EARLY in Thailand

U.S. State Department Travel Info-Laos

This is the U.S. State Department Travel Information on Laos. It is not really as bad as they make it sound………..

Funeral for 4 Fallen Heroes

4-Down. 20,000 came. The Tacoma, Washington police funeral.

Don’t Believe Your Eyes…….

What could happen to those photos of yours posted on the social networking sites and in your emails?

See the “Girls Aloud”….

Map of Chiang Mai ToyRide Events

Here is a map showing Past Events and Upcoming Events (when available), including links and photos.

When the Killing Hour Arrives

There had not been any executions in Thai prisons for some six years. Without any notice, someone decided for two prisoners, “Today you are going to die!”

“No Reservations in Thailand”-Anthony Bourdain Show

A video of Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations” TV show filmed in Thailand. A very well done segment.

Wat Hua Mai Kham -Remote Temple Trip

I was challenged to find this remote stupa, so I couldn’t refuse. It turned into one of my more enjoyable undertakings…….

“Saving Face”, Lies and Deception

For me the most frustrating part of living in Thailand is the fact that you cannot trust ANYONE! This is one of the most depressing and troubling parts of living here. Yes, everything is not life in paradise…………

The Beaches

Southern Thailand is surrounded by the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. It is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and islands in the world.

A photo gallery.

One Night In Bangkok-The Video

A true classic music video by Murray Head. You need to have spent time here to truly appreciate it.

Chiang Mai- Rose of the North

Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand and many times called by guidebooks (incorrectly) the second largest city in Thailand. A major tourist center, it is an area of contradictions and confusion.

Here is a photo collage and a ‘Map Jack” tour of the Jewel of the North…

Khun Tan Railway Station and Tunnel

A nice ride through the mountains and National Parks to a quaint railway station and tunnel in the mountains.

This is the main line from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and carries hundreds of passengers daily.

Books-Some Recommended Reading

I do a lot of reading of books here. One of the advantages of living in a Tourist / Backpacker center is that there is a plethora of “used book” stores.

Usually when I find an author I like, especially a series of books, I stick with it until I have read them all. I found author John Sandford and was hooked.

Yes! It bites.

One learns to live with many critters and insects and flora here. The first lesson is; “Everything bites, stings, or hurts you in some way”!

Help Make Children Happy!

I am very pleased to be the Co-Chairman of the organizing committee for the Chiang Mai ToyRide. Not only do we have the annual toy ride, we also use the proceeds and donations to assist kids throughout the year. We donate to hospitals, schools, and communities in any way that will help children in need………..

Where the Heck Are You??

Not everyone is familiar with S.E. Asia. Here you will find maps with waypoints to the main locations with links to an associated story. Just click.

Walking With Tigers

When I heard of a temple where one could walk with tigers, I had to find it. It is not listed in many guidebooks as some consider it too dangerous (by Western standards). It is commonly called the “Tiger Temple” it presents an unforgettable experience This post includes a CNN video on a Tiger Temple special project; identifying tigers by their stripes………

What’s THAT in the Toaster?

Another critter tale. Sorry “Fred”……

Battle of the Water Pump

Simple, I need to water the grass and flowers. How hard can it be? A city boy learns some lessons.

Curse of the Hill Tribe Woman

I planned to do a solo trip to Northern Laos both for my own satisfaction and to get some new GPS tracks. As it turned out a number of other riders rode some of the same routes a week or so before me although I didn’t read their updated reports until after I returned. It seems they had a lot fewer “dramas” than I did and I can only attribute that to the “Curse of the Hill Tribe Woman”. Don’t believe me? …………