Adventurous kids and Blood Diamonds.....

There's a Thai radio station which is basically a talk station. It's a favourite with taxi drivers as they have a lot of info on the various stages of gridlock throughout the city.

This morning they had a woman on making an appeal for her kids, or step-kids as it turned out. She lives in Bangkok and the two girls aged 3 and 9 had left home last night at about 6pm. They left a note saying they were off to see their mum in Pak Chong, about 190km north-east of Bangkok. Two kids and their bikes.

The woman and the father waited a while and tried to find the two. They couldn't. They called the police but the police told them they couldn't help because the kids hadn't been gone for 24 hours yet. Yes, that's right and don't forget they are 3 and 9.

This morning came and still no word so in desperation the woman called the radio show and went live on air to ask for help. They broke for the news and traffic update and then came back with great news, the kids had been found. A taxi driver listening to the show had seen the two kids, still in Bangkok but heading north. He stopped and got them and called the radio station from a call box.

The kids had slept rough last night and had enough money to buy rice and eggs and some drink. The 9 year old was the spokesperson for obvious reasons and was very confident and not in the slightest bit worried. The step-mum laid into her on air about going without telling anyone, until the presenter stepped in and pointed out it was neither the time nor place for a roasting.

Happy ending. Just thought I'd share it. Can't believe the 24 hour ruling with the police still applies even for 3 year olds.

Just seen Blood Diamonds. Great movie and DiCaprio in his best role yet, well, since What's Eating Gilbert Grape anyway.

Adventurous kids and Blood Diamonds.....

Continuing saga of the two Russian girls and Land Rover maintenance....

The latest twist in the murdered Russian girl saga seems to be that the police have invited a "motorbike expert" winner of a game show to see if he can recognise the bike used by the assassin. So I guess something along the lines of asking Jade Goody to help the police with their investigations. Hmmm. I can't help thinking that this is not showing the police in a very good light. I think Sly Stallone is in town at the moment, maybe he could be drawn in to decide what gun was used. He couldn't recognise the make of the bike from the footage but cleverly recommended that the police get a still from the video. There's a good idea! And it's only day four!

Another scorcher, though I think I may stop mentioning that as everyday is a scorcher here. Two mechanics here trying to fix the clutch on the Land Rover. It started as a two hour job this morning and wasn't going to cost much but it's now afternoon, they're still here and the price has quadrupled.

With bits of Land Rover spread out all over the drive I'm trying to stop the daughter and her mate from getting involved. They seem to be attracted to the oil, just want to get their paws in it and then share their new find with the furniture. Both mechanics are smokers so the place smells like, er, oh, I don't know, something smokey.

Having run wild all afternoon I've been persuaded to put a DVD on for them so I guess it's just a matter of time before they are both spark out on the sofa and then won't want to sleep later.

Continuing saga of the two Russian girls and Land Rover maintenance....

Bangkok traffic, Prince Charles and a great new band - MonkieJamm.....

It was a distance of not more than two hundred yards. It should have taken seconds but it took nearly forty minutes. Yes, I was in a Bangkok jam. What's happened? The last two days have been mad on the roads. Yesterday morning was chaotic and this afternoon was just unbelievable.

Yes, I know this is Bangkok and it's always bad but today's session of static butt kissing was on a road that usually flows. This always causes problems between the wife and me. She has the advantage of being a Buddhist and seems to be able to retain a relative calmness in these situations whereas I start to boil.

It's not normal to sit staring at the back end of a people carrier displaying a cartoon of a young boy pissing for more than half an hour and be calm. It's not normal to stay calm when finally the traffic does start to move and is suddenly brought to another crashing halt because nearly every car on the road immediately begins switching lanes. I can see where the term road rage comes from. I wonder if anger management courses for drivers are available in Bangkok? Hmm.

Prince Charles of Britain has upset McDonalds by being quoted as suggesting they be banned as a possible solution to the ever increasing obesity amongst kids back home. They of course say they have made great steps to change their business practices. Though I tend to side with him on this one I must say that I noticed McDonalds back home has changed: new furniture and layout, organic milk and salads, a recycling push. All very inspiring. To be fair, they can hardly be blamed for an entire nation's obesity problem.

Ever heard of a band called MonkieJamm? Probably not, they're an unsigned band from the UK. Have a listen to this and let me know what you think. I found it by accident and really like it. Needs some production and, personally I would suggest drums towards the end, but really catchy and perfect for getting over several hours in the Bangkok traffic.

If you liked that try this.

Bangkok traffic, prince Charles and a great new band - MonkieJamm.....

Soo hot, Taksin in London....

Another scorcher but with less breeze so the effects are greater. The garden is in desperate need of water.

The hunt for the killer of the two Russian girls continues and there's another change in the story. Yesterday the man on CCTV was Asian but today he's large and of unknown nationality. They're now looking for a Thai tour guide in connection with the killing too.

Taksin is off to give a talk on democracy in London. So, will it now be the turn of us Brits to be on the receiving end of Thai xenophobia? Will it be Tony Blair's turn to have his effigy burnt in public with protests outside the British Embassy and lots of trampling of Union Jacks and waving of the Thai flag? Remains to be seen.

The wife pointed out this morning that the government are not happy about him doing this. I pointed out that, loathsome as he was, Taksin was actually elected fairly and democratically three times by a vast majority. The present PM was appointed by the ruling elite following a very undemocratic military coup. She said goodbye and went to work.

I still have a Land Rover for sale if anyone is interested - deathly silence.

Soo hot, Taksin in London....

Russian tourists killed...

A reward of US$3,000 has been offered to anyone who can help identify the killer of two Russian tourists in Pattaya over the weekend.

Having been quick to brand them illegal sex workers the authorities have now confirmed that they were indeed genuine tourists and had no known connections with business of any kind in Thailand. Sadly it seems a very local trait here to brand all people with the same brush, especially when it concerns foreigners. Thereby two Russian women in their early twenties must have been on the game. I feel for their families and friends if they happened to read that account online from various Thai news sources.

I've never been to Pattaya, well once ten years ago but I refused to get out of the car and carried on without stopping. It had a terrible reputation and recently local business leaders there have been making an effort to re-brand it and present a more "family" style holiday destination. Sadly occurrences such as this one are not as rare as they should be and it still manages to retain its old image of sleaze and violence.

Russian tourists killed...

Funny old world - murdered tourists, honoured dictator and anti-semitism in Korea..

Two Russian girls have been shot dead in their deckchairs in Pattaya. Part of a legitimate tour group the girls were on holiday in Thailand and were apparently minding their own business when a gunman walked up to them on the beach, shot them and casually strolled back to a waiting motorcycle. Official line is that they were obviously illegal prostitutes, despite being part of a legal tour group.

Thais in Los Angeles have been protesting about the Thai military government and want power returned to the hands of the Thai people. I can't help but think they are wasting their time. On the subject of military dictators, today sees the official cremation rites of Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn.

Known as one of the "three tyrants" Thanom ruled the country with an iron fist from 1963 to 1973. During the second world war he commanded a battalion against the British in Burma, after Thailand declared allegiance with Japan and war on Britain and America. He was briefly PM in 1958 and then took over from Sarit Thanarat, following his death, in 1963. His decade long rule led to accusations of nepotism - the other two tyrants were his son and his son's father-in-law - and corruption, and culminated with the mass slaughter of nearly 80 student pro-democracy protesters on the streets of Bangkok on October 14, 1973.

Following exile in Australia and Singapore Thanom returned in 1976 which led to, understandably, protests from students. Sadly they were viciously put down by the military and police and officially 46 were killed, though many say the actual figure was a lot higher. Following his three years in "exile" all crimes were forgiven and by 1999 he was nominated as an honorary member of the royal guard.

Jews in America and Korean Americans are up in arms at the publishing of anti-semitic cartoons in a book aimed at children, in South Korea. The cartoons imply that Jews control the world's media and all top positions.



Translation: The final obstacle (on the path to success) is always the 'fortress of the Jews'.



Translation: To sum it up, American public debate belongs to the Jews and it's no exaggeration to say that it (US media) is the voice of the Jews.


Translation: 1) The reason why Arab terror struck at the despised America. 2)destroying the WTC with a suicide attack. 3) Jews use money and public discussion as weapons to make America do what they (the Jews) want.

This seems odd coming out of Korea, have I missed something? Jews and Koreans in the States are united in revulsion towards this publication which has apparently sold more than 10 million copies already. It was designed to teach Korea's children about people from other countries. Hmm. I hate to think what they have in the British section!

Funny old world - murdered tourists, honoured dictator and anti-semitism in Korea..

Hot Bangkok and nastiness towards Singapore..

Another scorching day here in Bangkok. As we head towards the Thai new year and the great water throwing festival the mercury is rising rapidly. Starting to get uncomfortable again; hot and very sticky.

Last night on one of the talk shows there was a senior military man dishing the dirt about various scandals. He claimed to have been offered 300m baht to "wipe out" one of Taksin's main opponents and when he refused an attempt was made on his life. Shockingly he also claimed to know exactly who carried out the new year bombings in Bangkok, but wouldn't say who. Apparently the authorities know but it seems the population are not to be privy to this information, just for the ears of the select few. All friends together I guess.

More anti-Singapore protests in the news. This picture was on the front page of the Bangkok Post this morning, showing Thais burning an effigy of the Singaporean PM and burning flags, whilst draped in the Thai flag and shouting for Singapore to go to hell. Singapore is one of Thailand's key allies and best buddies as it were. Nice way to treat your friends, eh.

Nationalistic sentiment is getting stronger here and this kind of ugly scene seems to be becoming more common. I think it boils down to having been shafted by one of their own, Taksin. Now they have to find a foreigner or foreign entity to hold responsible, as is so often the case. So much for their much trumpeted tolerance and friendliness towards outsiders.

I'm starting to feel the need for a beach. I really feel like spending a few days by the sea doing absolutely nothing except reading, swimming during the day and quaffing chilled Tiger in the evening. Now that is something I will really miss when I go back.

Hot Bangkok and nastiness towards Singapore..

How about something funny?

The end of another week and I'm only slightly closer to knowing what I'm going to be doing in a few months time. The move is looking almost certain, though with a heavy heart in some ways. I will miss this place and there are so many uncertainties about going back to the UK. Is it the right decision? Only time will tell.

Anyway, giving that I'm feeling less than happy right now I'm going to turn to youtube.com for some light relief. One of the great things about youtube is that there appears to be no limit to what you can find hidden away among the zillions of clips showing people doing inane things. There follows a clip from Chris Rock, someone I only began to appreciate a few years ago.

Being a Brit my preferred choice of humour is predominantly of a British variety. I usually find American humour way to obvious and the type of "humour" packaged in shows like the ghastly Friends is just unbearable (IMO). I really liked Frasier and have laughed my socks off at Eddie Murphy, Mel Brooks and Joan Rivers. Anyway, here's Chris Rock so enjoy.

How about something funny?

Fires and taxis in Bangkok....

River life

Look daddy, it's going to rain. This was my daughter on the way home from school yesterday afternoon. No said I, the sky is blue and it's scorchingly hot. But look, she protested, look at those big black clouds. She was right, there were big black clouds to our left.

When we turned into Tiwanon Road the clouds were clearer, only they weren't rain clouds but thick black clouds of smoke. The Toshiba factory was going up in flames. Hundreds of workers, all in identical uniforms, spewed out on to the road like ants to be counted as the smoke continued to belch forth from the back of the factory.

Sadly I have to admit that we slowed down as we drew nearer to the factory, to take a better look. Come on, it's human nature, we all do it. However, when I realised what we were looking at we moved off quickly. The fire seemed to be on the side of the factory right next to the Shell petrol station, and there was a breeze in the direction of said petrol station. Potential disaster I should think.

Heading down the road towards Tesco there were more than half a dozen fire engines hurtling up the road with firefighters perched dramatically on the top for maximum exhiliration. There was no bang or all-engulfing fireball so I guess they contained it before any real damage was done.

Once again I found myself in conversation with a taxi driver today. The usual conversation ensued with both of us firing questions back and forth about where we came from etc. Then he asked an odd question, is your wife cruel? Seemed strange. He elaborated. Does she shout? Does she talk too much? Does she stop you from going out? I think all women do this. (His opinion, not mine). Just seemed like a very peculiar thing to ask someone.

The he asked why I liked living in Thailand. Difficult one, as at the moment I'm not completely sure I do like living here but I couldn't say that. I thought about it and then lied through my teeth reeling out all the old cliches about food, weather and beaches. But in reality - these days I rarely get to the beach; the weather is far too hot and humid and the food, though very nice, is predominantly meat or fish based which makes it difficult for me as a vegetarian.

Fires and taxis in Bangkok....

Odd politics, moving and France...

I feel cheated. Like many people here in Bangkok I was in support of the military coup, with the sworn aim of dethroning the big man Taksin and his cronies. They were going to take the country back and set it back on its path to democracy and economic success, and free it from the yoke of greedy egotistical leaders.

But now what's happened? The new government has appointed non other than Somkid Jatusripitak to explain to the world about Thailand's "sufficiency economy" (I'd like that explained to me too). For those who don't know, Somkid was the deputy leader of Taksin's TRT (Thai Love Thai) party and largely responsible for what became known as Taksinomics. Think Tony Blair winning the 1997 election and then appointing Margaret Thatcher as chief policy advisor. You see?

So having dethroned the nasty TRT they have now begun hiring it's most senior members to help run the country. So how long before Taksin is brought back in to once again schmooze the electorate? Many are left wondering why the tanks were rolling down the streets of Bangkok last year, what was it all about.

Having made the decision to leave I'm now starting to back-peddle. Oh sure I think we'll be off shortly but now the decision has been made suddenly the positive aspects of life in Thailand are screaming at me loud. Suddenly all is rosy again. There are still many issues I have with life here but underneath it life is good, just so long as I don't read the paper or pay too much attention to what is going on. The more I read about life back in the UK, the state of the education system, crime, quality of life for children and .....on and on, the more I wonder if we're making a big mistake.

I do know that we won't be in the UK for all eternity, I seem to get itchy feet very quickly. And if Labour win another election we'll definitely be off. I managed to miss most of the Blair years by being out of the country and I don't know that life under Mr. Brown will be something I want to experience, assuming of course that Blair finally lets go of the reins.

To be honest if I could select any country to live in it would be France. I wouldn't say this in earshot of any French person obviously but I do like the French and I adore their country, especially their wine. The daughter has an obsession with France too, and she's never been there. I think she's inspired by her French art teacher at school who she has a great liking for. Last year she (the daughter) was telling me regularly that she wanted to live in France, in an old house that has no bathroom. Kids say the strangest things.

Odd politics, moving and France...

Pool party.....

Another one of the increasingly popular mid-week parties today, this time a pool party. The wife is a huge fan of these working hour kids' parties because she has the perfect excuse not to attend - work. I, on the other hand, fulfill my role as driver and chaperon and dutifully collect daughter from school and take her to said party, having already been and bought present and card.

As it turned out this wasn't a bad party. The party was outside and I'm a sweater. If it's hot I perspire. But today it was so hot that everyone was in the same boat which I found to be a refreshing experience in a sadistic kind of way, rather than be the only one with dark patches of moisture showing through.

Unlike the weekend parties where both parents are generally in attendance this one was almost exclusively female, with me being one of a two male minority (I was also the only Brit there). So while the daughter frolicked in the play area and in the pool I was left chatting to the only other male and of course a good number of the scantily clad and mostly attractive mothers. Being a house dad does have its advantages.

I think today was the start of a new stage of development for the daughter. Unlike previous parties where she's tended to mostly cling to me like a lovesick limpet, today she struck out on her own and spent most of the time playing with her mates. There were definite signs of a growing Independence. This is doubly surprising given that over the last few days she's made a point of looking me in the eyes and telling me, "I will never leave you daddy, I'll always be with you". No idea what's brought this on but, touching though it is, I pointed out that one day she'll be a teenager with an attitude and the mere sight of me will embarrass her. She's not convinced.

Pool party.....

The Bangkok taxi driver...

I've blogged before about Bangkok taxis. Generally I enjoy taking taxis in Bangkok because it's a great opportunity to practice a bit of Thai and chew the fat. I took a taxi earlier to Banglamphu with a really interesting guy who told me all about what it's like to be a Bangkok taxi driver.

It was one of those pink taxis that are rapidly increasing in number throughout the city, the ones that my daughter insists we go in everytime because they're pink. He works twelve hour shifts from 0400hrs to 1600hrs everyday, and then hands the car over to a buddy who will work it for the other twelve hours. For him there is only one car for the job, Toyota. His Toyota is three years old and has worked 24/7 since new with nothing more than regular service and tyre change. So no surprise that about 99% of taxis in Bangkok are also Toyota.

As with most of the taxi drivers he pays a rent to the taxi company of 600baht per twelve hour shift, everything else is his own, after fuel. The company pays for maintenance and he's responsible for repairs due to accidents.

His biggest problem is increasing competition from the overcrowded taxi market in Bangkok and the police. He was very passionate about his annoyance with the police and their tactics regarding taxi drivers. "You park in the wrong place for a few minutes, too fast, too slow, make a wrong turn, whatever reason they take your money all the time. Sometimes for no reason or a made up reason they take your money. It's too much, I'm bored of it." The police in Bangkok are well known for their dubious antics and liking for collecting "tea money", unofficially.

The big bonus for any taxi driver is the trip up country. Within Bangkok they are bound by law to use the meter but outside Bangkok it's down to their bargaining skills. A trip to Pattaya from Suwarnabhumi will set you back between 1,300 to 1,500baht, or Hua Hin 2,500baht. He was virtually rubbing his hands with glee at the thought of this.

Suwarnabhumi was another thorn in the taxi driver's side. It's so far away that they can't come back to Bangkok empty and so have to stick around at the airport until they get a fare. With so many taxis there at anyone time and the queuing system controlled by the airport, who take the 100 baht service charge, taxis have to wait an average of two hours. That's two hours with no fare.

His dream is to get enough money together to make the down payment on a car of his own and then start to earn more money and work the hours he wants rather than having to stick to his present shift.

An interesting guy and great fun to chat with. We came back from Banglamphu by river taxi which the daughter enjoyed immensely. My foot problem got so bad by the evening that I ended up going to hospital for some anti-inflammatory pills and bandaging. Seems I've torn a tendon or something so no wonder I've been in pain for six days and can't walk properly.

The Bangkok taxi driver...

Great news for Bangkok, bombs in the south...

Afternoon nap.

At last!!! Great news on the front page of the Bangkok Post. For as long as I can remember, or at least as long as I have been visiting Thailand (fifteen years), I have moaned about the immigration staff in Bangkok, first at Don Muang and now at Suwarnabhumi. They are miserable, un-interested, rude and appear to have lost their heads between their own butt cheeks most of the time. Immigration staff in Phuket, Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai aren't like it, and immigration staff in other countries aren't like it. Even their counterparts in Beijing and Rangoon are more friendly and welcoming.

Well, the many complaints from pissed off tourists and visitors has finally paid off. The Post reports today that immigration staff at Suwarnabhumi airport are to get "personality training" so as to learn how to smile and present a better image of Thailand. It's a simple thing but will make such a huge difference to the thousands of people who start there trip into Thailand wondering what they did to anger the miserable bugger at the immigration desk. Whoever is responsible for this, I want to kiss you! Personally I would have recommended a full personality transplant but training is a good start.


Sadly there has also been a series of bombs in the south, one report saying more than twenty explosions throughout four provinces. The explosions were coordinated and managed to injure nearly fifty people and some reports say four dead. Devastating as this is, in bomb terms and acts of terrorism it's a lucky escape. Two bombs went off yesterday in Baghdad killing 56 people. I know that's small consolation for the people injured and dead but just imagine what would have happened if the twenty or so bombs had been of the same magnitude as the Baghdad bombs. Catastrophic!


I was hoping to go and watch the Chinese new year celebrations yesterday but still suffering from my ankle injury from last week so had a day of rest. It didn't help, just as bad today.

Great news for Bangkok, bombs in the south...

Chinatown, Bangkok and a great electric car....

Had a mooch around Chinatown area this afternoon watching the preparations for the big celebration tomorrow. Busy but I guess not as busy as it will be tomorrow. Red and gold everywhere and firecrackers going off regularly.

Lots of colour

Food is a big part of the Chinese celebration

Ever heard of VentureOne? It's a revolutionary 3-wheel, plug-in all electric, or Hybrid vehicle - that tilts. A 2-passenger capacity vehicle that can reach 100 mpg, hit 60mph in 6 seconds and speed you to more than 100 mph. And the best news is it should retail for under US$20,000!! And to top it all it looks great! But will it ever get into production?

Chinatown, Bangkok and a great electric car....

Patriotic Thailand

Well, things are getting serious, seriously deranged. The head of Thailand's present military junta has made a speech declaring that he, as a Thai soldier, will not allow "even one inch of Thai soil to be lost". And that includes assets, and assets other than land.

He was of course referring to Shin Corp, the company sold by ex-PM Taksin to Temasek, the investment arm of the Singapore government. A private company sold for US$3.9billion to a foreign entity but now the new military self-appointed government have said they are taking it back. Apparently there are two options open to them, either they can prove Temasek have broken their contract and grab it or they can simply snatch it back regardless of silly things like laws and common decency.

This news has been received with a great deal of thumping of chests and shouts "chaiyo" from Thai nationals. Patriotism is high on the agenda in Thailand at the moment and there's a strong feeling of them and us. At the moment there's a Thai film out that has been very successful, The Legend of King Naresuan. Yet another Thai film about those evil Burmese trying to steal land from the peace loving Thais. Once again the proud, but put-upon, Thais are saved by a great hero, this time a king (it was an elephant last year).

These patriotic Thai films (of which there seems to be an endless stream) depicting the Burmese as scum of the earth, evil-doers seem to forget that Thailand too was not averse to a bit of land-grabbing itself during this period. They stole from the Burmese, Khmer and swallowed up small independent kingdoms in the north and south of what is now known as Thailand. Last year several respected Thai historians came out against these films and asked that the truth be told occasionally, especially in school text books.

The queen has seen the film and declared that it is important and shows the importance of patriotism. General Sonthi is due to see it and has ordered the army to create a cartoon about this great king for younger readers. He has also ordered every unit in the army to foster patriotism in this, 2007, the year of patriotism. So I guess Thailand will soon be known as the "hub" of patriotism. There's only been one mention of hubs this week, and that was the old "technology hub" chestnut.

What was it that the great Dr Samuel Johnson of dictionary fame said about patriotism: Patriotism is the last refuge of scoundrels. Hmm

Patriotic Thailand

Finding a good backpack....

I've been looking for a new backpack for some time now. I've been trying to find a small, light backpack that is easy to carry around town or when cycling, not for going off backpacking with but a small "day pack". My requirements are that it needs to carry: laptop, digital SLR, movie cam, small digital cam, spare batteries, pens, notebook, book (of the reading variety) and somewhere for the iPod.

After much consideration I have found the one I'm looking for and bought it yesterday. I looked in the UK and on the internet and it seemed the only company that really makes anything remotely like what I was after is Lowepro; website here. I've bought the Lowepro CompuDaypack which has: padded laptop compartment, padded adjustable compartment for SLR and several lenses, large upper daypack compartment, quick access iPod pocket with headphone cable port, padded shoulder straps with breathable dryflo, and it's water resistant.

I bought it from the True shop in Paragon which was, ironically, cheaper than the shop at MBK that sells them. It was 2,500 baht (GBP£38, US$75). In the UK they retail for double that and are hard to come by. The cheapest I've seen them to date is on Ebay from Singapore, for about US$10 more than True in Paragon. It's seems like a really good bag and probably the most comfortable one I've ever used, great purchase.

They do a few other small packs for laptop and SLR but they tend to be much bigger and more like mini suitcases than day packs. For 5,000 you can get the CompuTrekker which really is like having a small suitcase on your back. Seems a great bag and really well made but just too big. Definitely worth checking out Lowepro if you're in the market for any kind of backpack, they have a great range.

Finding a good backpack....

Best restaurant in Bangkok and scary birthday party...

Went to a private buffet at what is one of my favourite eateries in Bangkok, Tamarind Cafe. Situated a few hundred yards into Sukhumvit soi 20 Tamarind Cafe is, in my opinion, one of the best restaurants in Bangkok and without doubt the best vegetarian restaurant.

A contemporary restaurant with an industrial flavour it is set on three floors including a roof-top terrace, the setting for last night's buffet, and offers an extensive menu of vegetarian cuisine that is anything from bland.

The restaurant is owned by two girls, one French and the other Taiwanese, who opened the first branch of Tamarind Cafe in Hanoi, Vietnam, some years ago. The food is a fusion of east and west combining the best of both, and seems popular with both vegetarians and carnivores alike. I've eaten in the Hanoi branch and can strongly recommend that one too if you happen to be in the area.

If you're looking for somewhere a bit special give it a try. I recommend their vegetarian lap gai (one of my favourite Thai dishes from my meat eating days) or their pineapple stuffed with curried rice. Their website is here.

Took the daughter to a birthday party yesterday afternoon. One of the entertainments provided was a puppet show, in Thai. All was going well and every kid was captivated by the show. Then, without warning, a guy dressed as a monster leapt from behind the screen, a bit too enthusiastically. It was like watching dominoes fall. First one kid burst into fits of hysterics then most of the rest followed, flooding out of that particular room in droves. What looked like being a huge success turned to disaster.

Best restaurant in Bangkok and scary birthday party...

Serious writing, child's imaginary friends......

Given that I might be leaving Thailand in the coming months I'm going to make a greater effort to blog some serious thoughts and findings about Thailand. Sure there will continue to be stuff and nonsense and the usual ranting and moaning about whatever is pissing me off at that precise time but a lot more writing of substance too, I hope.

I've spent many years in Thailand, on and off, and due to the fact that most Thais either don't care about history or know very little about it I've read a great deal about it and spoken to various knowledgeable people who do know about these things. So, as a little exercise to put what I do know down on paper I'll start looking into various facets of Thai history and culture.

Given that I first arrived as a kid, well late teens then, in the aftermath of Gen Suchinda's slaughter of peaceful demonstrators, and have just lived through yet another of Thailand's far too numerous military coups I guess that could be the topic of the first bit of serious writing. The coup, something that Thailand has truly led the world in over the last hundred years. Though when I say "serious", not too serious, just as factual as I can manage.

Two days back at school and we have the first party tomorrow. Odd, being a weekday party for a four year old. Unfortunately the wife will be escaping this one due to work, but I have no choice, I have to go. Bugger!

My daughter is just over three and a half and an only child. She has a very vivid imagination and has several "imaginary" friends. As she talks with and about them I always feel this is some kind of early madness but I've been informed that it is in fact quite normal. Any thoughts on this? Is it slightly crazy behaviour or loneliness, or completely normal?

Serious writing, child's imaginary friends......

New video clip and shopping in Bangkok....

Short movie with music

Just a short clip of the journey from the UK to Bangkok, via Singapore. Still getting to grips with this filming and editing nonsense, hope to get it cracked soon. Comments welcome (just remember I have feelings though).

Took the daughter to The Emporium shopping mall this afternoon. I think it is my most hated place in Bangkok at the moment. The car park has got to be the worst in the city, and believe me you have to go some to get that accolade. It was bad already but now they have introduced a valet service, which of course appeals enormously to the type of person who shops there, which means unless you opt for said valet service you have next to no chance of finding a space.

It's not just the car park but the people there too. Despite being about fourth in the shopping mall social hierarchy, behind Central World, Paragon and Gaysorn, it just seems to attract a really pretentious clientele most of whom appear to have their heads firmly wedged between their butt cheeks. For any lovers of and regular visitors to Emporium, apologies. Just one person's opinion. My favourites at the moment remain Paragon, Central World, Central Chidlom and Central Lard Praow. My god, I'm blogging about shopping malls! Life is too short, I need to get out of this place soon.

New video clip and shopping in Bangkok....

Chinese New Year, arranged marriage and another hub...

An uneventful day. The weather is getting hotter by the feel of it. More bickering in the press about whether or not opening the new airport is a good thing, the main concern being what links there will be between Don Muang and Suwarnabhumi for domestic/international connections etc. Usual thing.

With Christmas and the New Year celebrations out of the way the shops are well and truly set for the Chinese New Year celebrations. With the big bearded guy in red out of the way red and gold (Chineses NY) is the colour at the moment, with a hint of pink and the odd rose for the upcoming Valentine's Day. Ever Burger King are giving the little red gift envelopes (Chinese tradition at this time of year usually containing money) away with their meals. Inside are about half a dozen tokens for discounts on various items of food sold by Burger King. Burgers aren't really a part of our diet, just an occasional treat for the daughter. We generally go to Burger King because they do a veggie burger, whereas the big clown doesn't. Anyone know why?

When Valentine's and the Chinese NY are done and dusted it's full steam ahead for the Thai New Year. Thais are certainly not slow to celebrate any celebration that can be celebrated. Oh, and I've capitulated, looks like it will be dinner for Valentine's Day. Argh!

Sad story about some village in Pakistan in the paper. There was a dispute involving two families and the village heads were called in to arbitrate. The sentence they reached was the forced marriage of a four year old girl and a 45 year old man! Now, I know that some religions and some cultures have arranged marriages and in this terribly PC world we are supposed to be mindful of cultures other than our own, but... really! What kind of mind or culture could possibly condone forcing a four year old into a marriage with a middle aged man? How is this justice? More to the point how can this be tolerated in any society? It's a strange old world.

Oh yes, I read of another hub that's been announced yesterday but unfortunately I've forgotten what it was. Regional cargo hub I think. Thailand is sure suffering from a case of serious hub gluttony.

Chinese New Year, arranged marriage and another hub...

Tired in Thaland and iPod purchase in Bangkok...

Funny weather here. Yesterday was hotter than the last few days and then came a huge downpour which lasted about ten minutes. Quite refreshing really. Today is cooler again.

End of the first week back at the gym and I'm knackered to say the least. Insomnia has struck again and I find myself wide awake at 2am but still getting up around 6am, result: feeling tired throughout the day. The thought of going for another pounding at the gym today is not a pleasant one but there's some serious weight increase which needs decreasing.

Trying to make up my mind whether or not to replace my iPod (I ran over mine) now or wait until this new iPhone comes out. The Apple reseller here in Bangkok is currently doing a good deal, a 60gb video iPod for 10,990baht (GBP£163 or US$320). I'm currently using my old Archos Gmini whilst I'm ipod-less. It's ok but not a patch on the old pod. As a rule I'm trying not to buy any expensive techie items in Bangkok because of the problems I've had in the past and the fact that Thai shops generally won't honour guarantees. It's tempting though, and cheaper than the UK.

As Valentine's approaches I've found myself under pressure from the sister-in-law to be romantic and take the wife out. I generally don't do romantic, at least not since I got married anyway. All seems a lot of effort. Though I guess I'll give in by the time the 14th arrives.

Tired in Thaland and iPod purchase in Bangkok...

Free wifi internet access Bangkok..

A lot of places in Bangkok are now offering wifi internet. Usually you have to either be registered with a particular service provider or you have to buy time as and when you need it. The most widely available services are True and KSC.

I use wifi quite a lot. There's something quite liberating about being in a coffee shop and being able to open up the laptop and just start surfing. Most places have power points too or, like me, you get a long lasting battery which gives you up to ten hours on one good charge.

I've been looking into where wifi service is free in Bangkok. I'm sure there are many more than I've listed here but here are few for starters:

All Seasons Place - Wireless Road.
Several networks including a free one.

Black Swan Pub - Sukhumvit Road, under the Asoke BTS station.
Free wi-fi, so I'm told.

Oh My Cod - Rambutri Road near Khao San Road.
British fish and chips, free wi-fi connection for customers, and BBC on widescreen!

Conrad Hotel - Wireless Road.
Free wi-fi in the lobby and lobby bar.

Landmark Hotel - Sukhumvit near Nana skytrain station.
Free wi-fi in the lobby and patio out front.

Siam Square - Shopping mall between Discovery and Paragon
Apparently there is free True wifi here.

I'm sure there are more than this and I will post as and when I find them. Likewise, if you hear of anymore please let me know.

Basically I can now, should I feel the desire, do all my work from the comfort of an armchair in a coffee shop. I have battery power to last a day. I have a Skype usb phone so I can call anywhere in the world either free or for a small charge and now free access to the internet in said coffee shop. What a wonderful world it is.

Free wifi internet access Bangkok..

Eating in Thailand...

Anyone living in Thailand or who knows anything about current events in Thailand will have heard of the "Epicurean Masters of the World" dining extravaganza that will take place this weekend. Basically it's lots of filthy rich people paying 1 million baht (about (US$29,000 or GBP£15,000) for a meal cooked by six three-star Michelin chefs.

Flying in from various parts of the world they will be entertained at the Dome Restaurant on the 65th floor of State Tower by the chefs, also flown in, and a wide range of "delicacies", also flown in for the occasion.

The eleven course dinner includes such revolting dishes as creme brulee of foie gras and veal cheeks. Incidentally foie gras is being banned in more and more places around the world, and for good reason.

As an event that is designed to promote Thailand as a hot destination with cuisine to match, the menu is, strangely enough, exclusively European.

Deepak Ohri, organiser and MD of Dome Restaurant, laughed off comments about the environmental effects of flying in not only the guests but also the food and the chefs. Apparently he thinks that fewer tourists but spending more money is better than lots of tourists. Hmmm.

Apparently there's only one Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in the world. It's in London, is Singaporean owned and the head chef is an Aussie.

Seats are still available if you wish to join the "great and the good" for this unique dining experience.

Eating in Thailand...

Would you pay more for an environmentally friendly car?

Quite a debate raging on the BBC website, here, about whether people are prepared to pay extra for cars that have lower emissions. Europe has suggested that car makers reduce emissions by about 20% within the next five years, which is not going down well with car makers or motorists. The question is, would you be prepared to pay extra in order to have a car that is more environmentally friendly?

There's a lot of comment about the benefits of using cars longer instead of buying new ones every few years. If the car is economical then I agree. I had a 1995 diesel Peugeot that did over 50mpg and went on and on, until the garage forgot to change the cam belt and the engine popped.

Lots of talk too about hybrid cars. I've got a friend back home who has just bought a Lexus hybrid with an enormous engine. She pointed out that the performance is great but fuel efficiency crap, less than 30mpg. Where's the point in that then. Surely smaller more economical cars are the way forward.

Personally I favour not having a car at all. They're a pain in the arse and cost a fortune in maintenance and taxes. I like flash cars like the next person but the idea of some funky big motor like an Aston, Rolls, Hummer or Maybach that does about 10mpg just doesn't do it for me. Bugatti brought one out a few years ago that will drain a full tank of fuel in 12 minutes if you floor it. Some claim to fame!!

Environmental rant over.

Would you pay more for an environmentally friendly car?

Bangkok airport(s), Land Rover for sale and moving...

Well, the inevitable has happened. I've been saying it since day one and so has just about every foreigner I've spoken to. It's official, they're going to re-open Don Muang and have two international airports. It makes sense, rather than continuing the expansion program at Suwarnabhumi. I just hope that the two air traffic control centres can work in harmony and avoid any accidents over Bangkok.

Something else I got right was the action to be taken against the Thai football team for their big sulk last week, in defiance of the ref's decision. They've got away with it, no surprise really.

Anyone want to buy a Land Rover? Given that we're almost certainly heading back home sometime this year I'm going to sell the Land Rover. I've thought about taking it back with me but not sure it is worth it, as I'm sure it would need lots of work to get it road worthy by UK standards. It's still an option though. Ideally I would like to get something small and economical in the UK, or live somewhere where a car is not needed at all.

The specs: 1972, LWB Land Rover, dual fuel (petrol and LPG), 10 seats, green, power steering, air-con, and in need of a bit of TLC. I've got a figure in mind but open to offers. The daughter will cry her eyes out when she finds out.

It's odd but despite everything I feel about this place and all the moaning I do about it I know I will be very sad to leave. It does grow on you and certainly gets under your skin. I think the only way we won't leave though is if I can find a way to balance an existence between the two countries and get a good income. All suggestions welcome. I know that within a few years of being back in the UK I will get itchy feet and want to move again. Very unsettled, must be something in the genes.

Bangkok airport(s), Land Rover for sale and moving...

Diet needed, book about Taksin and Diane Hannon, cat killer...

I knew I'd put on weight in the UK but only this morning did I find out how much. One stone!! That's 14lb or 6.35kg!! And in about one month! Being back home was nice and foraging on all the old delights was enjoyable but added to the fact I wasn't doing my daily session in the gym the pounds just stacked on. Hell I feel disgusted with myself, no wonder yesterday's return to the gym was painful. I'm quite tall and have a heavy structure so the weight, fortunately, doesn't look too bad but I feel uncomfortable with it. So, having put it on in a month I'll see if I can get it off before the end of Feb, or the end of the first week in March. Currently 103kg. Watch this space.

Usual nonsense in the papers this morning. A senior police johnny has been moved and replaced by the military lot. More about the crap at the new airport etc etc. Opposition politicians have published a book detailing Taksins crimes against Thailand, to be distributed internationally. I think the idea is try and make people wise to the true nature of this guy.

The report in the paper mentioned the main areas of concern like corruption and cronyism but, once again, no mention of the thousands of innocent people who died under his "rule". Honestly, if they want international support I don't think they would do better than playing up the "crimes against humanity" aspect of his time in power. And maybe the families of the deceased can get some justice too.

Some Welsh woman was sentenced to four months suspended sentence and a miserly £300 GBP fine yesterday in the UK for an act of callous cruelty. Pissed off with her boyfriend she threw his 6 year old deaf cat in the washing machine and turned it on. The cat was scolded, lost its fur, broke bones and had a heart attack and died. She told him about it on the phone and had a good laugh and said she hated him. Her defence was the usual crap about being depressed and regretting her actions and so she didn't get jailed. I saw this on the BBC news site here. Just felt moved by it. Can't understand some people. Surely she must be a danger to the public, mentally disturbed without a doubt. Her name is Diane Hannon.

A ghastly specimen of humanity, Diane Hannon - Cat Killer

Sorry about this, couldn't help it.

Diet needed, book about Taksin and Diane Hannon, cat killer...

Getting back into life in Thailand...

Singapore won, and apparently there wasn't any violence. Although it was a 1-1 draw they won on aggregate. The Asean Football Federation will decide soon whether or not to punish the Thai side for their sulky pitch departure at last week's game. My guess is that it will blow over and be forgotten about.

Back to the gym today, first time for about seven weeks. Not only have I not been going but I managed to put on a lot of weight when I was back in the UK so it was a real struggle today. I ache like hell now and feel like doing nothing, except perhaps sleeping.

Had to get up early to take the wife to the airport, she's away for a few days on business so it's just the daughter and me again. Talking of the airport the latest reports show yet more trouble down at the great Suwarnabhumi Airport. This time it's the passenger boarding bridges. Hmm, will it ever end? Even members of the government have admitted that the whole thing is a joke and denting Thailand's reputation abroad. Ah well!

Thailand has an obsession with "hubs". They've been banging on for some time now about being a hub for just about everything: international hub for cuisine, massage hub, relaxation and spa hub, tourist hub, technological hub, telecommunications hub (yeah, right) and Suwarnabhumi was set to give it aviational hub status, but not now. They have announced today that Bangkok could become the logistics hub of Asia. Bless. So many hubs. I wonder what the minister for hubs will announce next. Hub of hubs perhaps?

The garden is overgrown with weeds due to my absence over the last four weeks so I have a load of work to do. But right now, no energy and no motivation.

Getting back into life in Thailand...

Back in Thailand...

Well, back in Thailand. Long and tiring flight via Singapore. Singapore Air once again up to their usual good standards, looking forward to trying out one of their new Airbus A380s, when they finally get them in the air.

Nice to see the immigration staff at the new Suwarnabhumi airport in Bangkok are still taking themselves far too seriously and haven't learnt to smile. Wouldn't be the same without some miserable bugger stamping my passport and making me feel like I shouldn't be here. Landing went OK, if a bit rough but then that could been anything so not necessarily the cracks. Note to airport management: get some cleaning equipment and have a go at those floors throughout the airport. Saturday evening seems a good time to be arriving, got through in no time at all.

Mixed feelings about being back. I'm still up for a move back to the UK but, despite everything, there is a part of me that quite likes life here. I need to find a balance. But, still aiming at a move about June time.

Football match this evening, another Singapore v Thailand extravaganza. Should be entertaining. Hope the Thai team can go the full length of the game ON the pitch and try not to get in a huff. Thais have already been protesting outside the ground about the fact the tickets sold out so quick. Hmmm, this is a numbers thing, isn't it? X number of tickets and X times a hundred number of people wanting to see the match. I feel that Thailand is in danger of causing some serious damage to its reputation, if violence occurs as expected. I really hope this isn't the case. I'm sure my support for the Singaporean team will cause some marital tension in the house this evening.

Went to the shop in the moo baan last night to get a beer. The guy there was his usual jolly self, chatting and asking about England and the weather there. "My daughter lives there but I don't even know what the weather is like." This is his usual complaint. His daughter went to the UK to study some years ago and never came back. He knows she is now working, but other than that nothing. Quite sad really. He jokes about it but I think he's quite upset really. We've got a neighbour who's son and daughter went to public (private for you Americans) school in the UK and then uni there too and they've never come back either. Children of Thailand lost to the west and comfortable living.

More later, I have a mop of hair that is in desperate need of a chop.

Back in Thailand...

Fuel surcharge and Thailand's big huff....

Just found this in my inbox. Childish but amusing all the same.

It's official, the new fuel surcharge for long haul flights is GBP£40 per passenger. Some airlines have very kindly agreed to swallow this cost, presumably thay mean hide it in a sneaky price hike (such a cynic). I'll guess I'll find out at the check-in couter. The big question now is will the extra billion quid (official figs) gained by the treasury actually go to environmental projects to counter the effects of pollution, or simply to the treeasury. Hmm, my money is on the treasury, and maybe more speed cameras.



Apparently Thai workers in Singapore have been leaving their jobs because of losing to Singapore the other night. That's a serious huff by anyone's standards! The Thai team manager has insulted Singapore by saying that it is dangerous for Thailand to play in Singapore because of the gambling. Oh, right, so there's no gambling now in whiter than white Thailand. A very troublesome and extremely nationalistic crowd is expected at the return game on Sunday. I feel sorry for any Singaporeans at the match as they will no doubt come under attack by silly little Thais if their team is victorious. Thailand will surely win (one way or another) or there'll be some bawling and crying and 60 something million huffy Thais sulking and burning Singaporean flags everywhere. Come on Thailand, grow the f### up! Sport should be played in a sportsmanlike fashion.



Fuel surcharge and Thailand's big huff....

New UK fuel surcharge...

Not long now and the daughter and I are heading back to Thailand. The government here has brought in a new fuel surcharge today. Great idea and, so long as the money is genuinely used to counter the effect of the increased quantity of air traffic, then I'm for it. However, they are back dating it so even if your flight was booked and paid for some time ago you will still have to stump up the cash when you check in. I've been told it's £40 (US$80) per person. I can't believe that but I guess I'll find out tomorrow. Yet another tax in Blair's Britain.

Sad to be leaving, after four weeks we 're just getting settled here. Not much else to write at the moment, time for a beer.

New UK fuel surcharge...

Terrorists in UK and Thai/Singapore football nonsense....

New business venture giving me a serious headache at the moment. Name change, web site style change, and simply not get enough time to actually work on it.

Another outbreak of nastiness here in England. Several Muslim residents of Birmingham have been arrested following a six month operation by security services. They were allegedly plotting to kidnap a British Muslim soldier and film his torture and eventual decapitation, and post it on the net. Nice. The soldier is now under police protection and hopefully the suspects, if found guilty, will have the key thrown away.

I see Singapore have beaten Thailand at football. The Thais were apparently pissed off when Singapore were awarded a penalty, which resulted in the whole team throwing a big hissy fit on the sidelines, refusing to carry on play until being persuaded to return to the field. This of course after man-handling the ref. Ah yes, the traditional Thai/Buddhist notion of tolerance in play there I see. Sunday's game will be amusing. I predict Thailand will win, they have a habit of winning on their home turf, even when they don't. There's talk of a bit of crowd violence. Is stamping off the pitch with your handbag, huffing and puffing, really part of the spirit of the beautiful game?

Terrorists in UK and Thai/Singapore football nonsense....