever been to burning man here? i've been 6 times. also looking for some hula hoopers at full moon party

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

LASIK in Thailand?

Lexicon — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 03:26:13 GMT

Anybody tried it?
Or is this just asking for trouble?
With the dollar so low, is it even that much of a savings anymore?

Lex

posted in Thailand - 5 replies

a nice spot to land in Chiang Mai?

jefstott — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 08:12:21 GMT

Hello there folks
we are arriving from SF to BKK in about a month and are thinking to just keep going to Chiang Mai all in one day.
Might as well get to where we want to be instead of spending time acclimating in Bangkok.

We are looking for a nice sweet spot to land and feel welcome and relaxed.

We traveled through Cambodia and Vietnam last year and stayed in some really great places.

Any recommendations under $50 a night?

thanks!

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

Khao San travel warning~

pgoob — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:18:22 GMT

Dear Travel Community,

I have just returned to my home in Chiang Mai from Bangkok less than 20 minutes ago. My first priority: write this review. A good and caring friend of mine was visiting Bangkok last week staying on Khao San Road with his girlfriend. I ran into her during lunch today and when I asked where her boyfriend was, this is what she said. She told me that last week her boyfriend went to Gazebo Club & Restaurant on Khao San Road late at night with some friends. He was dancing and having a laugh with some friends when suddenly, he was taken into a back room by three security guards. The security guards re-played a tape of him dancing and having a good time and repeatedly asked him if this was him. He said it was and then they begin to hassle him, demanding to know why he was so happy. Fellow travelers, this is a man with great passion for living, traveling and working on the behalf of the under privileged. Though he had been drinking, he was not on drugs nor had he caused a disruption of any kind. The three security men then proceeded to beat my friend senseless. After suffering a broken nose, a nasty concussion and several injuries to the face and body, his wallet was stolen and he was thrown into the back alley. There, a man was waiting who helped him and took him to the nearest police at the Khao San Police Station. The police at this station did not speak English and the man translated between my friend and the police. Those of us who have heard this story feel that this is a scam. My friend should have been taken to the hospital or to the nearest Tourist Police. Instead, he half-consciously signed a document written in Thai stating that a fellow TRAVELER had beaten and robbed him.

Throughout the week, my friend and his girlfriend had several conversations with other travelers that looked like they had recently been in a fight and it was the same story. These men had been targeted for a beating and robbery by security in Gazebo, which was then ignored and/or covered by the police, because they looked happy. Not because they looked rich or because they were causing problems, but because they were genuinely in the moment and having a great time. I have lived in Thailand for over two years now and while it's common knowledge that corruption on all levels runs rampant, this has to be the most disgusting display of human behavior I have witnessed in Thailand. This isn't an urban myth, but something terrible that happened to someone that I care very much about. I ask that you please boycott Gazebo and pass the word along. Thailand is a beautiful and peaceful place and my friend is a beautiful and peaceful person. This sort of behavior is unacceptable and has no place in the world. Thank you for listening… I recommend that if you come across trouble of any kind while in Southeast Asia, make sure to contact the Tourist Police – at least in Chiang Mai they are absolutely fantastic.

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

Buddhist retreat in English for women only (sorry, guys!)

Lexicon — Sat, 24 May 2008 17:56:29 GMT

I am planning to attend this retreat. I thought it might be of interest to others on this tribe.
http://tinyurl.com/4vjbcb

Lex

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Khaosan Road BKK

☼Sunshine☼ — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 04:46:22 GMT

Can anyone here recommend a great place to stay?

posted in Thailand - 18 replies

full moon party or chiang mai in may?

ninjakitty — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:16:46 GMT

hey! i'll be heading to thailand in a few days. spending a bit of time in chiang mai and then ko samui and ko phangan. anyone going to be in any of those places? anyone planning on hitting the full moon party on May 20th? i'd love to meet up!

ninja kitty (aka catie)

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

Money Exchange - traveler's checks VS cash

Burning-Marcus — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 15:25:01 GMT

Which gives a better exchange rate? Thanks...

posted in Thailand - 6 replies

Long stay/serviced apartments in Chiang Mai?

spectral — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 21:08:37 GMT

will be in Chiang Mai for a couple of months starting in November, 2008. Looking for an apartment. Any tips? Thanx!

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

Wat Prabath Nampoo, Lopburi

Arco — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 12:53:29 GMT

Today I visited Wat Prabath Nampoo in Lopuri about 2 hours north of Bangkok. This is a real eyeopener for us Westerners and everyone for that matter. The Wat cares for over 1000 people with HIV AIDS and makes their last times on this earth more bearable without much help from the government. They show relentless kindness and compassion without any prejudice to men women and children and even make sure that everyone gets a decent burial.
So if you have any spare time visit and if you have any spare Bath donate, this will make your stay in Thailand much more meaningful then an Elephant ride or an environmentally damaging Speedboat trip around some Andaman islands. At the same time you can visit Lopburi which is a beautiful non touristy town with a historic part full of temples and palaces, once the capital of one of the Thai kingdoms.
Here is an excerpt from the brochure of Wat Prabath Nampoon:

PRINCIPLES OF AND REASONS FOR THE PROJECTS

More than one million Thais are affected with HIV/AIDS and the rate was rapidly increasing 14 years ago. Most sufferers were shunned by an ill-informed society and were cast aside and left to die excruciating deaths. Hence, in 1992, the venerable Chao Khun Phra Udom Prachatorn founded the Thammarug Niwaet or the “Place of True Protection.”

This commitment has set an example for the country. He has humanely helped those who are afflicted, showing compassion and understanding, as should all Buddhists, so that we all can live together in peace and harmony.

SERVICES-WHOM WE HELP

- AIDS patients in their terminal stages.
- Homeless second stage patients.
- Families where all members have AIDS.
- HIV positive children as full-blown AIDS children.
- Elderly persons who are left without support because all their children have been killed by the disease.
Ten of thousands of children in Thailand have caught AIDS from their mothers. Almost all of them would soon die. Those who survived became orphans. The lucky few were taken in by relatives, but the majority had nowhere to go. So we take them in and nurse them physically and emotionally. We provide what they need most : love and security. We are able to dramatically cut the mortality rate among these children and help them live happy and healthy lives by administering antiviral drugs, giving them the right nutrition, and proper exercise. But most of all we provide good care, education and love, to help them mature and assimilate into society.

In Thailand, you may send your contributions for the children and AIDS patients by

Money Order, Bank Checks, Cashiers Checks, or through the post office to Phra Udom Prachatorn, Loving Kindness Save The World, Wat Phra Baht Nampoo, Lopburi 15000

For further information please call : 01-831-3441 or 036-413-805 Ext.106. Fax : 036-422-600. If calling from out side Thailand please call : +66081-831-3441. Only the Chao Khun is fluent in English.

You may also transfer your donation directly to the bank accounts at “ Ah Torn Prachanat Funds”

Bangkok Bank, Lopburi Branch. Account Number 289-0-84697-1
Thai Military Bank, Lopburi Branch. Account Number 304-2-41277-9
Siam Commercial Bank, Lopburi Branch. Account Number 579-2-33730-7
Kasikorn Bank, Thanon Surasongkram Branch. Account Number 174-2-34567-6
Krung Sri Ayudhya Bank, Lopburi Branch. Account Number 111-1-47300-7
Siam City Bank, Lopburi Branch. Account Number 340-2-14976-0

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

Best beaches on Koh Phagnan???

Burning-Marcus — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:52:20 GMT

I want tour the best beaches of Koh Phagnan. Suggestions and places to stay recommendations will be so appreciated. From Bangkok do you recommend taking the train or bus and to which town do I go to get to Koh Phagnan? If I'm only staying in Thailand for 3 weeks then I don't need to get a visa in America do I? Thanks so much.

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

Thai Visas / 6 Month Stay ???

Kitesailor — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:16:38 GMT

I have seen so much conflicting information about what is going on with visas in Thailand.

From what I have been able to gather, I need a 60 day tourist visa from the US, then an "in country" renewal of the visa, then three exits out of country to stay there 180 days.

As I understand it, the 90 days start the first time you enter Thailand on a Free Enrty 30 day permit.

Does this sound right?

Mike

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

Help with an essay on Burning Man International Regionals

Granny — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 22:02:02 GMT

Hello everyone,
My name is Jeremy Hockett, and I am currently working on an essay to be included in an academic book on American Popular Culture and its relationship with various cultures around the world. I am hoping to enlist your help in answering questions that will allow my colleague and myself collect data on the Thailand Regional members’ views on the Burning Man Regional organizing efforts, and how this may have impacted your own organizing efforts and communication. I have the questionnaire we are using to collect data in both MS Word and Adobe PDF. If you are willing to respond, it would be greatly appreciated, and if you would be willing to help translate the questionnaire into Thai or help with translating responses, we would be eternally grateful! Please contact me with any questions, concerns or suggestions.

Sincerely,
Jeremy Hockett, PhD
American Studies
Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division

hockettj@msu.edu

www.msu.edu/~hockettj

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

Anyone in Chang Mai want to hang...just got in

sonicbridges — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 08:31:01 GMT

Just got into Chang Mai today and don't have any plans as of yet. Might check out Pai and possibly the Elephant Nature Sancturary, but other than that just planning on diggin in for a few days unless I get stuck a little longer. But I'm traveling alone and would love to get together with other travelers or ex-pats to check this place out together or to learn about it more deeply from you. And just to have some company.

peace,.
astro

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

Getting authentic Thai taste at restaurants

cee — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 08:19:13 GMT

Hey all,
If you like Thai food the way Thais eat it (and not they way they serve it to you at tourist places), check out our guide.
It has sections on ordering food thai-taste, helpful translations for vegetarians and a section for people with food allergies too.
There's also notes on how to find authentic food, how to eat thai style and more.

Please let me know what you think, and if the guide has helped you!

http://www.realthairecipes.com/articles/thai-dining-guide/

Enjoy.

posted in Thailand - 6 replies

Are you a DJ or Musician in Thailand?

fatfinger — Tue, 08 May 2007 09:37:42 GMT

If you are a talented DJ or live musician currently living or travelling in thailand, get in touch with me. There may be an opportunity for you to share your art on a cool backpacker's resort on Koh Chang. Drop me a line for details...

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

cellphone problems, is it just me?

leslie — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 08:57:37 GMT

for the past week, since a couple of days before new years, i haven't been able to get through to my friend's cell phones in thailand... mostly i get a recording that "the destination you dialed does not exist" -- it's possible all my friends have broken their phones or run out of minutes at once, but not likely.

anyone else having this problem or have any idea what it could be? it's making me nuts!

posted in Thailand - 4 replies

guest house with wireless in bangkok?

rheo — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 21:21:58 GMT

anyone know if there are any guesthouses around that have wireless that i could get online and possibly telecommute to work while in Thailand?

preferably on or near khao san road would be good but i'm up for exploring other parts of the city if it's not like triple the price or anything.

thanks

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Prescription glasses in Chiang Mai?

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 03:13:36 GMT

Hello tribe,
Does anyone know of any good places in C.M. to get prescription glasses?
I just need them for reading/computer, not for driving or outdoors, etc.
I am a bit nearsighted with a bit of Astigmatism.
Thanks!
Tan

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

Anyone stayed around Chumphon

Kitesailor — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 22:08:45 GMT

Looking for first ad information on this area. Somebody has to have stayed there.

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Any info on Dental Work in Thailand?

Dizzy — Tue, 21 Jun 2005 02:34:25 GMT

I visit Thailand about once a year - usually for beach time, hiking and exploration of surrounding countries. I am contemplating getting my fillings replaced while in BK - and possibly some veneers added to my front teeth.

Does anybody have any experience with getting dental work in BK? Horror stories? Rave reviews?

Dan

posted in Thailand - 12 replies

New Thai Massage DVD !

timholt — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 04:08:14 GMT

Check out the release of this great new Thai Massage Instructional DVD on Youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQ8gYcalp3o

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

I got my ticket for Tuesday !!!

pj — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 02:56:41 GMT

Well I got a ticket for thailand - so great - i have hardly ever been over seas and so bored with Canada, I hope this will change my life a bit and find some energy to get back to finishing up my book and stuff like that.

I don't know where to go, I can't decide, if you have any tips - I don't really want to hang lazy around the beach all day - i want to party and perhaps find some spirtual help over there.

I am wondering if I should bring my laptop for writting and was also thinking of designing websites for places to stay or charity to guesthouse owners - does this sound silly to bring the sucker box over ? I don't want to have to worry to much about it. I was also wondering if there would be teachers for electronic music or also DJ gigs ? I thought perhaps but that might be a pipe dream or something.

After a while I might head over to India and Nepal so if anyone is thinking about that... and want to travel together.

If you have any tips for me that would be great, I don't have a clue where I would go. How much could I live on you think ?\

Thanks guys

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

Traveling to Thailand for the first time

nookshake — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 17:50:53 GMT

Hi guys- Im going to thailand in early april. I was wondering if there are any suggestions for cheap places to stay, good sites to buy airline tickets (what is the average price anyways? im getting a lot of variety in prices), good spots and bad spots in Thailand, etc. I will be there for 2 weeks and could use any tidbit of info anyone can give me. I am looking for beautiful scenery, places to spin poi, lots of great food, and some meditation, Thanks!:)

posted in Thailand - 6 replies

koh chang... who's been?

sassigyrl32 — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 14:22:31 GMT

hey there- i just made reservations for december 23rd to the 30th in koh chang... at magic garden resort. has anyone been there? how's the beach area? my friend told me not to go to the gulf of siam in december any idea y?

any input would be great.

posted in Thailand - 5 replies

Thai Massage Intensive in Sebastopol / February / Join us !

timholt — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 17:43:56 GMT

Traditional Thai Massage Workshop
with Tim Holt, CMT, RTT and Abby Bard, CMT
9am-6pm, Sebastopol, $700.00, 50 hrs
February18-24 (Mon-Sun), 2008

Traditional Thai Massage Workshop with Tim Holt, CMT, RTT 9am-6pm, Sebastopol, $700.00, 50 hrs
Traditional Thai Massage is an act of meditation for both giver and receiver. It is a beautiful form of bodywork performed on a supportive floor mat. The receiver is fully clothed. It incorporates applied Hatha Yoga and Chinese acupressure. It is luxurious, challenging, intimate, and deeply therapeutic. You will learn the Chiang Mai style, as it has been practiced in the Wats (temples) for almost 2500 years. Our focus for this workshop is a professional training for Massage Therapists and Yoga instructors. We will teach a full body two-hour treatment in a demonstration - practice format. Students will learn Thai Massage sequences in the supine, prone, and side-lying positions..
Tim Holt, CMT is a Registered Thai Therapist and Instructor with the Thai Healing Alliance. He is director of the East West Massage School in Sebastopol. He has studied in Chiang Mai,Thailand with several respected teachers, holds a Teacher Training Certification from I.T.M. He has been practicing Traditional Thai Massage for 12 years.
Abby Bard,CMT is Certified Massage Therapist. She is the owner of the Upstairs Studio in Sebastopol, Ca. She has studied Traditional Thai Massage in Chiang Mai, Thailand and practices Thai Massage at Osmosis, the Enzyme Bath Spa and in her private practice. She is also a gourmet Thai cook.

Tim Holt is a certified massage therapist and California state approved instructor of massage therapy. He moved to Kobe, Japan in 1989 where he opened a successful private massage practice working with both local Japanese clients as well as foreigners living in Japan. He also studied Masunaga or Zen style Shiatsu with an instructor in Kyoto. Using Japan as a base, he explored Asia and it’s healing systems. He has studied the traditional massage of Thailand with several respected teachers. Tim is an accomplished instructor of massage therapy. He is an instructor of Massage Therapy at the Massage Therapy Institute in Davis , Alive and Well, Institute of Conscious Bodywork in San Raphael, Diamond Light School of Massage and Healing Arts, and the School of Shiatsu and Massage at Harbin Hot Springs in Middletown, Ca. . He is the director of the East West Massage School in Sebastopol, California. He teaches continuing education workshops and provides spa staff training in California, as well as Japan.

All workshops held in “The Upstairs Studio”, 343 Florence St., Sebastopol, Ca. 95472
California State BPPVE registered programs
A $100.00 deposit is required to register for each class
For more information and to register: please call 707-823-1480
East West Massage School
8017 Washington Ave., Sebastopol, Ca. 95472
eastwestmassageschool.com

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

travel decisions...

catielowder — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 03:07:59 GMT

i need to buy a plane ticket soon! but i am going away for about a month in february...thinking about going to thailand (or indonesia...bali....or maybe lao). but perhaps there is some advice to be found. i would like a little retreat aspect....maybe spend some time at a retreat center or monastery. but also lots of natural beauty time...national parks....hiking...not too much urban time...just a tad out of curiosity. i would be travelling on my own...and haven't travelled much on my own but have been to europe and china under more organized family style circumstances. so...any suggestions out there for how to do it....or how not to do it? perhaps i will choose based on airefare. eek. thank you...

posted in Thailand - 6 replies

A year in Asia?

fieryz — Thu, 10 May 2007 19:22:26 GMT

Have/Had you been travelling in Asia for a year? Id like to hear about your experices.

posted in Thailand - 11 replies

Tung Wualaen Beach / Chumphon

Kitesailor — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 22:28:18 GMT

Any one been here? It is suppose to be a new kitesurfing beach in November thru January. I was wondering about bungalow complexes on the beach and also about fruit markets near the beachand if there were any.

Is motorbike needed to get around here?

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Volunteering in Thailand

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 13:33:50 GMT

Hello,

I am interested in going to Thailand and am curious about any possible volunteering opportunities. I am not interested in paying to volunteer, but would like to find an experience that may offer room and board in exchange for service. Does anyone have any ideas? I would be most interested in working in an orphanage. Thank you.

posted in Thailand - 5 replies

Which website for cheap tixs to Thailand/or India?

fieryz — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 01:57:32 GMT

Help me? Thanks. Cheap tixs to Thailand or India for one way. I plan to out of here for a while and stay in India for 6 months but what is about VISA. I have no idea. Smiling. Thanks....

posted in Thailand - 9 replies

December in Thailand - Travel Tips?

BenjaminPatterson — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 19:54:22 GMT

I'm planning to be in Thailand this December for about 3 weeks. I be visiting a few friends & seeing places I've been to before. However, I'm also interested in traveling south and seeing some new places I haven't seen before and would like some recommendations from people who've been. What are the pro's & con's, in your experience, about some of these places? Also, what about the transportation options going south? bus, train, or airplane?

Here's some of the places on my list: Hua Hin, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Ao Phagn Gna (National Park).

I also have a friend in Pattaya. So, if I visit him I may take a side trip to Koh Chang.

I'm also curious about going further South, to some of the Muslim areas (I do speak some Arabic) & wonder what people who've been recently can say about the situation there.

posted in Thailand - 5 replies

chiang rai

leslie — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 23:45:17 GMT

i lived in chiang mai for several months six years ago (and then spent ten months on kho phangan working on a project), but visited chiang rai for the first time on my last visit six months ago, because i sponsor a child in an orphange there (now i sponsor her and her sister)...

i loved chiang rai, and think it might be the place i'd like to live part-time, as i move toward my goal of spending half the year in thailand. more chill, cheaper, better weather, and easy to get to because they have a great airport... so when i go again in a couple of weeks (ack! less than that now!), i'll be spending my time up there to check out what it would be like to live there.

i'd love to hear any suggestions for areas to consider, experiences with renting houses, the kinds of people you ran into, the farang community, food, anything that you know about chiang rai and its environs. got any tips, advice or insights?

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

Beaches of Koh Samat and Koh Phangnan

Burning-Marcus — Sun, 07 Oct 2007 12:10:44 GMT

Would love input on favorite beaches of either of these two islands...Thanks...

posted in Thailand - 6 replies

Koh Samet

Dragon-Pearl — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 14:31:38 GMT

I am going to go to Koh Samet tomorrow, any suggestions or information?

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Looking to meet any English speaking ex-pats living full time in Bangkok

Burning-Marcus — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 11:43:29 GMT

Hoping to make some new friends in Bangkok who speak English.

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

What to pac?

alyexiah — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 22:09:26 GMT

Aloha,
I will be taking a small frame pack and a small daypack/purse. What should I pack? Also, how is it to mail purchases back to the states?
Thanks.
Alexandra

posted in Thailand - 7 replies

customs

Elke — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 02:07:43 GMT

this will be my third time to thailand and the rest of south east asia
one question
i have heard rumor there are now many more problems with entering without an exit ticket proving you will leave
is there truth to this - please let me know
thanks
elke

posted in Thailand - 5 replies

Is anyone in this tribe teaching English in Thailand?

Mike-108 — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 22:59:52 GMT

I´m thinking about going there to teach English myself, so if your are please let me know how it´s going!

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

where to go in thailan

alyexiah — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 06:07:02 GMT

Aloha! I am traveling to Thailand to Chiang Mai to the Tao Wellness Center later this week. I will have about a week after that to travel wherever in Thailand. I'm overwhelmed. Where should I go? I live on Maui, so tranquil beaches are not a huge draw, although I'm wondering if doing the Full Moon Party is worth it ... I'm travelling alone, and really would like to experience some key Thai places. I'd love to hear peoples recommendations, thanks.

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

Thailand or India?

geminifairy — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 21:48:33 GMT

All my travels so far have been in countries I speak the language; everywhere from Canada all the way down to Mexico & Central America. I want to see something completely different, where there's nothing familiar. I know very little about these countries and am feeling it out to see which would fit the best. I'd go between 2 - 6 months starting the end of November or so.

India :: I've heard some intense things about India; how it's not very travel friendly, that it overwhelms your senses too much and exhausts you, too man people haggling you everywhere all the time, everyone trying to rip you off everywhere, it stinks, etc. etc. Is this true? It doesn't sound exciting if it is. What draws me is the spirituality, yoga, the colors, etc.

Thailand :: I've heard the opposite; lots of backpackers, fun, friendly, easy to travel, etc.

* Also, is it possible to get an open return ticket ? If not, how much does it cost to change the return date?

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

is bangkok worth it?

Margot — Sat, 14 Jul 2007 15:01:13 GMT

I live in India but am going to the states to visit family for a few weeks. I have a flight to Chiang Mai on my way back, where a friend lives, and I have about 6 days before I need to be back in the office (in Delhi).

I was thinking of recovering for a few days, hanging out for a few more, then heading to Bangkok via train for a fcouple of days. But now I am starting to think that maybe I will just fly straight to India from Chiang Mai.

So can Bangkok be missed?

posted in Thailand - 11 replies

B-Live concert/party

rafaelO — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 09:53:19 GMT

anyone going to this? sounds like it could be good
http://blivethailand.com/

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Heading to Thailand, May as well DJ while i'm there!

Matt — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 07:12:03 GMT

Matt here (aka DJ Sketch/sketchisim)

I run a company called Strike3 and am a promoter/Dj here in Australia. I'm looking at coming over to thailand this year for Nov/dec.

Who would I talk to about DJing during the period i'm in thailand?
I am lookin to play for free as I will be in the region anyway.

I have extensive background supporting international Dj's. Kenobi, Damian John, Mind Electric, Karl Sav, Stanton Warriors, Menis, Chris Carter/Marcus Knight/ Kleinberg/ Diverted and plenty more, i just dont have any contacts over in Thailand anymore.

www.myspace.com/chemistrynights
www.myspace.com/sketchisim

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Housing in Bangkok

Will — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 01:02:06 GMT

Retired professor needs a furnished room or small apartment with internet access for several months in Bangkok. Any information, referrals, etc., will be appreciated. I'm arriving in two weeks. Can I post my email here? wyaryan@yahoo.com.

Will

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

looking for rainbows and burners in thailand

rafaelO — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 22:01:40 GMT

I'm looking to connect with any burners and rainbow peeps, especially rainbow and burner thai people.
I just relocate to chiang mai and will spend the next year or so studying thai culture, yoga, thai chi, music, dance, art, photography, cooking, massage, and of course to travel further thru out se asia.
any like minded people out there, you can find me on tribe

rafael0

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

Relocating to Chiang Mia Tomorrow!

rafaelO — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 09:43:15 GMT

I'm so excited! i've wanted to live in cm since my first visit in '99 :)

i'm looking to connect with any Burners and Rainbow peeps, especially Thais.
I'm basically there to study thai culture, yoga, thai chi, musicdance, art, photography, cooking, massage and of course to travel further thru out se asia.
any like minded people out there, you can find me on tribe

rafael

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

vague itinerary

Margot — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 08:41:29 GMT

So I am going to Thailand and will be there for 6 days before heading home to India. I'll arrive on a Thursday from the West Coast of the US and after 20 some odd hours in transit, will probably be a bit jet legged :)

I have a friend in Chiang Mai with whom I will stay so I was thinking:

Thursday- arrive around mid-day, try to recover from jet lag
Friday- relax, recover, explore a bit
Saturday - hang out with my friends, still in Chiang Mai
Sunday- head to Pai in the morning, stay there
Monday-overnight in Pai
Tuesday-return to Chiang Mai suring the day
Wednesday- fly to Delhi in the afternoon

Sound good? Any tips on things to do in Chaing Mai?

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

Coming Soon!

Dragon-Pearl — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 03:06:08 GMT

Hey,
Just wanted let friends know I am coming to Thailand September 12, Chiang Mai shortly there after...I am so Excited!
Aloha to every one!!

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

In and around Chiang Mai, Chiang Dao

Margot — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 08:13:52 GMT

I plan to visit a friend in Chiang Mai for about a week in October and was wondering if anyone had info about chiang dao and other good day trips (or short overnight trips) to do while in the area. Thanks

posted in Thailand - 4 replies

anyone in krabi right now?

Fri, 22 Jun 2007 02:56:24 GMT

how's the weather there now? accuweather.com says it's very cloudy and feels like 38 - 40 celsius.

i'm thinking of going there with a friend for a 5-day vacation from the 30th to the 5th but think it may be not so nice weather.

i'm in chiang mai now and it's hot, but it's mostly sunny with only partial rain and not very cloudy. so to me, it would be nice to go somewhere sunny with water if possible. already been to pai and all that and it's nice... but i'm really craving the beaches.

thanks for any help!

tan

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

New Years, BKK Dentist, and Sak Yant......

sylas — Mon, 12 Dec 2005 21:11:50 GMT

I would most appreciate info on a chill place to be near a beach for new years, a good dentist in Bangkok, and any info on getting Sak Yant tattoos.(I already found the site sakyant.com). I fly into BKK on the 26th and have to be back in BKK on the 6th. Thanks all
Sy

posted in Thailand - 8 replies

Koh Chang

Arco — Tue, 17 Oct 2006 06:58:41 GMT

I just spent a week in Koh Chang and it is really worth the 5 hour busride from Bkk. Avoid the upmarket White Beach aera and had straight to Lonley Beach or Bailan where you find a varity of Bungalows at all price ranges. I staid at the White House in Bailan for 550 Bath a night. Airconditioned Bungalow with TV right on the beach, clean and nice (a few ants thrown in for good luck). At Lonley Beach I visited the Magic Garden for a party and was made very welcom by Marcus and his crew, good place to chill out. Oposite to the Magic Garden is Annies and Dannys KuBa bar and tattoo shop. Danny is a very talented artist and does great work, especially traditional Thai style, so if you are in the market for a tattoo this is the place to go. They are a young Thai couple trying to make a go of things, so please call in and have a drink and a chat. I also went snorkling at long beach on the otherside of the island and managed to gash myself on coral and ended up with 35 stiches from Koh Chang Hospital, a bargain at 1000 bath including tetanus shot and antibiotics, but better avoid such capers. Now I am off to Phuket for my anual pilgrimage to the Vegetarian Festival, unfortunatly I won't do much walking in the parades with my sore leg. Anyonein the aera should not miss the Festival Oct 23 to 31 in Phuket Town. If you want an intro to visit
the temples during the piercings send me a message :)

posted in Thailand - 14 replies

North versus South

Margot — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 11:53:41 GMT

I know that N and S Thailand are quite different, so what are some of the pros and cons of each? And given a choice, would you go N or S and why?

posted in Thailand - 7 replies

Rainy season

MCW — Wed, 02 May 2007 19:00:08 GMT

Howdy,
Planning a trip for August and September to Thailand, Laos, Vietnam. I realize this is the rainy season. I've had some people tell me to avoid this time due to flooding etc. and others say it is rainy, but everything is very green and they love the rainy season.

Anyone have an opinion on the matter?

posted in Thailand - 10 replies

WIsdom teeth....puuled in Bangkok?????

Ericardo — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:22:14 GMT

Does anybody know of good dentist to get the wisdom teeth out from me mouth in bangkok..... making me smile all krooked.....and its painful.

thanks

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

Juggler in Chiang Mai

jessieq — Fri, 30 Mar 2007 06:08:09 GMT

Does anybody know where all the jugglers and circus freaks hang out in Chiang Mai?

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

Sak Yant in Chiang Mai

Romesh — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 04:38:42 GMT

I will be traveling to Thailand at the end of May to visit my sister who lives in Chiang Mai. I've been fascinated by Sak Yant tatooing for a long time and hope I may get a chance to get something done while I am there. I'm not sure that I will be able to visit the Bangkok area, however. Does anyone know of anything in the Chiang Mai area?

Thank you!

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

Koh Lanta Recommendations

jessieq — Tue, 22 May 2007 15:00:53 GMT

Can anyone suggest a good guesthouse on Koh Lanta? My budget is 100-400 B
I'm looking for a good atmosphere, good veg food and hardwood floors.

Any fire spinners on Koh Lanta? Please pm me.

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

How's the weather down south?

jessieq — Fri, 04 May 2007 07:35:32 GMT

The 5 day weather forecasts thunderstorms every day for most places down south.

How is it for those of you who are there now? Still pleasant?

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Songkran makes me wet...

leonmac — Sun, 29 Apr 2007 13:14:32 GMT

Songkran season is one of the best times of the year for border crossings... it doesnt matter how many stamps you have in your passport... Just stick the passport in the sink and voila! Songkran! Those stamps will be blurry and illegible.
With all the smudged wetted passports coming through you are sure to fly right through immigration...
Only in Thailand, only around Songkran.
But the risk comes in using your passport in other less tolerant countries...
China is getting picky with moldy passports...

Oh' and my mum was given a 2 month stamp in Ranong. We had some worries- since she had failed to check back in with immigration- (all those mini checkpoints on the river confuse drunk people)...
But came back the next day- showed a little middle aged flirtatious cleavage and 'what an amusing story to go with it...'

L

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Thailand Burners

Gystilyn — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 17:51:22 GMT

Greatings... Im gona be traveling solo through Bali and Thailand about the month of September 07, right after the Nevada BurningMan. Any Thai Burners out there interested in meeting up for tea?

posted in Thailand - 12 replies

Beach loungin

jessieq — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 10:20:50 GMT

I just got to Bangkok, I'd like to go chill on the beach tho, too smoggy hot here for me. Where's the best place to buy a bus ticket to Krabi?

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

Elephant trekking is unethical

jessieq — Sun, 08 Apr 2007 11:36:05 GMT

I just found out the other night that elephant trekking is highly unethical.

Elephants need to eat 15-18 hours a day. Taking weight on their backs damages their bodies, they can carry someone on the back of the neck but not on the back. These trekking elephants work 10 hours a day hauling people around on thier backs. It is very bad for them.

If you want to support elephants, go visit an elephant camp.

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

want a fun thai language class?

leslie — Thu, 05 Apr 2007 19:45:24 GMT

a month ago, we started a regular wednesday-night thai class at my house in san francisco.

right now, we are three students and one absolutely rocking teacher named aric, who is from chiang mai and who not only is teaching us the language (including reading and writing) but who cooks a thai meal for us and brings it every week!

we meet from 6:30 until 10:00 pm, with some social time, plenty of study time, and a meal break. two of us are sort of intermediate, and one is more of a beginner (though he's lived in thailand for a while). ideally new people will have a little thai language, and the willingness to study to learn more.

we each pay $20 per class plus $5 towards ingredients for the next meal. interested? shoot me a pm and let's talk. we can probably fit three more people in the group without much problem.

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

Full Moon Gathering

jessieq — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 10:19:02 GMT

I heard there's a gathering on April 2 for the full moon. Can anyone fill me in on anything more about this?

Anything going on for equinox gatherings?

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

Introduction

murrman — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 15:06:51 GMT

Hello there,

I'd like to say hello from Bangkok where I'm currently living (sukhumvit) and going to school. I would love to meet some new people so drop me a pm and perhaps we'll meet up for a singha.
peace,
murray

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

haze

Sat, 17 Mar 2007 16:40:06 GMT

Something to seriously consider if you're planning a trip to the north. I was there a year ago. I felt the effects of the haze on my breathing, and I saw the slash and burn (in Laos.) I'm glad to see that someone is at least attempting to do something about it now.

BANGKOK (AFP) - Military planes have flown over northern Thailand, dumping water in an effort to contain haze which has affected some five million people for the past two weeks, an official said Saturday.

Two aircraft dropped water in the northern tourist hotspot of Chiang Mai where air quality still remained at a level considered unhealthy due to the haze caused by slash-and-burn farming and wildfires in the region and parts of neighboring Laos and Myanmar.

Army-installed Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont, who visited the haze-hit region this week, ordered the military to dispatch planes to ease environmental and health effects of the haze, said an air force spokesman.

"Initially, our operation covers only Chiang Mai, but we will assess the situation and may expand (water spraying operations) to other haze-hit provinces," said Group Captain Monthol Suchookorn.

Apart from Chiang Mai, the haze has blanketed seven northern provinces and the public health ministry said it affected the health of 1.5 million residents, mostly suffering eye irritation and sore throats.

The public health ministry has distributed some 600,000 surgical masks and enlisted thousands of volunteers to distribute them and offer advice about possible respiratory problems.

The ministry also has handed out 400,000 booklets on how to cope with haze

posted in Thailand - 2 replies

Seen those...dancers...?

leonmac — Sun, 01 Apr 2007 11:25:02 GMT

Seen those Bangkok breakdancers in the Fort Park weekly?
Dig it!

L

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Yoga Studios in Chiang Mai?

jessieq — Fri, 30 Mar 2007 06:09:00 GMT

Anyone know of a good yoga studio in Chiang Mai?

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

Traveling alone.

SINGE — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 12:57:51 GMT

This is one of the first times I have traveled alone and this is definitely more alone then I have ever been. I don't have a single friend in this whole country. It has been fairly entertaining thus far but at day 4 I am finding my self getting rather board and just trying to find things to occupy my time.

So I have a question for all you people who like to travel alone:
- What do you get out of it?
- Where you you find the joy in flying solo?

I am discovering that for some reason if I am not sharing an experience with someone I get WAY less out of it.

Here are the reasons I love to travel.
- I love to see new places and new cultures in hopes that I might catch a glimpse of how others see the world.
- I love to change my environment in huge ways so It forces me to adapt and change and learn
- and I love to meet new people

I found my self walking around the markets of Hanoi trying to find some other travelers to meet. This activity feels very weird to me, I much prefer meeting people more naturally then hunting down any cute foreigners I can find. I'm becoming a bit starved for human interaction on a deeper level. I've felt this way before and it was very challenging. I'm very addicted to people and yet I want to be able to travel alone and be happy.

Any advice? Is there some resource of human interaction I might be missing?

thanks for the help, and the interaction =]

posted in Thailand - 10 replies

Safety in the south?

Carla — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 03:21:53 GMT

Hi all,

I'm going to Thailand in April and will be going as far south as Krabi Province. There has recently been a fair amount of media coverage about violent incidents in the far south, especially on the news here in the Philippines. I'm not overly concerned because I think Krabi Province is north enough of the effected areas to be safe. However, I'd like to hear your thoughts about this. Is anyone in southern Thailand now and can offer some comments about the atmosphere there in this regard? I'm planning to go specifically to the Railay Pensinsula (Ton Sai) and Koh Phi Phi.

Thanks!

posted in Thailand - 6 replies

Tattoos

The_Duchess_Allison — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 01:15:20 GMT

Anyone have any tattoo shop recommendations in Bangkok?

posted in Thailand - 4 replies

Koh Phi Phi

jessieq — Sat, 17 Mar 2007 12:17:19 GMT

Has anyone been to Koh Phi Phi since the tsunami? What is it like now?

posted in Thailand - 7 replies

Kho Chang? Best beach island for R&R and Play?

eyefleye — Thu, 08 Mar 2007 21:26:28 GMT

Kho Chang, Krabi, Kho Phangan.... which Island to chose?

We're currently leaning toward Kho Chang. This trip is about family bonding (me & teenage kids), enjoying our time together while learning about a new culture, BEACHTIME, making new friends during our travels. We prefer less touristy commercialism, less exploitation, more real, less expensive, naturally cleaner....R&R with options of things to do or places to go if we get bored...
If we end up in Kho Chang - which beach area would you suggest?

Your overall thoughts?

Also, any referrals on inexpensive but decent beach bungalows?

Peace,

eyefleye

posted in Thailand - 5 replies

Traveling in Thailand with teenaged children

eyefleye — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 07:21:52 GMT

Hello travelers!

We're heading to Thailand in mid-March for a couple of weeks, and it's our very first visit to Thailand. In fact, our very first visit to Asia! We're super excited, but don't want to end up running all over the place, trying to see everything all in this trip, but instead spend quality time and experiences, planned and unplanned.

Our basic plan is to fly into Bangkok, and immediately head up to Chiang Mai. Thinking about spending about 3-4 days in Chiang Mai, do a jungle hike and maybe an elephant tour, and then fly down to the south beach areas for R&R, probably Krabi, but open for suggestions. We're hoping for lots of massages, lots of beach time, and some but little shopping.

We'll spend a day or so in Bangkok before flying home at the end of our trip.

My kids are 14 & 16, pretty well traveled (Mexico & Northern Europe), but we've never been to Asia.

Any suggestions for us that would make this trip an amazing 1st Thailand introduction?

Thanks!

eyefleye

posted in Thailand - 5 replies

dentistry in thailand?

taradakini — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 09:19:29 GMT

I have heard that you can get inexpensive dental work done that is safe, hygenic and quality... in Thailand.

Does anyone have experience with this? Can anyone recommend a dentist?

I have a fair bit of work to get done, so I would prefer to do it somewhere that I can chill out on a beautiful beach between sessions and recouperate.

yes, I want my cake and eat it too... that is why I need a dentist. : )

thanks

posted in Thailand - 4 replies

The water situation

jessieq — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 00:24:49 GMT

I'm going to Thailand in a couple days for the first time, I'm just ecstatic!!

What is the straight dope on the water situation? I've decided not to immunize for anything, and I'm bringing a camping water filter with me. I've heard that I should be cautious about raw food, fruit without skin, and any produce sold be weight. Different people say different things. Is it reletavely safe to eat the street food? Do I need to be concerned about produce? Is grapefruit seed extract sufficient to prevent parasites? I need answers please!

posted in Thailand - 7 replies

looking for two places....

Ericardo — Sat, 03 Mar 2007 12:18:31 GMT

I hear about the tiger monk sanctuary.. anybody been and have some advice
and the
monkey temple or village...... where abouts and maybe some advice.
gonna find these spots and maybe somebody can tell me how amzing or whatever it is
much love
thanks for the thai tribe..... yall helped me so much already
been here for 3 days and this farang feels like hes home.

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

Come help us Build our Eco-Village in Norther Thailand

Compash — Sun, 28 Jan 2007 07:01:56 GMT

The Baan Thai Project: Building Stage December 2006 and On...

I'd like to invite you to join me and the Baan Thai Project as we begin the wonderful adventures into the unknown! The Baan Thai Project is a project aimed at providing an attainable example of sustainable living in northern Thailand, bringing a degree of fulfillment to those involved, as well as being open to anyone who is interested in learning and living in this way.

Check out some photos of the project at:

www.baanthai.shutterfly.com

(You don’t have to sign up for a shutterfly account to view them).

And check us out at:

tribes.tribe.net/baanthai

In October- November of 2006, the founding members of Baan Thai took a Permaculture Design Course with aspects of eco-village design, and now that it is complete we are ready to start creating the physical manifestation of the project. Currently (as of Jan 15th, 2007) we are in the beginning stages of building a huge adobe workshed/garage/art studio space. This will function as wood shop etc while we get the rest of the community is laid out over the coming years.

We are excited by the opportunity to invite family, friends and soon-to-be friends to join us in the building of our vision as well as joining with us in the playing, creating, working and growing that it takes to create a community. The initial idea for inviting you (and many others) was to help in the building and work that it will take to create the physical aspects of our community, but after daydreaming about it, what sounds more wonderful is simply the idea of having many wonderful people with us on the land.

Our hope is that the atmosphere of this time will be one of conscious creation of joy, of growth, of expansion, of learning, of loving, of playing, and of generally becoming something even more wonderful. I like to think that we are creating new culture. A culture based not on the acquisition of money, things, fame or popularity, but on sharing, growing, learning, and having ample opportunity to look deeper (into whatever it is one is interested in). A culture that looks upon doing new things with excitement rather than fear; a culture that support each other every time we fall down, with a laughter of love, rather than humiliation! A culture that makes choices that are in alignment with our morals and beliefs, even if they seems a little scary or challenging, rather than one that takes the "accepted" route.

When: December 1, 2006 and on and on…

You are welcome to stay with us for as short or long of period as you like, after Dec. 1, 2006. The best time to be in Thailand is from December through March, so that is why I listed those dates, but stay as long as you like.

Where: Moo Baan Mae Jo, Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai, Thailand

We have acquired ten acres about 60 km north east of Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand. The land currently has 350 mango trees, 30 banana trees, a number of papaya trees, a dorm space that fits about 12 people, a humanure composting toilet, beautiful outdoor showers (Thai style), two adobe huts, and two bamboo bungaloes. We also have a number of tents that are available to guests. The land is situated right next to a huge national park in Thailand (Sri Lanna National Park), and has a trail running through our property that leads up into the park, right to a small lake about 25 minute walk away. Next door is Pun Pun Educational Center (www.punpunthailand.org) which is a WWOOFing farm, seed saving bank, and natural building center. There is also an organic-food cooking school (You Sabai) next to them who have adobe style huts to stay in during cooking workshops. Our community will help to build a greater community in cahoots with Pun Pun and You Sabai. The town is situated at the end of a road next to the village of Mae Jo. There are about two to three hundred people in the village, and they are fascinated with the fact that foreigners want to be there, working in the soil and building mud homes. Our property lies about 750 yards down a bumpy dirt road from the main road in Mae Jo.

What: There will be an abundance of activity on the property throughout that entire year. We will be building adobe structures, in the style put forth by Jo Jandai (from Pun Pun), as well as building with Bamboo, and stick frame. The adobe building is a very fun and easily learned process that makes us all realize that building our own home with our own hands is completely within our reach. (And it can have a lot more funk and groove than your common rectangular prism style western house!) We are constantly expanding our gardens, with the hope of supplying a good portion of our own food needs, and covering most of the land with a permaculture style food forest. We will be building pathways, water catchment systems, composting toilets, hang-out spots, and who knows, sauna, meditation hall, zip lines, swimming ponds! Only our creativity limits the possibilities! Infinite!

Besides the building of the property, there will be all sorts of time for other activities. We have two lakes that are great for swimming within 25 minutes walk (10 minute bike ride). There are often people playing music, doing yoga, practicing meditation in the mornings, and creating all sorts of other activities to keep us all learning and growing. I would love for anyone and everyone to feel comfortable enough to offer small "teach-ins." If you know how to draw really well, or play the drums, or sing in Swahili, or carve wood, or maintain sourdough cultures, or anything, it would be great for you to offer a small course in it, so that anyone interested can learn. We have a giant national park next door, so people could go on backpacking trips into the woods! The nights do get cold, so it is perfect for bonfires. And don't forget that we are in Southeast Asia, so there are amazing places to travel. Once again, our only limiting factor is our own imaginations!

Why: Basically, at the core of what we are doing is:

Living in a way that makes the world a better place. The Baan Thai Project hopes to make the world a better place in a number of ways. For the members, it will be a way for us to live much more in alignment with our beliefs (environmental, social, spiritual, enjoyable, etc). For the surrounding people, hopefully it provides a joyful example of another way of living that not only provides all a person needs and more, but in a way that is fun, and aids in the appreciation of life, family, food, and all that is. For the planet? Well, we won't be: watching T.V., shopping at Wal-Mart, eating at McDonalds, or getting road-rage. We will be stewarding our land in a way that leaves it healthier than we found it. For you? Besides a lot of fun and a lot to be learned, my hope is that our land and our project could serve you in any number of ways. Possibly as an opportunity for you to step out of whatever patterns and schedules you are currently living in, and have a space to re-evaluate where you are at, where you are headed, what you are doing, what you are passionate about, and what really makes you deeply happy. (I am in no way saying that this style of life is the answer for you, but I hope that it might provide a loving space for a recontextualization of what is important to you.) It could also just be a chance to really relax (in a sense), or catch up on a bunch of books that you have been meaning to read. I sincerely hope that the Baan Thai Project can be that kind of space for the people around me for a long time to come. You are always welcome (depending on what the future holds for the project, of course)!

Who: Everyone!

We would really like the project to be something that is non-exclusive. As far as I am concerned the founders are the people who made the project happen, but once it is rolling anyone and everyone should benefit from it. As far as I am concerned, as long as a person is adding to, not drawing from, the energy and work achieved on the land, they are welcome.

Some details about coming to Baan Thai.

Cost: The roundtrip airfare to Thailand usually runs between $500- $800 round trip. (Flying. The only way I have ever done it is flying, and here are my tips. Look up your flight on Travelocity. Make sure to use a rangeof possible days to fly. Find the best price you can, and then callLee at Noble Travel in Seattle. This small business is (almost) always able to beat the price (or at least match it), and being that it is a small business (as apposed to Travelocity), it is nice to buy the ticket from them. I talked to her, and she said if you mention my name, she will just cut to the chase and give you the best price possible. Still, if they don't beat your other prices, tell her what they are, and she might be able to do something.

Lee at Noble Travel- 1-877-493-3094 or 206-957-0607

You will usually find China airways, or Asiana to be the cheapest, and
they are both great airlines. Also, if you fly between Dec 15 and Jan
5 you will probably pay more (Dec 25 being the exception).

For traveling in and around Thailand, I usually tell people to budget about $15-$20 a day. That is fairly safe, though you can do much cheaper if you work at it. BUT, once you are on our land the expenses to you are going to be very minimal. Our group originally had the intention of being able to cover the costs of whoever came to help, but because we currently are on our upstart budget and have no current income to the land, we cannot offer this. We ask that everyone contribute to the cost of day to day living. We have figured out that 150 baht ($4.00) a day covers it, that is plenty of food, a place to stay, and so much more. That is only $120 a month! I am convinced that a person could come for three months, or six months even, and spend less than $1500 total, including airfare (that is assuming you travel a little bit, but spend much of your time on the property). I hope to spend the next YEAR in Thailand and spend less than $1500 (besides what I am spending on infrastructure for the project)! If money is a determining factor for you, please talk to me about it, and we will see how we can work with you. And of course those kinds of requests will stay as confidential as you like.

Accommodations: As of right now, there is a “sala” with dorm style accommodations upstairs. There are also a number of tents available. It is a first come first serve situation as far as who gets what. As the months and years go by there will be more and more space in bungalows and huts, allowing visitors to have an indoor space to stay, but as of now that is only a vision! Contact us ahead of time, and we’ll tell you if there is still space available, otherwise, bring a tent.. They have "good enough" quality tents here is Thailand for about $20.

What kind of food: We are cooking all of our own meals, so we have a very eclectic mix of food. We rotate daily chores, so everyone gets an opportunity to be in the kitchen. Right now we have a ton of salad greens coming out of the garden and soon our tomatoes will be ripening. We recently built an adobe oven, so a weekly firing of delicious bread is common. We make our own peanut butter, great salad dressings and an endless array of Nam Prick (Spicy Sauce, Thailand’s answer to salsa).

What about Kids? Bring the Kids!! We appreciate the energy and joy that children bring, and would love to be the village that raises your children, even if just for a short while. I am positive there will be many helping hands around to help take care of the kids, and a ton for the kids to learn!

Please check out our tribe site for the contact info, as well as the directions to the farm. I hope you find yourself wandering down our dirt road. We’ve got rice on the stove and plate set aside for you!

Life is beautiful!

Christian Shearer (a.k.a. Compash)

"Be the change you wish to see in the world."- Ghandi

posted in Thailand - 5 replies

Thai Language Classes in S.F.

BenjaminPatterson — Mon, 04 Dec 2006 19:34:13 GMT

Anyone interested in City Colllege's basic conversational Thai language class? It's on their spring schedule for 13 Monday nights staring Feb. 5, 2007. I tried registering in the fall, but it was dropped because not enough people were enrolled. At $350, I think it's a pretty good deal compared to private lessons.

The details are on the teacher's website here: http://www.geocities.com/Tokyo/Shrine/3635/ccsf.html

posted in Thailand - 24 replies

prostitution in Thailand - your thoughts?

cicadaloca — Sat, 13 Jan 2007 20:19:55 GMT

Okay, so, I hope this post doesn't come across as a self-righteous post from a westerner, but I gotta tell ya, I was quite taken back by the prevalence of the sex industry in Thailand. It's sad and pathetic and disgusts me to no end. Everywhere we visited, from the islands in the south to the highland region in the north, there were a plethora of prostitutes looking for work. Granted, some were gorgeous, I'll give 'em that, even some of the "lady boys," but WTF? I recognize that each individual has her/his own story to tell, and many have little or no choice as they have been sold from impoverished areas by their families as children to help support their families or promised "well-paid" work and a better life. But it's fuckin SAD! I met several guys that at first glance would not appear to need to pay for sex and, in fact, seemed really cool, but a surprising percentage of them were partaking in it. I got the impression that for many of the tourists, the exploitation of women was the main reason why they were in Thailand to begin with! I find it difficult to blame the prostitutes, because like I've stated above, I believe they all have their own life battles, but do you think it's wrong for a man to take advantage of a woman who very likely does not want to be getting fucked and exploited and used as a hole? And yes, I've been to Amsterdam, but prostitution in Thailand seems different to me. It is also illegal in Thailand, although you would never be able to tell as the ladies line up on stools in front of the night clubs so you can take your pick. One night in Chiang Mai we even managed to ditch this nasty dirty old man who has been exploiting this really cool Thai girl that we befriended. She was very clear in stating that she does not want to sell her body, but does not have much of a choice, and that the dirty old man has been coming to visit her for years and she is utterly disgusted by him. Once he was gone we took her away and went out and had a fun night (no hanky panky, obviously!). When the night was over (at 5am!!! Whooo hoo! What a fun night!) she was in tears - she didn't want to say goodbye. I don't have a solution to offer but I think the whole thing is pretty fucked up. I'm interested in your thoughts and/or rebuttals.

posted in Thailand - 8 replies

thai language group in sf, are you in?

leslie — Fri, 09 Feb 2007 00:09:53 GMT

i'd like to move forward getting a language group together for practicing thai.

i live in the city, centrally located near usf, the inner richmond or upper haight.. and have room for 5 or 6 people comfortably in my living room.

i have one friend who's in for it, and would like to get another 3-4 people. i'm thinking a regular weeknight, for 90 minutes or so, casual and fun.

we don't have a teacher yet, but have both started to ask around. I'm thinking we each chip in $10 per class, so the teacher is getting $50-60 for their time. if we need to pay more, then chip in a little more.... and have everyone pay five sessions in advance, so the money is there whether someone shows up or not.

i have a slew of textbooks and language lesson books, as well as my class notes from my two semesters at aua. one of those books has a great blend of conversation, written language and grammar, and would be ideal for our lesson plans.

so... who's interested? please respond here, and also pm me, too.

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

Go see the movie King Narusem parts 1 and 2

Burning-Marcus — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 09:00:41 GMT

A three part Thai film epic based on on their famous past King's adventures. More "Lord of the Rings" then history lesson. It's quite fun and well made. The Monk (Obi Wan Kanobi like) is my favorite character. The Paragon theater is the best movie theater I ever been in. Especially the "Ultra screen."

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

living in thailand?

lauren — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:28:25 GMT

anyone currently living in thailand? i'm in bangkok teaching english, lived here for the past 7 months and love it but don't ever get to meet any cool foreigners or locals for that matter

posted in Thailand - 4 replies

Bangkok accomodations

missroach — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 23:36:04 GMT

Would you experienced lovelies suggest:

* booking ahead of time (at least for the first day or two)

OR

* just going to a hotel-rich area and walking up???

I am leaning towards the first choice as we'll be getting in at 11p.m. or something ridiculous like that.

posted in Thailand - 6 replies

pure veg in thailand

Margot — Sat, 10 Feb 2007 09:03:52 GMT

I hear it's hard to get pure veg food in thailand (no fish, no eggs) and was wondering if this was true. Are there any dishes that do not use fish sauce or that can be requested without fish sauce? Pad thai maybe (is it even called that in thailand?).

How do Thai people generally interpret vegetarianism? Do they generally consider fih as part of a veg diet?

posted in Thailand - 7 replies

thailand-laos-cambodia

nazroff — Sun, 14 Jan 2007 17:28:04 GMT

hi...need some input please ppl....i have only like 10days...will start the trip in chiangmai....then intto laos,and wanna be able to reach angkor wat too....please suggest on ways to go about it..where to go,wat to take?bus,boat,trains,etc
any info wud be great....thanks all :)

posted in Thailand - 5 replies

getting to chiang mae and general travel suggestions

Margot — Sat, 10 Feb 2007 09:00:58 GMT

Some friends and I will head to Thailand for 9 days in April, and I was wondering if you could give us some tips:

First, I really want to go to Chaing Mae (I have a friend working there and the temples intrigue me), and was wondering what the best way to get there was. I have seen return flights to BKK for about 4000 bhat, and would like to find something cheaper. Are there trains running between the two cities, or good bus service, and how long do these options take?

Also, we would like to head to a beach for a few days, preferably not far from BKK. Any suggestions for something peaceful, fun, beautiful, and not too overrun with rich tourists? Backpacker places or off-the-beaten-track suggestions are both welcome! We really need cheap (note that we will be buying our bhat with rupees, not dollars, so the exchange rate is actually somewhat unfavorable for us).

Sorry I have no idea where to begin. I haven't bought a guide book (or even requested the time off from work yet) so even the most basic info would be appreciated!

posted in Thailand - 3 replies

Tips for Thailand

brandonhuston — Fri, 02 Feb 2007 23:32:55 GMT

So these are my "Tips for Thailand" from a first time traveler in the land of smiles.

-TAXiS - The meter is always cheaper. If they quote you a price, turn them down and ask for the meter.

-MONEY CHANGING - Do this at travel agencies and exchange booths, NOT banks. Banks give you a slightly better exchange rate, but they also charge a "commision" to change your money. Bars and restaurants will change money, but will almost always give you the worst rate you will find.

-Carry toilet paper.
-When a bus or a boat says it leaves at 9am, this is the "EARLIEST" that it might leave. Plan ahead, take extra time, plan for delays.
-Bring sunscreen from home, it is much cheaper than in Thailand.
-Just bring one outfit, buy everything else here. You will want to buy clothes anyways, so leave as much room as possible. Really, just wear what you wore on the plane. Buy your sandals here too. Why pay $70 for a pair of Teva's before leaving the states, when you can get imatations in Thailand for a couple of dollars?
-Always travel with a hula hoop, poi, juggling equipment.......bring your TOYS.....the fire poi in Thailand is cheap and crap, bring the good stuff from home. Hoops don't exist for sale in Thailand, but they will when I return!
-Renting a scooter or motorbike is often cheaper than travelling by taxis and allows you more freedom, but be careful.
-The red and yellow ketchup and mustard containers on the tables are NOT ketchup and mustard.
-Bring your cell phone if you want to stay in touch back home for cheap. You can buy a sim card, get a thai number and get the best calling rate available. Cell phones work everywhere, even on those really remote islands, it's crazy.
-When playing with fire toys, be aware that alot of people burn Petrol. Kerosene is widely available, white gas is not.
-You can buy a very light weight sleeping bag/slack on Koh San Road at one of the "We buy everything" stands, you will want one for the cooler parts of Thailand.

In summary, Leave everything at home except your contacts. You can buy it all here, much cheaper, even name brand backpacks that are most likely rip-offs, but loads cheaper!

posted in Thailand - 9 replies

Magic Garden Bungalow Village - Lonely Beach, Koh Chang opens this Monday the 18th

Sat, 16 Dec 2006 06:00:04 GMT

Burner created experience. www.magicgardenthailand.com thanks...Marcus

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

Coming to Thailand

MikeyFisher — Thu, 28 Dec 2006 19:36:06 GMT

Aloha everybody ill be meandering through the land of smiles from Jan. 26th through feb. 22nd. looking for dance music contacts for Chang Mai, Chang Rai, Bangkok, Burma, Laos etc. or even in the southern islands.

would love to run into some brethren and sistren on the journey.

blessings
Mikey

posted in Thailand - 1 reply

Vietnam Tribe?

SINGE — Sun, 04 Feb 2007 20:46:04 GMT

So there is no Vietnam equivalent of this tribe. There so should be, but there inst. So I hope no one minds that I post here sense many of the thailand travelers have probably been to Vietnam too. =]

so yeah I'm headed to Vietnam for a month in about 5 days. Anyone gunna be there? Got any advice, suggestions, thought, comments?

oh yeah and I'm also looking for a good book on the history of Vietnam and the Vietnam war. any suggestions?

THANKS!
Jared

posted in Thailand - 0 replies

for thailand fire peoples

brandonhuston — Fri, 02 Feb 2007 06:02:13 GMT

as a request, now there is a place that you can connect with other fire spinners in Thailand. Check out this tribe http://tribes.tribe.net/thailandfire

There's lots of kerosene available, white gas is very hard to find and beware that lots of Thai's use petrol!
Very hot, very dangerous, very bad for you.

posted in Thailand - 0 replies