Expats In Thailand

How Many Expats Live In Thailand? While the number of foreigners living in Thailand may be easy to calculate numerically, the sense of being in a large European or English speaking community will be determined by where in Thailand you are at any given time. I have lived in several parts of the country (Thailand consists of six regions, covering 512,000 square kilometers), and have seen quite a few others. Expats - that's what they call us, either that or Farang, which means simply 'foreign'. Actually, it more … [Read more...]

Hua Lomphong Railway Station

Hua Lomphong - Work of Art Every time I have occasion to visit Hua Lomphong Station, I'm impressed with its functionality and charm. I've turned up there in recent times only for the purpose of making images. I haven't traveled by train for quite a while. Nor, for that matter have I availed myself of the not-too-expensive airline options to travel. History of Hua Lomphong After six years' construction, the station opened on June 25, 1916. The site of the railway station previously served as the national railway's … [Read more...]

Are You Lonely

Great Soul Singers How did I meet Vermettya Royster, a soul singer the likes of whom you cannot  even fathom?  "Just let go - and let God," She said more than once.  If you don't know Gospel music, I can understand.  Vermettya brought me to South Central to play drums in Church.  It was a scene - and a half.  Vermettya and her young cousin did a Gospel vocal 'duel' which would have blown anyone's mind.  I was recently directed to watch a video of Patti Labelle, who actually studied under Vermettya.  Listen.  … [Read more...]

Where to Buy Gold in Thailand

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Street food in Bangkok

Street Food in Bangkok is world renowned; the quality is at least as high as that of all but the most prestigious restaurants.  Two concerns:  1) how strong is your stomach?, and 2) how hot a temperature can you tolerate eating in? Everyone should enjoy some street food in Bangkok at some point.  Street food is ridiculously inexpensive, and should you choose something like 'Ba-Mee-Nam' (Noodle Soup), you will most certainly not be disappointed. … [Read more...]

Made In Thailand – Carabao

Made in Thailand The 'Johnny Cash' (or Jerry Garcia) of Thailand, Carabao delivers a heartfelt homage to his native land.  Thailand and its populace is always appreciative of the local icons who manage to gain some international notoriety. … [Read more...]

Bar Girl Confessions

The Bar Girl Experience Interestingly, the bar girl story is not always a sad one.  Experiences run the gamut between exhilaration and despondency, and for a bar girl, everything in between. … [Read more...]

Baccara

Baccara Bar Baccara is one of the nicer bars on Soi Cowboy. I had a great time making photographs in the place, and was sorely tempted to take any one of a number of flirtatious girls. I got a few free drinks and was well rewarded for photographing the place. It is worth a visit. The thing about prostitution is: you never really know when you're gonna 'strike gold'. … [Read more...]

Districts of Bangkok

The many districts in the capital of Thailand can be quite confusing if you do not know which center is which. To get a head start, familiarize yourself with the various districts. The city is composed of 12 main areas, namely: District 1 - Siam Square Known as one of the main commercial areas in the metropolis. It is accessible either via public transit, boat, or bus. Many consider this as the shopping district center of choice in Bangkok. District 2 - Sukhumvit This area is where you can definitely find an … [Read more...]

Basic Thai Phrases You Should Know

Being in another country or travelling with a group of foreigners on Caribbean cruises is an exciting experience. One of the reasons that makes your trip worthwhile is you get to learn new things. This could either be as grand as knowing the entire history of your destination or as simple as learning a few phrases of another language. And yet, learning a few basic phrases of the local dialect of your destination can go a long way in making sure that your holiday stays smooth. Indeed, if you are able to … [Read more...]