Massive Floods to Hit Bangkok Soon – Worst Thailand Flooding in Decades

� More than 30 provinces in Thailand are already flooded, with some having been under water, on and off, since July. Now, if the government of Yingluck Shinawatra is correct, in the next day or two it will be Bangkok’s turn. All of Ayuttahaya province, just an hour north of Bangkok, has already been declared [...]  See More..

Where to Eat the Best Burgers in Hua Hin, Thailand

� Famous for its superb Thai restaurants, Hua Hin, Thailand also has a plethora of international food restaurants. For travelers, or those who live in Hua Hin and love a good burger, there are also some wonderful burger joints in the city — surprising to some as Thais don’t usually eat a lot of beef. [...]  See More..

Top Cheap Budget Hotels in Pattaya, Thailand – Rooms Under $25 a Night

� Pattaya, just over an hour south of Bangkok, is Thailand’s most visited beach resort town. One reason so many tourists and Thailand residents stay in Pattaya is the many choices of cheap budget hotels all over the city. With prices as cheap as 450 baht ($14.50) a night, for a comfortable, clean room with [...]  See More..

Should You Tip in Thailand and How Much Is Enough?

� Depending on how long you’ve been in Thailand and what nationality you are has a great deal to do with whether you tip or not. For many people, tipping in Thailand is a subject fraught with confusion and disagreement as, on the whole, tipping for good service isn’t a big part of Thai culture. [...]  See More..

What to Buy at Thai Street Drinks Stalls – Fruit Juice, Coffee, Shakes and More

� � Thailand is one of the hottest countries in the world and Bangkok is the world’s hottest city. So if you don’t keep yourself hydrated, you can get sick. Luckily, there are places to get something to drink in Thailand just about every 10 feet. The best place to buy drinks though in any [...]  See More..

Under $100 a Night at Top Business Hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

� Set to be a main business destination for all of south east Asia, Kuala Lumpur is home to many excellent business hotels that are surprisingly cheap. For corporate travel to Kuala Lumpur, any of these three top KL business hotels will suit any corporate traveler, and make your next business trip a little more [...]  See More..

Best Cheap Youth Hostels in Jakarta, Indonesia – Accommodation Under $20 a Night

� One of the world’s most popular destinations for backpackers and budget travelers, Jakarta, Indonesia also has some of the world’s top youth hostels. A wonderful place to meet fellow travelers from all over the world, get a clean and comfortable bed, good food and even enjoy entertainment, these youth hostels are three of Jakarta’s [...]  See More..

What Do Tourists Need to Know About Flooding in Bangkok and Throughout Thailand

� As the flooding in Thailand gets worse and floods are likely to hit Bangkok in the next few days, if you’re a tourist in Thailand, or planning on arriving soon, what do you need to know about the possible danger of floods? Of course, the situation can change quickly and, if Thailand receives more [...]  See More..

Where Does Ja Turbo Itch? Her Ears, or Somewhere Else? And Is She Really Bad For Thailand?

� One thing I love about living in Thailand is the way the ultra-conservative culture of much of Thai society keeps banging into the modern, more risque culture that’s growing all over the country. As a result, videos, movies, singers and actresses, things and people that manh people wouldn’t bat an eye at in the [...]  See More..

Best Things to See and Do in Phuket, Thailand

� Phuket is an island just off the west coast of Thailand and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It’s around 850 kilometres from Bangkok and is connected to Thailand by only two bridges. It’s the largest Thai island and is famous for its gorgeous beaches, beautiful ocean, amazing diving [...]  See More..

Top Business Hotels in Tokyo, Japan – World-Class Accommodation and Facilities

� Tokyo is the capital of Japan, the world’s third biggest economy. That’s why, when it comes to business travel, Tokyo has more corporate travelers every year than many other international cities combined. Tokyo, too, is known for its world-class hotels and high-tech amenities so, as you can imagine, the city’s business hotels are some [...]  See More..

If You Have Big Breasts in Thailand, What Should You Expect?

� When you have large breasts and you live in a country like America or England, one thing you may not always think about is if you’ll be able to buy clothing (and bras) to fit your big boobs if you ever find yourself in an Asian country. In most European countries, buying clothing for [...]  See More..

Best Cheap Budget Hotels in Khao San Road Area, Bangkok, Thailand

� Several times a month, low budget travelers contact us to find out if we have cheap budget hotel recommendations around the Khao San Road area. The most popular area of Bangkok for low-budget hotels, Khao San Road has some cheap but lovely hotels that are in great locations, and with a variety of decent [...]  See More..

Prathum Thani Under Water – Floods Hours From Outer Bangkok

� It’s incredibly sad watching Thai news in the last few days and seeing all the tens of thousands of people flooded out of their homes in many areas of Thailand. The government says, currently, one third of Thailand is a disaster area and much of it is still under water. Chiang Mai was affected [...]  See More..

Best Cheap Restaurants in Chiang Mai, Thailand

� Chiang Mai is in northern Thailand, an hour and a half plane ride from Bangkok (between 9-12 hours by car, train or bus), and is surrounded by mountains, national parks and rice fields. The air i cleaner in Chiang Mai than in Bangkok, the pace of life is slower, and the people are incredibly [...]  See More..

Nakhon Sawan Under Water After Thai Army Tries to Save It

� � You have to give the Thai army credit for working their butts off to try to stop flooding around the country. In the last few days, a large contingent from the Thai army has been in Nakhon Sawan, erecting sandbag flood barriers in an effort to stop the floods inundating the city. Early [...]  See More..

Please Don’t Get Thailand Travel Advice on Lonely Planet’s Forums

� I just had the misfortune of spending 20 minutes reading the Thorn Tree forums on Lonely Planet’s website. Full of travelers, some of whom have been to Thailand and some of whom have not, most people on them are looking for help. But, with thousands of posts asking about visa issues, insurance problems, advice [...]  See More..

What are the Top Plastic Surgery Procedures for Thai Women in Thailand?

� In recent years, the number of Thai women getting some form of plastic surgery has grown in leaps and bounds. Once the realm of only the wealthy, nowadays even Thai girls working in shops, restaurants, and other unskilled jobs are saving their money for plastic surgery. Of course, like anywhere, Thai women choose all [...]  See More..

What to Do and How to Prepare When it Floods in Thailand

� One thing newcomers to Thailand are often surprised by is how often it rains during rainy season, which lasts six months of the year, and how fast Thailand’s streets and freeways flood. Flooding in Thailand, when it rains, is normal and happens within minutes of the rain starting. Since July this year, the flooding [...]  See More..

Outskirts of Bangkok May Be Evacuated Due to Possible Floods

� Thai TV news is reporting some areas in the outskirts of Bangkok may be evacuated in the next couple of days due to fears of rising flood waters and possible flooding. The concern is due to the high tide from the ocean, which will happen between 16-18th October. That will cause the level of [...]  See More..

How to Take the Bangkok Tourist Boat and What to See From Each Pier

� A wonderful way to see Bangkok is to take the Tourist Express Boat on the Chao Praya River. The Chao Praya River runs the length of Bangkok and, unlike roads where traffic is terrible, there’s never a traffic jam on the river, so it’s easy to get around.It’s also a wonderful place to check [...]  See More..

Doi Chaang Coffeehouse at Central Ladprao, Bangkok, Thailand – Best Independent Thai Coffee Chain (Video)

� A few days ago, I made my second trip to the newly renovated Central Ladprao mall in Bangkok, Thailand. After a few hours of shopping, a Thai friend and I stumbled upon a new branch of Doi Chaang coffee in the basement of the mall. Beautifully designed, with comfortable chairs and incredible coffee and [...]  See More..

Beard Papa’s at Central Ladprao, Bangkok, Thailand – Creme Puffs and Chocolate Bombs – Yum!

� On a shopping trip to Central Ladprao mall in northern Bangkok, Thailand this week, a Thai friend and I took a break from spending money and ate dessert at a Japanese cream puff shop called Beard Papa’s.  Fascinated by the fact it should be ‘Papa’s Beard’ (this is what happens when something is translated [...]  See More..

Want to Make Some Quick Money? Catch Crocodiles in Ayutthaya

� Over a week since more than 100 crocodiles escaped from their flooded crocodile farms in Ayutthaya, Thai authorities are worried. Few have been caught and several have been seen lurking about in the waters of the flooded town.  The Public Health Minister says it’s important these crocodiles are caught soon, before they inflict injuries [...]  See More..

Bangkok Will Not Flood, The City is Safe, Thai Government Officials Say

� � In some of the first good news Thailand has had in a couple of weeks, it was announced last night Bangkok will not flood — the city is safe. The capital was expected to flood over the weekend, or on Monday or Tuesday, as run-off water from the massive floods in the north [...]  See More..

Chou Nan at Central Ladprao – Bangkok’s Best Japanese Rice Bowls?

� For the last six months Central Ladprao, one of Bangkok’s largest shopping malls, was closed for renovations. It re-opened in September and, to my amazement, was absolutely full of restaurants it didn’t have before. One of them is the traditional Japanese rice bowl restaurant, Chou Nan; a restaurant I’d seen recently at Siam Paragon, [...]  See More..

Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Bangkok, Thailand – Your Children Will Love Eating Here

� Thais love children. That’s why, unlike many countries in the west where children are expected to be ‘seen and not heard’, eating out at restaurants in a world-class city like Bangkok, with kids, is usually easy. Many restaurants in Bangkok cater to kids but, with so many child-friendly restaurants to choose from, which ones [...]  See More..

Cost of Thailand Floods Expected to be Close to $5 Billion

� As massive floods have deluged more than one third of the country, the Thai commerce department announced yesterday the total cost to Thailand of the flooding is likely to be close to $5 billion. Industries affected include the food industry, tourism, farming and manufacturing. With more than 10 industrial estates now shut, due to [...]  See More..

Hachiban Closes Many of Its Thailand Restaurants Due to Floods and Supply Problems

� Even though floods in Thailand have not hit Bangkok, thousands of Thai businesses in the capital are still experiencing the impact of the floods. With much of the north of the country flooded, supply lines are affected, so much so,  a number of Bangkok-based restaurants have had to temporarily close their doors. Hachiban, the [...]  See More..

Mama Noodle Shortage in Thailand Due to Floods

� Since Thailand’s massive flooding problem suddenly became much worse two weeks ago, there’s been a rush on dried goods at the supermarket, as well as anything in cans, tins or freezers.  With flood waters now lapping at the borders of Bangkok, it’s not surprising many food stuffs in Bangkok, and nationwide, are now scare. [...]  See More..

Thai Economy Will Plummet After Floods – 14,172 Factories Flooded

� Although the Thai government is trying to put a brave face on it, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see the Thai economy could be in major trouble, even after the current flooding situation is over.  14,172 factories in Thailand are currently under water, and more are expected to be flooded in the [...]  See More..

Can You Believe Thai Government Information About Flooding? No, You Can’t

� A subject many foreigners have been commenting on over the last couple of weeks has finally hit the Thai newspapers and TV stations. The fact that you can’t believe anything any Thai government official says about what’s really happening with Thailand’s devastating floods. One says one thing, one says another, but most are not [...]  See More..

Best Hotels on Karon and Kata Beach, Phuket, Thailand

� One of the best parts of Phuket Island to visit is the Karon and Kata Beach area. These two beautiful, small beaches are next to each other and, not only is there a lot to do, but they have some of Phuket’s best hotels too. Hotels to Stay At in Karon Beach Baan Karon [...]  See More..

Future Park Mall Rangsit Closes After Floods Reach Northern Bangkok

� As some members of the Thai government and the Bangkok governor continue to say “Bangkok is safe”, word out is that Future Park Rangsit Mall has just closed, after flooding on Pahonyothin, right in front of the mall, has already reached 30 centimetres. Future Park Rangsit is only about 8 miles north of my [...]  See More..

Floods Arrive in Northern Bangkok Suburbs – City May Flood in Next Two Days

� On the news in Thailand over the last week, the Thai government has said over and over Bangkok will not flood. But, Thai newspapers in the last hour are reporting one of Bangkok’s largest shopping malls, Future Park Rangsit in northern Bangkok, has just had to close as flood waters are now at 30 [...]  See More..

Bangkok Will Flood in Next 24-48 Hours as Waters Released and Diverted into Ocean

� The Thai government of Yingluck Shinawatra has finally admitted the flooding of certain areas of Bangkok is inevitable. Eastern parts of the city will be flooded in the next couple of days, as the government has no choice but to release a build up of flood waters that’s flowed down from the northern part [...]  See More..

Why Yingluck Shinawatra’s Government Is Correct in Ordering Flooding of Eastern Bangkok

� With water continuing to head into Bangkok from norther provinces already under massive flooding, Thai prime minister, Yingluck Shinawatra, has had to make what some would say is an almost impossible decision. Does she let the water take it’s natural course, in effect flooding most of central Bangkok. Or, does she choose an area [...]  See More..

Thailand’s Portable Floating Flood Toilets – Even When the Water’s Coming You Still Might Need a Bathroom

� I’ve always loved the ingenuity of the Thais. A race that seems to be able to make beautiful things out of practically nothing, the latest invention is the Thai Flood Toilet. Using just a typical Thai plastic stool, Thai students from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Architecture are roping in volunteers to help them make [...]  See More..

Flood Water Arriving in Bangkok as Government Opens Flood Gates

� The moment everyone in Bangkok has been worrying about for weeks has arrived.  Thai news is reporting flood waters have officially arrived in Bangkok as the government-ordered opening of the flood gates occurred a few hours ago.  The water level in several klongs (canals) has risen and reports say water on Pahonyothin Road in [...]  See More..

Top 5 Must Do Things and Must Visit Places in Guangzhou, China

� Guangzhou is China’s third largest city and, at almost 2,000 years old, one of China’s oldest cities too. In Guangzhou, you’ll find a wonderful mix of ancient temples, architecture, Chinese culture and history side by side with a rapidly forward-moving Chinese metropolis. History buffs will love Guangzhou and its museums, temples, cathedrals and pagodas [...]  See More..

As Bangkok’s Floods Near, the Great Bangkok Car Shuffle Begins

� When Thais began to realize, a few days ago, floods would definitely be arriving in Bangkok, for many of them the first thing they thought about was their car. For most Thais, cars are bought with car loans and many pay high monthly car payments they can barely afford. So, when something like a [...]  See More..

Thammasat University in Rangsit, Bangkok Under Water

� According to Thai TV news, Thammasat University, the Rangsit campus, is starting to flood. Thammasat is close to the Chao Praya River with most other communities the full length of both sides of the river also expected to flood.  As of 4:45pm, Thammasat University was under about 25 centimeters, around 10 inches, but water [...]  See More..

Thai Water Expert Says Thonburi Will Flood

� According to a Thai water expert, Dr Seri Suprathit of Rangsit University, so much water is beginning to arrive on the western side of the Chao Praya River, Thonburi, Thailand’s former capital will flood. Dr. Suprathit said flooding could be as high as two meters in some areas. Thonburi was Thailand’s capital city from [...]  See More..

Which Tourist Areas in Thailand are Not Affected by the Floods?

� If you’re a tourist and worried about an upcoming trip to Thailand because of the country’s massive floods, don’t be. Other than Ayutthaya, most other areas of the country most-travelled to by tourists are unaffected by the floods and Bangkok, although affected in the far northern suburbs, is still unaffected around most tourist areas. [...]  See More..

Want Bigger Boobs? Come to Thailand and Pay to Get Your Breasts Slapped

� Thailand, long known for its inexpensive world-class plastic surgery is now hitting the world news again, this time as a place where you can get bigger boobs — if you don’t mind getting them slapped, that is. In Bangkok, a beauty salon practices breast slapping (and butt slapping) as a way to get bigger [...]  See More..

Living in Limbo in Bangkok – Waiting for the Floods

� To say that living in Bangkok at the moment is odd is an understatement. While the north of the country has been sitting under massive floods for weeks now, and the northern suburbs of Bangkok got hit with them on Friday, most of the rest of Bangkok is still operating as normal. But, living [...]  See More..

Best Chiang Mai Coffee Houses and Cafes with Free Wi-Fi Internet

� For many tourists in Chiang Mai, while they want a relaxing and fun holiday, they also want access to free Wi-Fi internet, to check e-mails and surf the net and, sometimes, even for business. Luckily, Chiang Mai has hundreds of wonderful cafes and coffee houses, many of which offer free Wi-Fi internet. On your [...]  See More..

Bangkok Flood News Filled With Gossip, Panic and Lies – Difficult to Find the Truth

� � Getting any actual fact about the flooding in Bangkok and where it might end up next is practically impossible. Instead of like in the west, where a central body would be charged with releasing news it seems, in Bangkok, anyone can release news about flooding, whether it’s happening or not. So, you get [...]  See More..

Thai News Media Doing Terrible Job Informing Non-Thais About Flooding

� As news about Bangkok’s flooding situation is worsening, if you’re not Thai and don’t speak, read or write Thai, getting accurate information from Thailand’s news media is pretty much nigh on impossible. While the Bangkok Post and Nation newspapers at least have some information, albeit often out-of-date, reactionary or just plain incorrect, if you [...]  See More..

Which Buses Should You Take to Get to Bangkok’s Best Shopping Malls?

� Many visitors to Bangkok, Thailand would love to take one of the city’s thousands of buses when they go shopping but, as most destinations are written on the buses in Thai, if they don’t know the bus numbers, it seems impossible. Actually, taking a bus to one of Bangkok’s best shopping malls is easy [...]  See More..

What Will Happen in Bangkok Floods if Worst-Case Scenario Occurs?

� As Bangkok continues to swirl with rumor and panic and water continues to arrive near the city from the north, a Thai water expert, Dr Seri Suprathit, has given more details if the worst-case scenario happens and Bangkok is completely flooded.  And honestly, for most of us, it’s not as bad as you’d expect. [...]  See More..

How to Find Out if Your House is Under Water in Bangkok? Is My House Flooded Can Help You

� If you’re away from Bangkok and worried about your house, or have friends in the city and want to know if they’re under water or not, there’s a handy website that can tell you. All you need to know is the zipcode of the house and the website ‘Is My House Flooded’ will tell [...]  See More..

Don Mueang Airport Closes Due to Floods – Nok Air Suspends Service, Orient Thai Moves to Suvarnabhumi

� Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport has finally given up the ghost. After struggling since Friday to remain open and to keep flights up in the air, the airport has finally announced it just can’t do it anymore and closed at 7pm tonight. Don Mueang Airport has been under some water since Friday, in Bangkok’s worst [...]  See More..

How to Lay Sandbags in Bangkok’s Floods – Your House Will Flood If You Don’t Do It Correctly

� I’m fascinated by the use of sandbags in Bangkok, sandbags that are used in an attempt to stop floods reaching into houses and other buildings.  In just about every area sandbags are being used, they’re just not working, with flood waters appearing in the building they’re trying to protect within just a few hours. [...]  See More..

Roadhouse Barbecue in Bangkok, Thailand – Awesome American-Style Barbecue

� If you’re an American in Bangkok, Thailand and desperate for some real downhome cooking, you can’t go wrong with Roadhouse Barbecue. One of the largest barbecue restaurants I’ve ever seen (it’s three storeys), sure, it’s weird it’s located in Bangkok but, when you taste the incredible burgers, barbecued ribs, steaks, pulled pork sandwiches and [...]  See More..

Dory Seafood by Chomtalay Hua Hin – One of Terminal 21′s Best Restaurants

� This week, I went with a Thai friend to Terminal 21, Bangkok’s new, and massive, lifestyle mall. Packed full of restaurants, we stumbled on a Thai fusion restaurant called Dory Seafood by Chomtalay Hua Hin. Empty except for just one couple, we still decided to try it as it was one of the prettiest [...]  See More..

No Statement From Thai Government About Overstay Fines For Foreigners Stuck in Floods

� As foreigners in Thailand, yes, we are aware the Thai government has more than their hands full in Thailand’s floods, with new problems popping up every hour and, yes, we do sympathize.  However, the Thai government has not yet made any statement about cancelling overstay fines for foreigners who  either can’t get to immigration [...]  See More..

Are All 50 Districts in Bangkok Going to Flood? Don’t Believe Irresponsible Website Owners

� THURSDAY – 9:15 am – October27th, 2011 – Bangkok � Don’t believe all the shock headlines on websites all over Thailand. When you read “BREAKING NEWS: All 50 Districts in Bangkok Going to Flood”, it’s not true. Just a pathetic and irresponsible website owner trying to get page views. The situation on Bangkok’s flooding [...]  See More..

Is the Airport in Bangkok Open in the Floods? Yes, Suvarnabhumi is Open

� Bangkok – October 27th, 2011 – 9:55am � Foreign news media seem to be getting confused, as a number are reporting “The Bangkok airport is closed”. That’s not true. The city’s second airport, Don Mueang, which is just used by a couple of airlines, has been closed until further notice due to flooding, but [...]  See More..

Twitter Tweets Causing Panic in Bangkok Floods – Stop Being So Irresponsible

#ThaiFloodEng � While Twitter can be used for good, unfortunately in the case of Bangkok’s current flooding situation, in many cases Twitter is doing nothing but causing more panic, as idiots, who think it’s fun to spread every rumour about ‘floods’ in Bangkok, tweet lies, with little regard for how it may affect other people. [...]  See More..

The Royal Chitralada Project Fruit Drinks – Delicious and Inexpensive Canned Drinks

� A few years ago, when I was still teaching in Bangkok, I was lucky to be able to go with my school on a school trip to Chitralada Palace, the home of the His Majesty the King of Thailand.  While obviously not allowed to enter the palace, our school groups were given a wonderful [...]  See More..

Floods Receding in Northern Bangkok? In Some Areas, Definitely

� In the last few hours, the Bangkok Post and several other sources are reporting that areas of northern Bangkok that were beginning to flood more yesterday are already receding.  The flood water that had been slowly heading towards Lak Si on Vibhavadi yesterday morning is less and hasn’t moved any further down the road.  [...]  See More..

South-Bound Trains From Bangkok Cancelled Due to Floods, Roads Out of Bangkok Slow-Moving

� � While Thai authorities have continued to say travel to the south from Bangkok will be unaffected by the floods, it seems that’s not necessarily true. The SRT (State Railway of Thailand) has announced all trains from Bangkok going south have been cancelled as from 6pm this evening, due to almost 50 centimetres of [...]  See More..

Chatuchak Weekend Market Closed October 28th-30th, 2011

� If you were planning on doing a bit of cheap shopping at Chatuchak Weekend Market this weekend, unfortunately you’re out of luck. The market will be closed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (28th-30th of October) due to possible flooding. It’s also a long weekend, and many Thais are leaving town, afraid they’ll be flooded [...]  See More..

95% of Bangkok Still Flood Free – No Water in Most of the City

� If you watch the news, Thai or international, you can be forgiven if you think most of Bangkok is now under water. It’s not true. While the Thai news media is showing nothing but fast-moving floods in Bangkok streets, and CNN and the BBC would have you believe places like the Grand Palace are [...]  See More..

Westerners Terrified in Bangkok Floods Making Oceans out of Cups of Water on Twitter

� You have to laugh when you read the Twitter posts from some westerners in Bangkok. They’re tweeting and retweeting every rumour they hear about the latest floods in Bangkok (most of which are not true) and desperately trying to figure out if they should leave. A group also think it’s funny to post ridiculous [...]  See More..

Eat at Prachak Restaurant on Charoen Krung in Bangkok – Selling Noodles Since 1897

� One of the most famous noodle restaurants in Bangkok, Thailand, if you’re a resident, is Prachak. Prachak is a Thai restaurant known for its authentic Thai noodles — noodles that have been served by various generations of the same family for more than 100 years. After nine years living in Bangkok, I finally ate [...]  See More..

The Duke’s at The Emporium, Bangkok – Excellent Burgers, Yummy Pizza

� Although Bangkok has thousands of restaurants where you can buy burgers, pizza and ribs, if you’re looking for an authentic, American-style gourmet burger, pizza or barbecued ribs, they’re few and far between. That’s why, if you’re an American-style food lover, a vist to The Duke’s is a must. Located at The Emporium mall on [...]  See More..

Bangkok’s “Special Flood Holidays” Should Not Be Extended

� The Thai government of Yingluck Shinawatra is apparently considering extending the “special flood holidays” in Bangkok, which were initally meant to run from Thursday until this Monday (October 31st), for a few more days.  Which seems a little odd, particularly as high tide ends on Monday and, as inner Bangkok still isn’t flooding (except [...]  See More..

Would Someone Please Teach Thais What “Inundated” Means in Bangkok’s Floods?

� Over the last few days, every time I read yet one more Thai newspaper article about a new area of Bangkok being “inundated” with flood waters, I just roll my eyes and go back to what I was doing. Apparently, most Thais in the news media haven’t figured out that, if there are four [...]  See More..

Is TV and Newspaper Reporting About Bangkok Floods Accurate? Of Course, Not

� If you read Twitter, you realize quickly most people believe everything they see on TV and read in the newspapers about the floods in Bangkok. So much so that, some of them, even when the evidence is obviously to the contrary, they’ll still keep spreading the incorrect information, publishing blog posts about it, and [...]  See More..

Top Things to See in Samut Prakan, Thailand

� If you prefer to see the real Thailand, and not one of thousands of tourist traps, then why not visit Samut Prakan, one of Thailand’s 76 provinces, and also its second largest city? Just an hour drive from Bangkok, Samut Prakan was founded during the Ayutthaya period, so is also one of the country’s [...]  See More..

Thank You BBC’s Karishma Vaswani For Honest Reporting About Floods in Bangkok Center

� In the days of pretty abysmal reporting about Bangkok’s floods from so many sources, including organizations like the BBC and CNN who sometimes don’t seem to know where some areas of Bangkok actually are, it was refreshing to hear BBC reporter Karishma Vaswani reporting from Bangkok this morning. When the news anchor, in his [...]  See More..

Top Things to See and Do in Phitsanulok, Thailand

� Phitsanulok is a southern Thai city that’s been around for more than 600 years old. It’s historically important as it was the birthplace of King Naresuan, as well as once the capital city of Thailand, so it offers interesting historical sights as well as modern day attractions. To get to Phitsanulok, you can take [...]  See More..

How to Clean Your House Safely After Flooding in Bangkok, Thailand

� As the flood waters in Bangkok, and elsewhere in Thailand, recede millions of people will be left with mounds of stinking mud, lots of garbage, hazardous chemicals, dead animals and, of course, houses that have, in some cases, spent weeks under two meters of water. That’s why you need to know how to clean [...]  See More..

Trains North to Chiang Mai and Some South Trains Resume Service During Bangkok Floods

� Good news for tourists planning on taking the train north to Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, or down south to get to southern Thai cities, Thai islands or on into Malaysia.  Also good news for those Thais who want to get back home to family in the north or south, or just away from [...]  See More..

Free EFL/ESL Lesson Plan: Teach English Numbers Using Games

� At a TEFL conference several years ago, I read several studies showing teaching EFL (English as a Foreign Language) to students of any age is even more effective if done through games. Since then, I’ve incorporated games into most of my classes and seen a big difference in my students’ attention in class and [...]  See More..

Thai Army Doing Amazing Job During Thailand’s Floods

� � Up until recently, Thailand’s military has had a bad reputation.  Decades of more illegal coups than about 100 countries put together, shooting of unarmed citizens in Bangkok’s anti-government red shirt protests last year, a general public opinion that you can’t trust high-up military officials, and on and on. But, during these 2011 Bangkok [...]  See More..

Top Things to See and Do in Hat Yai, Thailand

� Hat Yai is one of Thailand’s southernmost cities and Thailand’s fourth largest city. With around 160,000 people in the city itself and over 800,000 in the surrounding area, Hat Yai has many more fun things to see and do than you might expect. A top destination for Malaysian and Singaporean tourists, for westerners Hat [...]  See More..

Audrey Cafe and Bistro in Bangkok, Thailand – Beautiful Restaurant, Average Food, Pricey

� Audrey Cafe and Bistro is the latest “in place” to see and be seen in Bangkok, Thailand. One of the largest restaurants I’ve ever been to in Bangkok (it’s massive), Audrey Cafe and Bistro is also a stunningly beautiful coffeehouse and luncheon place during the day and a cool, trendy (and absolutely packed) bistro [...]  See More..

NYCC New York Cheesecake at Crystal Design Center – Bangkok’s Best Cheescake – Really

� On a trip to Bangkok, Thailand’s Crystal Design Center, don’t miss NYCC New York Cheesecake. A stand-alone restaurant that’s cutely designed, if nothing else the large Statue of Liberty by the door will draw your eye. But, once you enter, scan their nice selection of sandwiches and cakes, and then partake of a couple, [...]  See More..

Shop at Lee Gardens Plaza, Hat Yai’s Biggest Shopping Venue

� Hat Yai, in southern Thailand, is the country’s fourth largest city. In Thailand, that doesn’t mean much as, with only 155,000 people, Hat Yai would barely register on the map in many other countries. But, as the south’s largest city, Hat Yai is where hundreds of thousands of people every month come to shop, [...]  See More..

Eat at Pier 21 at Terminal 21 – Bangkok’s Newest and Best Food Court

� As a fan of food courts in Bangkok, Thailand, I’ve always enjoyed eating at them but, today, I discovered my dream food court – the Bangkok food court I will now choose above all others. Pier 21 at Terminal 21, Bangkok’s newest shopping mall. It’s only been open for a few weeks, there’s a [...]  See More..

Is it Safe to Travel to Bangkok During Floods? Yes, and Here’s Why

� Thailand is going through its worst flooding in almost a century, if not ever. More than one third of the country is currently under water (yes, one third) and some northern suburbs of Bangkok are now under 1-2 meters of flood water. Millions of cubic feet of water is making its way from Ayutthaya [...]  See More..

Din Tai Fung – Taiwan’s Famous Dim Sum Now at Central World Plaza, Bangkok

� Din Tai Fung at Central World Plaza shopping mall in downtown Bangkok is one of the city’s latest imports. A Taiwanese chain of dumpling restaurants, originally from Taipei but famous all over Asia, Din Tai Fung has captured the imagination of Thais, many of whom you’ll see on any evening lined up outside this [...]  See More..

Bangkok Burger Company – Best Unusual Gourmet Burgers in Bangkok, Thailand

� Usually, as I live in Bangkok, Thailand where, with all the delicious Thai food, burgers are the last thing I think about eating, I eat a burger maybe twice a year. This month, I’ve eaten at five burger joints, with my latest stop at Bangkok Burger Company.  Bangkok Burger Company is one of the [...]  See More..

Things You Must See and Do in Trang, Thailand

� Although world-famous for its underwater wedding ceremonies, where couples tie the knot while diving underwater, Trang has many other fun things to see and do. Once a tourist destination for mainly Thai tourists, in recent years foreigners are discovering Trang and loving what they find. With beautiful beaches, trekking, birdwatching, golfing, ancient temples, great [...]  See More..

If You Want Lies About Bangkok’s Floods Read “The Nation”

� Not for nothing is “The Nation” newspaper known as Thailand’s worst English language newspaper. Full of poorly written articles by “journalists” who wouldn’t know how to write a real news article if a western journalist stood in front of them and dictated every word, to say that what comes out in The Nation isn’t [...]  See More..

Discrimination Against Westerners and Other Foreigners Alive and Well in Thailand

� In Thailand, Westerners (known as ‘farangs’) are discriminated against. Thais move to the USA and are given the same rights and opportunities as everyone else living in America. Unfortunately, in Thailand, the same is not true for Westerners. In jobs, in work permits, in obtaining mortgages and car loans, in buying houses, in buying [...]  See More..

Major Ratchayothin NOT Flooding, Pahonyothin Only 10 Centimeters of Water on Two Blocks – Don’t Believe Twitter Twits

� After reading tweets on Twitter from farangs and hi-so Thais panicking about “floods”  all the way up Pahonyothin Road from Kaset Sart University, now hitting Major Ratchayothin Mall, and reading similiar reports on Bangkok Post and The Nation (when will these pathetic excuses for newspapers check facts before publishing?) I had to check it out [...]  See More..

Why Thai English-Language Newspaper Coverage of Bangkok Floods Has Been So Terrible

� When you live in a developed country, you don’t realize how good the news coverage is until you live somewhere like Thailand. Thailand has few English-language newspapers,  and none of them are worth much when it comes to the accurate reporting of news. Dismal at the best of times, during the Bangkok floods however, [...]  See More..

What to Do at Suan Rot Fai, Bangkok’s Railway Park

� I live in northern Bangkok, Thailand, just a mile away from the city’s famous Suan Rot Fai. Suan Rot Fai, or The Railway Park in English, is a massive park right in the middle of a busy area of Bangkok but surrounded by so much greenery, you’d hardly ever know. It has a three-kilometer [...]  See More..

Are Bangkok Floods Affecting Yingluck Shinawatra’s Popularity? You Might Be Surprised

� If you read the Bangkok Post, The Nation, Twitter or any of the other English-language media in Thailand you might think, from the articles and comments, since floods hit Bangkok, prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s popularity was on the decline. In real life though, if you ask the average Thai who voted for her (mostly [...]  See More..

FROC Finally Releases Statement for Foreigners in Thailand During Floods, But Govt Still Charges 500 Baht Overstay Fine

� While it’s nice that Prof. Tongthong Chandransu, FROC spokesperson, finally addressed the issue of foreigners dealing with floods in Thailand (several months after this started to affect foreigners living in various areas of Thailand), the Thai government has still not made a statement about the daily 500 baht overstay fine being waived for foreignersunable [...]  See More..

Top 5 Must See and Do Things in Xi’an, China

� Once the capital city of China, Xi’an is one of China’s oldest cities, ando famous for being the home of the Terracotta Warriors.  But Xi’an is also home to ancient pagodas and temples, a fascinating old city wall, a world-class underground rock music scene and one of the largest underground museums in the world. [...]  See More..

Major Ratchayothin (Pahonyothin-Ratchadapisek) Intersection Flooded – Yes, NOW We’re Flooding – Knee Deep

� I took a stroll down my soi this morning to take photographs at the intersection of Pahonyothin and Ratchadapisek intersection in Bangkok, (our soi is two blocks away from the intersection) as we’d heard it was completely flooded and that flood waters would be in our soi within the next few hours. Oddly, even [...]  See More..

Why You May Gain Weight If You Spend a Lot of Time in a Hot Country

� When I moved to Bangkok, Thailand, 10 years ago, I gained weight quickly and there were five very good reasons why. At the time, when it first began happening, I couldn’t believe it as, living in the US, I’d managed to stay fit and thin for years. But six months in Bangkok and I’d [...]  See More..

Which Tourist Attractions in Bangkok are Closed Due to Floods?

� If you’re a tourist in Bangkok, or soon going to be, and you’re worried about all the tourist attractions being closed, don’t be. Long-time Bangkok resident, Richard Barrow, has put together a map showing many of the Bangkok tourist attractions that are closed because of the floods.  Plus, knowing Richard, he’ll be updating it [...]  See More..

Floods at Central Ladprao-Pahonyothin-Ladprao Intersection, Bangkok – November 4th, 2011

� When I woke up this morning my entire soi was flooded. Not remotely unexpected, as I’d seen the flood waters coming our way yesterday, by the time I headed out at 10am the water in my soi was at my knees and, once out on Pahonyothin Road walking towards Central Ladprao, flooded areas were [...]  See More..

Best Singapore Business Hotels – Conference Rooms, Banquet Halls and Client Entertainment

� Singapore is one of the most-visited Asian destinations for a business trip. Modern and with world-class business hotels offering all the mod-cons and facilities, any business man or woman will have a wonderful business trip in Singapore. If you’re planning a business trip to Singapore and are looking for a hotel, check out these [...]  See More..

Where You Can buy English Books, Newspapers and Magazines in China

� Unlike many other countries in Asia, finding English newspapers, books and magazines in China isn’t always as easy. Sure, for English news, you can get access to the internet in most towns and cities in China but much of it is censored and blocked. So, if you’re looking for English newspapers, magazines and books [...]  See More..

Northern Bangkok Flood Photographs – Pahonyothin-Ratchada-Central Ladprao Area

� On my walk down my soi and to Central Ladprao yesterday, I took some photographs just to document the flooding around the Pahonyothin-Central Ladprao-Ratchadapisek area of northern Bangkok. As you’ll see, starting out at almost knee deep at my soi, in some areas of Pahonyothin it was soon at mid-thigh level and, at one [...]  See More..

Bangkok House of Yingluck Shinawatra, Thai Prime Minister, Begins To Flood

� In a purely symbolic moment, Thai news is just reporting the Bangkok house of Thai prime minister, Yingluck Shinawatra, is begining to flood. Flood water is pouring into the grounds of the house through the drainage system, which means, if it cannot be stopped,  Yingluck’s house is likely to be a couple of feet [...]  See More..

When Will Inner Bangkok (CBD) Be Hit With Flood Waters?

� Even though the Thai government and many other officials have said over and over that inner Bangkok won’t be flooded, it now looks like it’s official. It will.  Dr. Seri Suprathit, the only Thai water expert anyone is listening to any more, says the Sukhumvit area is right on target to be hit by [...]  See More..

Best Fun Things to Do With Kids in Hua Hin, Thailand

� Hua Hin, just three hours south of Bangkok, is Thailand’s most popular beach resort. Stuffed full of cafes, restaurants, bars and shops, it’s also a great place for a vacation with the kids. It’s laid-back, friendly, extremely safe, and has so many fun things to see and do, after your holiday your kids will [...]  See More..

Bangkok’s Doll Museum is Wonderful for Kids and Adults

� Bangkok’s Doll Museum was founded more than 55 years ago when Khunying Tongkorn Chandavimol, a doll maker in her own right, decided to start her own museum. She stocked the museum with traditional Thai dancer dolls, historical and literary figure dolls, and hill-tribe andThai peasant figures, some of which she made herself, others that [...]  See More..

How to Interview for an EFL English Teaching Position in Thailand and Get the Job

� Thousands of westerners move to Thailand every year to teach English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Some are prepared for job interviewing for an EFL teaching job and some aren’t. Going for an interview for an EFL teaching job in Thailand is different than interviewing in other places, but these tips will help you [...]  See More..

More Public Holidays in Bangkok, November 9-11, 2011 as Flood Waters Rise?

My soi under 60 centimeters of water this evening – we flooded three days ago � Looks like we may have another round of public holidays due to Bangkok’s floods, after government ministers are curently debating on whether to declare November 9th thru 11th as public holidays as flooding in Bangkok worsens. Floods continue to [...]  See More..

If You Love Italian Food You Must Eat at PizzaZo in Bangkok, Thailand?

� Although Bangkok, Thailand has many superb restaurants, there are few Italian restaurants in the group. That’s why, when a new one opens, I’m one of the first to try them out, as Italian is my second-favorite cuisine after Thai. Earlier this year, PizzaZo, a new restaurant, opened in downtown Bangkok and, imagine my surprise [...]  See More..

Which Areas of Bangkok are Currently Flooded? (As of November 8, 2011)

� If you’re in Bangkok or planning on coming here and you’re concerned about which areas of Bangkok are currently flooded, this handy Bangkok Post map can help. Most of the north of the city is already underwater (Rangsit, Don Mueang, Chang Wattana, Pahonyothin-Ratchadapisek (north), Chatuchak and Din Daeng, to name just a few. The [...]  See More..

What Happens When Your Bus Breaks Down in Bangkok’s Floods? (Photo)

� In most western countries, if people had to deal with a massive flood like Bangkok, Thailand is currently coping with, everything would come to a standstill. But not in Bangkok. People still wade through flood water to get to work every day, shops open even though the water is almost to the top of [...]  See More..

How Do People Get Around Bangkok During Floods? Bus, Boat, Tractor?… (Photos)

With much of Bangkok under massive floods, the area around by my apartment building (near the Elephant Building on Pahonyothin) is under around 2 feet of water. When it floods that much, it’s not always possible to walk  in Bangkok(although people still are) but it’s amazing how people still manage to get around – by [...]  See More..

Driving Through Flood Waters from Vibhavadi to Major Ratchayothin in Bangkok, November 8th, 2011 (Video)

� The maintenance man from my apartment building drove us from the Elephant Building on Pahonyothin, near Major Ratchayothin, to Saphan Kwai today, to go shopping at Big C supermarket. The flood waters were unbelievable, up more than 25 centimeters since I walked on the same road only three days ago. In some spots, it [...]  See More..

What’s It Like Living in Flooded Bangkok? We’re Under 2 Feet of Water

� Bangkok, Thailand has been inundated with flood water for three weeks. Hundreds of millions of cubic feet are already in the city, with two times more water than we already have still flowing down towards the capital from the north’s already flooded provinces. Twenty five percent of Bangkok is now under water, with many [...]  See More..

Is All of Bangkok Going to Flood? Yes, It Looks Likely

� Although, of course, I’m no water expert I do know how to read and, thank heavens, was taught to have common sense. So, while no-one can really tell you for sure if all of Bangkok is going to be flooded, to many of us who live here, wade through the flood water every day, [...]  See More..

Where are the Best Malaysian Restaurants in Bangkok, Thailand?

� Strangely, to say Malaysia is the country next to Thailand, Bangkok doesn’t have a huge number of Malaysian restaurants but, what it does have are wonderful. These are three of the best. Kopitiam – A small chain of Malaysian coffee shops, Kopitiam now has three locations in Bangkok. They’re famous for their bread and [...]  See More..

BonChon Chicken at Seenspace in Bangkok – The City’s Best Chicken? You Decide

� Thais love fried chicken and it’s sold all over Bangkok, from low-cost street stalls to high-end restaurants. But, Thailand’s lastest chicken venture, BonChon Chicken has taken even Bangkok’s jaded fried chicken eaters by storm. So much so, I now have several Thai friends that, if they want fried chicken, BonChon Chicken is the only [...]  See More..

Water Begins to Flood Rama 2 Road in Bangkok

� As the Thai government continues to struggle to prevent more of inner Bangkok from flooding, the Bangkok Post is reporting Rama 2 Road is beginning to flood. Water is flowing into parts of Rama 2 Road in Thonburi, one of the areas of Bangkok the most affected by floods. Rama 2 Road is one [...]  See More..

Thai Movie “Top Secret” (Wai Roon Pun Lan) Tells Story of Thailand’s Favorite Seaweed Snack

� If you’re looking for a Thai movie that’s different from the usual teenage fare, don’t miss “Top Secret” (Wai Roon Pun Lan) the true story (well, it’s a bit fictionalized) of teenager Aitthipat “Top” Kulapongvanich, the young Thai guy who invented Thailand’s biggest selling seaweed snack “Tao Kae Noi”. I became interested in “Top [...]  See More..

OST Music Video for Thai Movie “Top Secret” (Wai Roon Pan Lan)

� If you liked the Thai movie “Top Secret” (Wai Roon Pan Lan), don’t miss listening to the main song from the OST (Original soundtrack). YouTube has the official video up and it includes a nice performance by Top Secret’s lead, Patchara “Peach” Chirathivat. Lots of crazy, screaming Thai girls too. �  See More..

Why Farangs Love Dr. Seree Supratid and His Daily “Thailand’s Worst Flood” Report

� In the last couple of weeks, Dr. Seree Supratid (also known as Dr. Seri  Supharatid) has become a TV and internet sensation in Thailand. The doctor, the current Director of Rangsit University’s Centre on Climate Change and Disaster, is a new featured flood commentator on Thai PBS TV every evening. But, not only does [...]  See More..

How Much is Thailand’s Economy Going to Lose Because of Floods? Hundreds of Billions of Baht

� The director of the UTCC’s Economic and Business Forecasting Centre, Thanawat Ponwichai, has said according to their calculations, the Thai economy will lose 300-400 billion baht ($9.73 billion to $12.98 billion) this year. He also said, if the flood water is quickly drained, Thailand’s economy may go back to a 4-5% growth by March [...]  See More..

Lee Cafe in Bangkok, Thailand – A Chain Chinese Restaurant Serving Delicious Food

� Bangkok, Thailand is known for its incredible variety of food, much of which is quite inexpensive. Oddly though, being cheap doesn’t usually stretch to Chinese cuisine, as many Chinese restaurants are some of the priciest in the city. That’s why, when I discovered the Chinese chain, Lee Cafe, I was thrilled. Trendy and cheap, [...]  See More..

Want to Rent a Holiday Studio Apartment in Chiang Mai, Thailand? Book One of the Best

If you like self-catering and love to stay in holiday apartments rather than hotels, then renting a studio apartment for a holiday in Chiang Mai, Thailand  is the best way to go, and these are three of the best. Studio 99 is an absolutely beautiful and thoroughly modern apartment building located near Tha Phae Gate [...]  See More..

Will All of Bangkok Sooon Be Flooded? Yes, It Seems Likely

� Some northern areas of Bangkok, Thailand first began to flood almost a month ago. In the last month, other northern areas of the city began to get hit with flood water too (including mine, which flooded last week) until, currently more than 25%, of Bangkok is now under flood waters, with more areas being [...]  See More..

Shahrazad in Bangkok, Thailand – Best Middle Eastern Food in the City

� Just a small restaurant down a little soi (street) just off Sukhumvit Road in downtown Bangkok, Shahrazad serves some of the best Middle Eastern food in Bangkok. Eating here the first time, you realize quickly, it’s not surprising this place is always packed. The food is superb, the service is good and the prices [...]  See More..

Best Business Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

� Ho Chi Minh City, otherwise known as Saigon, is a top business destination in south east Asia. With foreign investors from all over the world hoping to do business in rapidly developing Vietnam, business trips to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) are increasing every year. Luckily for business men and women, Ho Chi Minh [...]  See More..

Tourist Visas Free After Bangkok and Thailand Floods Subside?

� � Looks like we might once more be seeing free tourist visas to Thailand. The Tourism and Sports Minister, Chumpol Silapa-archa, is considering asking the Thai government to implement yet another free tourist visa scheme in an effort to persuade tourists to return to Thailand once all Bangkok and Thailand’s floods dissipate. Tourist numbers [...]  See More..

Best Chiang Mai Travel Agents and Tour Operators

� With more than 3.5 million tourists visiting the city every year, Chiang Mai is one of Thailand’s top tourist destinations. That’s why the city has hundreds of travel agents and tour operators offering day trips, city tours, hotel booking services and, of course, flight reservations to destinations both inside and outside Thailand. If you’ll [...]  See More..

Gallery Cafe in Phuket Town Is The Best CoffeeHouse and Cafe on the Island

� On a recent trip to the Thai island of Phuket, I met a friend for lunch. Although she works in Bangkok, Phuket is her home town and, every time I’d seen her recently, she’d raved about a restaurant in the old town area of Phuket Town called ‘Gallery Cafe by Pinky’. She’d promised to [...]  See More..

How to Apply For and Get a Retirement Visa (Non Immigrant O) for Thailand

� For many westerners, when they retire,  Thailand is a cheaper place to live than their home country and retiring here is easy. If you’re still outside Thailand but planning on retiring here soon, getting a retirement visa (otherwise known as a ‘non immigrant O’ visa), so you can live in Thailand, isn’t that difficult [...]  See More..

How to Get a Mobile Phone While on Vacation in China

� Nowadays, for most travelers, being on vacation or business for days or weeks without access to a mobile phone is simply not feasible. Being unreachable by friends, family or your company may have been alright 20 years ago, but not in the 21st century. That’s why many travelers to China rent or buy mobile [...]  See More..

How to Use Public Transportation in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

� On every trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, I use many of the public transportation options the city offers. In fact, a trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a wonderful destination for anyone who loves public transportation but particularly for budget travelers. With one of south east Asia’s best public transportation systems, it’s easy to [...]  See More..

Best Must See and Do Things in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand

� Just 65 kilometers outside Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom is only an hour’s drive away, but seems like a different world compared to the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. For a holidaymaker or a Bangkok resident who doesn’t own a car, getting to Nakhon Pathom is as easy as hiring a car or taking a taxi, [...]  See More..

Best Holiday Apartment Rentals in Bangkok – Life a Self-Catering Vacation?

� While there are many cheap hotels in Bangkok, Thailand, if you’re staying for a week or longer it often makes more sense to stay in a vacation apartment. There are thousands of apartment buildings throughout the city that will rent holiday apartments for a week or longer, and at rates far cheaper than a [...]  See More..

How to Make Your Feet Soft and Pretty with a Thai Green Tea Foot Bath

� Living in Thailand, one thing I learned fast is how many things green tea can be used for. As a drink, a source of vitamins, a weight loss aid, added to food, and even used in various health and beauty cures, green tea has hundreds of uses. Green tea can also used to make [...]  See More..

Limoncello in Bangkok, Thailand Serves the Best Authentic Italian Pizzas in the City

� When I want a good pizza and don’t want to mess with the tasteless Thai pizzas, I always head off on the sky train to Limoncello in downtown Bangkok. Known by some as “La Pizzeria Limoncello”, the restaurant has a large menu of Italian dishes but their incredible pizzas is what they’re famous for. [...]  See More..

Behind Thai Airways Market in Northern Bangkok Has Dirt Cheap Shopping

� Several years ago, I took a taxi on Ladprao Road in Bangkok, Thailand and asked the driver to take me home. In his unfamiliarity with the northern Bangkok neighborhood, he took a wrong turning behind the Thai Airways building and we ended up in an area of the city I’d never seen before. But, [...]  See More..

Ladies Market (Tung Choi Street) and Men’s Market (Temple Street) Offer Hong Kong’s Cheapest Bargains

� On my trips to Hong Kong, I always make time to shop at the city’s many markets. Two of the best markets, if you’re looking for items specifically for men or for women, are Ladies’ Market or ‘Tung Choi Street Market’ and Men’s Market, also known as ‘Temple Street Market’. While both markets sell [...]  See More..

Best Cheap and Cool Markets in Hua Hin, Thailand

� When you go on a beach holiday, you don’t necessarily expect to find awesome markets. That’s why taking a vacation in Hua Hin, Thailand is so fun. Not only is Hua Hin one of the country’s best beach resorts, it also has several excellent markets where cheap shopping abounds, and where you’ll find some [...]  See More..

LaiLai Sap Market is Bangkok’s Cheapest Place For Business Clothing

� Every office worker in the Silom area of Bangkok, has heard of Lailai Sap Market. Also known as Lai Lai Sup Market, this Monday through Friday clothing and accessories market is geared towards Bangkokians who work in offices and businesses in the Silom area of town. Tourists may stumble on the market occasionally but, [...]  See More..

Best Restaurants to Celebrate a Birthday in Bangkok, Thailand

� From hotels to restaurants to intimate cafes, Bangkok has some amazing places to celebrate your birthday. Whether you like Thai food, Japanese food, western food or a place that offers everything, you’ll have a wonderful birthday in Bangkok – guaranteed. Le Normandie – For something truly spectacular on your birthday, Le Normandie on the [...]  See More..

How to Get to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from Bangkok, Thailand – Trains, Buses and Planes

� Living in Bangkok, Thailand, I travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia several times a year. Malaysia is south of Thailand, with a land border with Thailand, stretching for hundreds of miles and major roads from Thailand going straight through Malaysia and down to Singapore. Kuala Lumpur, otherwise known as KL, is on the western side [...]  See More..

How Not to Get Arrested in Thailand: Doing These Things Could Get You Thrown in Jail

� Thailand has a world-wide reputation as a country where things are relaxed. That’s why, some visitors to Thailand are surprised when they do something not acceptable by Thais and get arrested. Yes, it is possible to get arrested in Thailand, a fact the several thousand foreign residents of Thai jails can attest to.  Getting [...]  See More..

How to Avoid Problem’s With Thailand’s Immigration: Do Everything the Legal Way

� One of the favorite things for foreigners in Thailand to complain about is Thai immigration. In online forums as well as real life, westerners talk about how difficult Thai immigration makes things for foreigners and how, if you’re not careful, you could end up in trouble or even in jail. I’ve lived in Thailand [...]  See More..

Top 5 Best Things to Do and See in Chiang Rai, Thailand

� Chiang Rai in northern Thailand is a small town but is surprisingly popular with tourists, both Thai and western. Most tours of Thailand include a few days in Chiang Rai,  because it’s a pretty town surrounded by countryside and mountains, and there are many fun and interesting things to do and see there.  Out [...]  See More..

Top 5 Fun Things to Do With Kids in Chiang Mai, Thailand

� If you’re planning a trip with your kids to Chiang Mai, Thailand, you’ve made a good choice. Chiang Mai is an amazing city in its own right, but it’s an especially fabulous place for kids. Thais love kids and kids in Chiang Mai will be spoiled for choice, as there’s so much to do. [...]  See More..

Ten Things Not to Do in a Job Interview for an EFL Teaching Position in Thailand

� If you’ve been to a job interview as a teacher in Thailand or have interviewed western (farang) teacher yourself, how some farang teachers behave in job interviews probably won’t surprise you. As a western teacher who has interviewed other western teachers in Thailand, I must admit, I’m not that surprised any more either. Some [...]  See More..

Best Cheap Budget Hotels in Tokyo: Stay in Japan for Just a Few Yen

� Tokyo, Japan is one of the world’s most expensive cities. Once in Tokyo, travelers can count on spending so much money that staying at a budget hotel, to offset some of the expense, is mandatory for many. Luckily, Tokyo has many excellent budget hotels in great locations and offering comfortable and clean accommodation for [...]  See More..

How to Register a Baby’s Birth and Get a Birth Certificate in Thailand

� Having a baby in Thailand and registering the birth if you’re a foreign national can be a bit confusing. Of course, if your partner is Thai you’ll have few problems but you’ll still need to know how to register your child at your native country’s embassy. Neither things are that difficult to do, simply [...]  See More..

News:Kirin “Tea Break” Bottled Iced Tea: Not Only Cheap But Supremely Delicious

� Bottled iced teas are popular all over Asia, with literally hundreds of brands and flavors to choose from. As I live in Thailand, one of the hottest countries in the world, I drink a fare number of iced teas and coffees every week, and I love to try new brands and flavors. One brand [...]  See More..

News:Vene and Cheesie – Two Cute Malaysian Girls Visit Bangkok, Thailand (Videos)

� As a travel writer in Bangkok,  Thailand, I love to watch other people’s videos of their trips to Thailand as it’s great to get a new perspective and to see the places people enjoy, and the food they love. So, every day, I run a quick search on YouTube to see if anything new [...]  See More..

News:Thai Airways Cancels 500 Flights Due to Floods in Bangkok, Thailand

� Thailand’s beleagured national airline, Thai Airways, and the country’s tourist industry continues to get hit financially due to flooding in Bangkok. Thai Airways have just announced they’ve cancelled more than 500 flights into, out of and around Thailand in the last few weeks, due to cancellations from passengers worried about the floods. The ever-falling [...]  See More..

News:Top Must See and Do Things in Thonburi, Thailand

� In the mid-1700s, Thonburi became Thailand’s capital city after Ayutthaya, the existing capital, was burnt to the ground by the Burmese army. In less than a decade though, Bangkok became the capital city and Thonburi, on the opposite side of the Chao Praya, became nothing more than a small town. More than 250 years [...]  See More..

News:Pepper Lunch at Central Ladprao Mall in Bangkok, Thailand (Video)

� Since Central Ladprao did their renovations and reopened a couple of months ago, I’ve been thrilled to now have access to a Pepper Lunch restaurant there.  Pepper Lunch is a Japanese chain steak restaurant, but not steak the way most westerners expect it to be served. Instead, Pepper Lunch serves steak (beef, pork, chicken [...]  See More..

News:Will Foreign Businesses Leave Thailand Now Floods Are Over?

� With many foreign businesses unhappy about flooding in Thailand, loss of their factories, and the Thai government and the BMA and the Bangkok governor’s response to it, there’s a concern many businesses, particularly those owned by Japanese companies that were badly hit in the floods, may leave Thailand. In fact, that’s not likely, although [...]  See More..

News:Major Ratchayothin Night Market in Bangkok, Thailand

� With so many markets to choose from and to shop at in Bangkok, Thailand, here’s another one you might like. Called the Major Ratchayothin Night Market, it’s located, like it sounds, right next to the Major Ratchayothin shopping mall on the corner of Pahonyothin Road and Ratchadapisek Road. Stalls start being erected about 3:30pm [...]  See More..

News:Best Must See and Do Things in Tokyo, Japan

� Tokyo is one of the top ten international cities in the world, and no more so when it comes to tourist attractions. With everything from shopping to dining, palaces, museums, world-class gardens and parks, shrines and temples, the visitor to Tokyo often feels a little overwhelmed. That’s why a great way to get to [...]  See More..

News:Pheu Thai Party MP Karun Hosakul Gets Kicked in the Backside by Democrat Spokeswoman

� You have to laugh at the bickering between the governing Pheu Thai party and the Democrats. They snipe and complain and lob insults at each other, every day, even during the worst floods Bangkok has seen in half a century. So, it’s probably not surprising that it finally came to blows this week when [...]  See More..

News:Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, Thailand – Kids Will Love a Day Trip Here

� When I was teaching English in Bangkok, Thailand my school had a school outing to Khao Kheow Open Air Zoo. Living in Thailand, it’s sometimes disappointing to see the country’s attractions as they’re not always the same standard of similar attractions in the US or Europe. In the case of Khao Kheow Open Air [...]  See More..

News:Top 3 Singapore Tours: Best Trips for the Price

� The first time I visited Singapore, I signed up for several tours. As a world-class developed country, Singapore has some excellent tours, that showcase the island nation well. With a fair few tours to choose from though, there are three top tours I recommend. Trips that will give you a good introduction to Singapore [...]  See More..

News:United Food’s ‘YoYo” Gelatin Candy Snack Now in Cola Flavor

� Not sure if I just haven’t checked the candy aisle for a while at my local Bangkok supermarket, but yesterday I stumbled across a new flavor of “YoYo” gelatin candy. YoYo is the Thai candy put out by United Foods, and usually comes in fruit flavors. This time though, their new flavor is Cola [...]  See More..

News:Bangkok School Reopening Delayed till December 6th Due to Floods

� � For all those teachers who are still waiting to return to school after Bangkok’s floods, the news today isn’t good. The Bangkok Metropolitan Association (BMA) has declared yet another delay for school reopenings, this time to December 6th, or possibly even later. The way it’s going, some Bangkok schools are going to be [...]  See More..

News:Boqueria in Bangkok, Thailand – Excellent European Food, But a Bit Pricey

� As a European, I obviously love European food, so when someone recommends a restaurant in Bangkok, Thailand, where I live, that serves good European food, I always make time to go. A few weeks ago, a former co-worker recommended Boqueria, a Bangkok restaurant known for its European cuisine. Recently renovated and having switched to [...]  See More..

News:Best Cheap Restaurants in Thonburi, Thailand – Delicious Food Can Still be Inexpensive

� Thonburi, a five minute boat ride across the Chao Praya River from Bangkok, is a hidden gem when it comes to delicious and authentic Thai food. On a trip to Bangkok, no visitor should miss eating out at a Thai restaurant in Thonburi. Here you’ll find the most delicious Thai food, made with the [...]  See More..

News:Cheapest Places to Shop in Thonburi, Thailand

� Thonburi, Thailand is an awesome place to do some cheap shopping for tourists and residents of Bangkok alike. Located just across the river from Bangkok and just a 5 baht (19 cents) boat ride away, if you’re looking for cheap markets, authentic floating markets, and dirt cheap shopping malls not on the usual beaten [...]  See More..

News:Best Places to Eat and Shop in Pahonyothin Area of Bangkok, Thailand

� The Pahonyothin area of Bangkok, Thailand is one of the most popular places to shop and dine outside the main downtown area. Pahonyothin (also spelled Paholyothin) is one of Bangkok’s major roads. It stretches for 1,000 kilometers from the center of Bangkok to the border of Myanmar. But, the main Bangkok shopping and dining [...]  See More..

News:Don Mueang Airport Not Dry Until New Year, 2012

� In typical Thai fashion, the “good news” yesterday that Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok will be dry in three weeks has already been changed. Now, a Thai natural disaster expert,  Dr. Seri Supratid, says there’s little chance Don Mueang will be dry before the New Year. The reason? Because new flood waters are now [...]  See More..

News:Thailand’s Economy in Bad Shape After Bangkok Floods

� While the Thai government keeps sounding positive about Thailand’s economy, devastated by Bangkok and northern Thailand floods, many Thais seem to have already accepted the economy is in terrible shape, and is likely to remain that way for a while. With flooding shuting down a huge number of Thailand’s factories and industrial parks, almost [...]  See More..

News:What’s the Local Time in Bangkok, Thailand?

� We’ve received a few emails recently asking us about the local time in Bangkok compared to places where other people live. Of course, you can do a search online to find Bangkok or Thailand local time but it’s easier just to bookmark Tasty Thailand and come back to us every time you need to [...]  See More..

News:How Much of Thailand Is Still Flooded?

� Even though Thailand has been under flood water for at least two months in places, some areas of Thailand are still flooded. According to Thai PBS ‘Thailand’s Worst Flood’, after many people are asking how much of Bangkok is still flooded, the Emergency Operations Department has announced that, as of November 24th, there are [...]  See More..

News:Flood Clean-Up Beginning in Thailand’s Industrial Parks

� As flood clean-up is starting all over Bangkok, it’s already begun in some of Thailand’s industrial parks too. While most are still under several feet of water, some factories are able to start cleaning up, even if it’s only on the upper floors while they wait for the lower floors to drain. An interesting [...]  See More..

News:Where to Shop and Eat Cheaply in Nonthaburi, Thailand

� For the first four years I lived in Bangkok, Thailand, I worked on the outskirts of Nonthaburi. Although a province in its own right, Nonthaburi is still part of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration so, for most Thais, when they eat or shop in Nonthaburi, it’s the same as being in Bangkok. One major difference [...]  See More..

News:What’s It Like Being a Buddhist Monk in Bangkok, Thailand? (Video)

� On YouTube the other day, I stumbled across this lovely short film by, Tara Milutis,  an American film-maker living in Bangkok. The film profiles a 70-year-old Buddhist monk,  Prasuputh Chainikom, who is a monk in a large temple in the middle of Bangkok. (I recognize the temple, but I’m not telling! — LOL, you [...]  See More..

News:Thailand’s Supreme Court President, Montri Yodpanya, Dies of Heart Failure Age 63

� The Bangkok Post is reporting Thailand’s Supreme Court President, Montri Yodpanya, died of heart failure last night. He was only 63 years old.  He had been Supreme Court leader since October 1st this year, and still had two more years to go in his term. Mr. Montri’s name was in the news most recently [...]  See More..

News:Best Museums in Chiang Mai, Thailand

� Many people don’t know about Chiang Mai’s amazing museums but,  surprisingly it has some wonderful ones. Its art museums, National Museum, and Cultural Museum are well worth visiting but, on a visit to Chiang Mai, it’s the city’s more unusual museums you really shouldn’t miss. That’s where Chiang Mai really shines. Hilltribe Research Institute [...]  See More..

News:How to Get to Pahonyothin Area of Bangkok on Buses, Trains, and Taxis

� I’ve lived in the Pahonyothin area of Bangkok for almost a decade. Pahonyothin begins at Victory Monument n downtown Bangkok and runs northwards, crossing Ladprao Road, Ratchadapisek Road and on to Kaset Sart University. The road continues on through Bangkok, passed Don Muang Airport and north, until it ends at the Myanmar border, more [...]  See More..

News:Silom Complex Shopping Center, Bangkok’s Funky Old-Fashioned Thai Mall

� I started shopping at  Silom Complex Shopping Center when I moved to Thailand 10 years ago. Today, although I don’t shop there as much, I still love this old-fashioned Thai mall. It’s less visited by tourists than other downtown Bangkok shopping centers, has a funkier, more traditional Thai feel to it and, located as [...]  See More..

News:Where are the Best Places to Hear Live Music in Chiang Mai, Thailand? (Video)

� The nightlife in Chiang Mai is cool and listening to live music is one of the most popular things to do.  With everything from modern jazz to Thai country, classic American rock to blues, there’s something for every taste, and these three places offer some of the best music in Chiang Mai (and some [...]  See More..

News:How to Get to Ramkhamhaeng Night Market and What to Buy There

� Over the last couple of years, I’ve shopped at the Ramkhamhaeng Night Market many times, and I’ve yet to see a tourist there. Sure, I’ve seen a couple of westerners but, like me, they’re expats who live in Bangkok, which is just about the only way foreigners know about this market. But, if you’ll [...]  See More..

News:Asian Human Rights Commission (ARHC) Says Thai Human Rights in Crisis After Lese Majeste Conviction

� As yet one more person in Thailand is sentenced to a massive number of years in jail for “lese majeste” crimes, (making negative statements about a member of the Royal family), the Asian Human Rights Commission (ARHC) came out this weekend, saying human rights in Thailand are in crisis. The statement was made after [...]  See More..

News:Best Business Hotels in Jaipur, India – World-Class Service, Luxury Accommodation

� Jaipur, India is the capital city of Rajasthan and home to almost four million people. It’s also a major business center, with corporate travelers arriving in Jaipur from all over the world to strike deals with Jaipur’s electronics, handicrafts, jewelry, manufacturing and automobile industries. Luckily, Jaipur is home to many world-class business hotels but [...]  See More..

News:Thai Prime Minister, Yingluck Shinawatra, in Hospital Suffering From Food Poisoning

� As if poor Yingluck Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand, doesn’t already have enough problems, what with Bangkok flooding and the abuse from the Democrats, The Bangkok Post is now reporting she’s been admitted to hospital because of food poisoning.  Yingluck was admitted to Pra Ram 9 Hospital in Bangkok early this morning, after food [...]  See More..

News:Best Gay-Friendly Hotels in Chiang Mai, Thailand

� For a supposed ‘conservative’ country, Thailand is one of the most gay friendly any gay man or lesbian will ever visit. Chiang Mai, in the north of the country, is one of the most relaxed cities. If you’re visiting Chiang Mai and want to stay in a gay friendly hotel, you’ll be thrilled to [...]  See More..

News:Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Heading to Vietnam While Recovering from Food Poisoning

Thai news is reporting this morning that Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who is suffering from the effects of food poisoning, will be released from hospital this morning in Bankgok, in time for her planned trip to Vietnam this afternoon. Yingluck is scheduled to meet with her Vietnamese counterpart, Nguyen Tan Dung today. Yingluck, apparently, is [...]  See More..

News:Top Cheap Hotels in Pahonyothin Area of Bangkok, Thailand

� Pahonyothin, (also spelled Paholyothin) is a popular area of Bangkok, Thailand. It’s located in the north of the city, further away from most tourist destinations, but still well-visited by foreign students who take short courses at local schools (Kaset Sart University, Text and Talk TEFL School, etc), as well as by expats who come [...]  See More..

News:Bangkok Government Schools Won’t Re-open Until December 13th

� As high flood waters still persist in Bangkok, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has announced 91 schools under their jurisdiction won’t reopen until December 13th. On top of that, schools that do reopen on December 6th will have five hours of classes every Saturday until March 3rd to make up for the lost hours.  I’m [...]  See More..

News:UNESCO To Give $72,000 Grant for Restoration of Flood-Hit Ayutthaya Historical Sites

� The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), has announced they’re giving just over 2 million baht, or around $72,000, to Thailand to be spent on helping restore the flood-hit historical sites in Ayutthaya. They also sent four experts from Japan, Holland and Italy to assess the flood damage and help Thailand come [...]  See More..

News:German Woman Dies After Falling off Elephant in Thailand; Husband Falls on Top of Her

� In a tragic accident, a 52-year old German woman has died after falling off an elephant in Krabi, Thailand.  The woman,  Kerstin Kretz Schmar, was riding on the elephant in a basket-style seat, when the elephant stumbled and fell. Both she and her husband fell out of the basket and hit the ground. But [...]  See More..

News:Best Must See and Do Tourist Attractions in Seoul, South Korea

� With more than eight million tourists every year, Seoul, South Korea is one of Asia’s top tourist destinations. With parks, palaces, gardens, museums, folk villages, shopping and lots more, it’s difficult to decide what to visit when in Seoul. There are however four places every tourist to Seoul should visit, or you haven’t seen [...]  See More..

News:Thailand Ranking Falls in 2011 Corruption Perception Index to 80

� As corruption in Thailand not only doesn’t improve but gets worse, the 2011 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) is proving that point. The index, released today by Transparency International, has pushed Thailand two places further down its list from 2012, with the country finishing in 80th place out of 183 countries. Many in Thailand, particularly [...]  See More..

News:Want to Rent an Apartment in Bangkok? These Online Rental Websites are Excellent

� For new arrivals in Bangkok, Thailand renting an apartment can be a bit of a hassle. That’s why it makes a lot of sense to do your apartment search on one of a number of excellent rental websites, before you start hiking around Bangkok’s hot streets. On online apartment rental websites in Bangkok, you’ll [...]  See More..

News:Don’t Miss the City’s Incredible Architecture on a Trip to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

� Kuala Lumpur, world-famous for shopping, entertainment and food is also renowned for its architecture and, as someone who loves unusual architecture, it’s one reason I love Kuala Lumpur so much. One of Asia’s most amazing cities when it comes to unique architecture, if you’re an architecture fan, you too will love Kuala Lumpur. From [...]  See More..

News:Best Cheap Budget Hotels in Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

� The Chinatown area of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a popular destination for tourists because of its large street market, excellent restaurants and Chinese culture. It’s also a center for budget hotels, with many of KL’s visitors staying in the area. With a large number of budget hotels in Chinatown to choose from, how do [...]  See More..

News:Western Female English Teachers Don’t Stay in Thailand Long – Here are the Reasons Why

� Every year, thousands of western female EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teachers come to Thailand. Many think they’ll get a good teaching job, make decent money, have a good lifestyle, maybe meet a nice Thai guy, and stay for a long time. The unfortunate reality is, most don’t. Out of the twenty or [...]  See More..

News:Mekhong Full Moon Party – A Classic Thai Movie To See Over and Over (Watch Online)

� � Ten years ago, when I first became interested in Thai movies, I bought “Mekhong Full Moon Party”. Honestly, I didn’t know anything about it, but thought the cover art was interesting, so I added it to my o nline shopping cart. That and five other Thai movies were shipped to me in the [...]  See More..

News:Where to Find the Best Malls in Ramkamhaeng Area of Bangkok, Thailand

� The Ramkamhaeng area of Bangkok, Thailand is a part of the city few tourists get to when they set off on a shopping expedition. It’s a pity, as Ramkamhaeng is home to excellent shopping malls  jammed with shops selling products at cheaper prices than in traditional tourist spots. If you’d like to explore, and [...]  See More..

News:Why are Thai Surnames (Last Names) So Long?

� � Many visitors to Thailand are struck by the long surnames or last names Thais often have. When a Thai introduces themselves, it’s not uncommon to hear something like, “Hi, my name is Suree Wontiphontiphontipoom” and, of course few foreigners, even those living here, remembers these names. They’re just too long for the average [...]  See More..

News:Best Cheap Places to Eat in Pahonyothin Area of Bangkok: These Restaurants are Excellent

� The Pahonyothin area of Bangkok, Thailand is home to literally thousands of restaurants, many of which serve some of the best food in the city. If you’re looking for an inexpensive restaurant, Pahonyothin is definitely the place to come, as there are many to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Thai, [...]  See More..

News:Bar-B-Q-Plaza in Bangkok, Thailand: The Country’s Biggest Barbecue Chain

� Japanese-style barbecue is one of the most popular cuisines in Bangkok, and Bar-B-Q Plaza is Thailand’s largest barbecue chain, as well as one of the top ten largest restaurant chains in Thailand. Bar-B-Q Plaza serves Japanese and Mongolian-style barbecue, and is famous for its superb quality of food and cheap prices. If you like [...]  See More..