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The Condos will increase about 80 per cent in the next year. As the rich Thais from Issan and the rest of country buy in Bangkok. We forget the the Thai are very rich Remember they just tell stories to get money from us. Many bar girls have millions of Baht in the Bank. Now is the time to buy.Hard to belive thai girls and family can Not keep and save money. This must be new. They spend the money not saving its theier culture since ever and will not change.
The Condos will increase about 80 per cent in the next year. As the rich Thais from Issan and the rest of country buy in Bangkok. We forget the the Thai are very rich Remember they just tell stories to get money from us. Many bar girls have millions of Baht in the Bank. Now is the time to buy.
RICH?? - ROFLMAO - they are few and far between (if they were RICH would there BE so many BGs?)
Old Thai Hand
10-06-06, 01:34
The Condos will increase about 80 per cent in the next year. As the rich Thais from Issan and the rest of country buy in Bangkok. We forget the the Thai are very rich Remember they just tell stories to get money from us. Many bar girls have millions of Baht in the Bank. Now is the time to buy.
This is without a doubt one of the funniest (and most stupid) posts I've ever read. ROTFLMAO
This is without a doubt one of the funniest (and most stupid) posts I've ever read. ROTFLMAOMaybe he has condos to sell.
I would not want to invest a single baht in a country where your rights depend so much on the mood of the officer or his need for money on that very day.
Old Thai Hand
10-06-06, 05:51
Maybe he has condos to sell.
I would not want to invest a single baht in a country where your rights depend so much on the mood of the officer or his need for money on that very day.
You're missing the point.
a/ 80% increase in market value for condos (LOL)
b/ rich Thais from Isaan (LOL)
c/ BGs with millions of baht in the bank (LOL)
BTW. It is not difficult to stay here. Get a job. Get a work permit. Get a Non-Imm. B visa. Buy a condo. Everyone else, stop complaining.
Hard to belive thai girls and family can Not keep and save money. This must be new. They spend the money not saving its theier culture since ever and will not change.I live with a ex bar girl for 12 years in Issan she has about 25 familiy members both male and females working in bars.
I take care of their money and believe me the poorest makes at least a 2 million a year with all their bull #### from farangs and invested their money thru me.
Thais are very rich. Richer than Europeans mongers.
You're missing the point.
a/ 80% increase in market value for condos (LOL)
b/ Rich Thais from Isaan (LOL)
c/ BGs with millions of baht in the bank (LOL)
BTW. It is not difficult to stay here. Get a job. Get a work permit. Get a Non-Imm. B visa. Buy a condo. Everyone else, stop complaining.It is difficult to stay in Thailand. Not all job provide visa work permit. You need 3 million baht to open a company and getting a work permit. And apart from Hotel Jobs marketing or Chef there is hardly job available for Expat. Teacher Ok but hard to get work permit. Work permit rule looks easy but is not. I just open a new company but i don t need work permit for myself. Laywer told me anyhow very difficult to get it. But with 3 mllion in Bank may be OK.
Just to say get a Job Work Permit not easy. Non B yes easy in home country.
Hotel business very easy to get work permit.
Old Thai Hand
10-07-06, 10:00
It is difficult to stay in Thailand. Not all job provide visa work permit. You need 3 million baht to open a company and getting a work permit. And apart from Hotel Jobs marketing or Chef there is hardly job available for Expat. Teacher Ok but hard to get work permit. Work permit rule looks easy but is not. I just open a new company but i don t need work permit for myself. Laywer told me anyhow very difficult to get it. But with 3 mllion in Bank may be OK.
Just to say get a Job Work Permit not easy. Non B yes easy in home country.
Hotel business very easy to get work permit.
Admittedly, this is at least partially true.
But, I've been here 10 years and have never had any problem getting a work permit. Not only have I been a teacher, but I have also worked in advertising and the media business. But, I will admit that I have considerable experience in a variety of fields which has made me marketable here. If you don't have much work experience and/or specific skills in demand here, it's difficult to work.
BTW, although it's been said before, English-teaching is not worth the bother unless you teach at a first-tier university or international school, and those jobs are few and far between and require considerable qualifications.
The new visa regulations are impacting all of this greatly. There have been some horror stories already. I heard of a female teacher, already working in Bangkok, WITH A WORK PERMIT who was turned down for a new visa in Singapore last week because she only has a BA and the immigration officer told her she wasn't qualified for the job, which he said required an MA. A colleague went to renew his visa, and although there was no doubt he would get it, he was interviewed for 15 minutes and had to show his CV, degrees, transcripts, current work permit and present an official letter from his employer.
However, a friend in immigration told me that the new rules might relax a bit and settle back to somewhere between where they were before and the current strictness.
http://www.pittsburghpostgazette.com/pg/06279/727963-100.stm
The admin seems down on ladyboys/katoyes etc. If you do feel the need to search one out, please read the above especially if getting castrated and dying is your thing. Personally, I have nothing against katoeys but their wires are seriously crossed. And I prefer to keep my own wire.
(typing with my legs crossed)
Old Thai Hand
10-07-06, 18:29
I live with a ex bar girl for 12 years in Issan she has about 25 familiy members both male and females working in bars.
I take care of their money and believe me the poorest makes at least a 2 million a year with all their bull #### from farangs and invested their money thru me.
Thais are very rich. Richer than Europeans mongers.
Not meaning to cast doubt on the voracity of this little tale. But, in a word...BULLSHIT!!!
I just returned from a trip, and got my first "post-new Immingration rules" stamp. I noticed the Immigration officer used a green highlighter to highlight what she wrote adjacent to the "Visa Class" portion. Can't quite decipher what she wrote, but possibly "30", which appears consistent with other stamps. This last one is the only one that is highlighted, though.
I suppose it's anyone's guess as to what it means, but things should get interesting in about 3 months....
Cheers,
-Y
I live with a ex bar girl for 12 years in Issan she has about 25 familiy members both male and females working in bars.
I take care of their money and believe me the poorest makes at least a 2 million a year with all their bull #### from farangs and invested their money thru me.
Thais are very rich. Richer than Europeans mongers.
Sure they do - you ever see their bank book? To make that much they would have to be at least NINES and speak ANGRIT (maybe YELLAMAN) essentially FLUENTLY, have a mind like a steel trap (to keep them sorted out) and would be perfect as used car salespersons.
Where you get the good stuff you are smoking? Any more out there?
ROFLMAO - I don't live here (just enjoy visiting) but my THAI friends (I HAVE lots of them) in the US would "disagree" substantially with your "report"
http://www.pittsburghpostgazette.com/pg/06279/727963-100.stm
The admin seems down on ladyboys/katoyes etc. If you do feel the need to search one out, please read the above especially if getting castrated and dying is your thing. Personally, I have nothing against katoeys but their wires are seriously crossed. And I prefer to keep my own wire.
(typing with my legs crossed)
Don't want the "Bobbit" treatment, huh? (in case you don't understand google Lorena Bobbit (maybe 2 t's) - she gave her husband the "duck treatment" "BOBBed it") <snicker>
http://*******.com/q6s5u
The one armed prostitute goes back to work. Though Jocks might well be wired to the moon, it shows howc desperate these women and their pimps are.
http://*******.com/q6s5u
The one armed prostitute goes back to work. Though Jocks might well be wired to the moon, it shows howc desperate these women and their pimps are.Absolutely no relevance to Living In Thailand the same as your last post with a link to an article in the Pittsburgh Post ??
LittleBigMan
10-11-06, 01:27
Meaty,
In your earlier post concerning new changes in visa's what is your take on the statement that indicate " checks will be made in future to ensure cash " can you clarify this statement for me.
Thanks,
LBM
what is your take on the statement that indicate " checks will be made in future to ensure cash "
From what i have read on other forums with more well informed contacts, the checking of cash is to prevent those applicants who were transfering the required amount of money into their accounts, photocopying their bank books showing the balance and then sending the money back to where it came from, in some cases a freind, or a bank loan or whatever, so in effect these applicants did not have the money they required, but they were able to make it appear as if they did. Now the money will need to be in the Thai account for 3 months prior to the application and remain in the account for 3 months after the application is approved, in theory reducing the 'borrowers'. How this will be enforced is anyones guess, and if it is in fact true is also anyones guess, Thailand changes and suddenly enforces many drastic, and for some, potentially life changing immigration rules periodically, what tends to happen is a big splash of concern, panic and worry, the dregs pull out, the ones who can afford get straight, and the rest stay as they are, invariably after the big panic things die down and end up somewhere inbetween where they were and where it was said they were going, unfortunately TIT and you just never know.
LittleBigMan
10-13-06, 23:11
Meaty,
Thanks for the reply on my question. I must be getting old and tired. Went back and looked at the posting again and realized what it was saying. I don't have a problem with the amount of money staying in the bank for a marriage visa of 400,000 but I was wondering if the monthly required amount from a pension or other income is like the retirer visa amount 65,000 baht a month the same for a marriage visa? I will have to do some checking and research in this area myself. Thanks LBM
LBM: An easy and efficient way for the Thai authorities to do this would be to do spot checks. Say they get wind of an Everton supporter in Pattaya spouting off about Wayne Rooney suing a Toffee's supporter, as reported in today's BBC, then they could haul the targetted guy in, get his bank details, check them and if they don't stack up, deport him to Merseyside. I would imagine they will proceed this way but Everton should be way down the list, at least way behind the nightly army of foreign dickheads who get arrested in Pattaya. The old bill would have a good idea of who they want to fuck out.
The fact that the junta made an issue of this means it is an issue and a crackdown would no doubt be good evidence that they are saving the poor slappers of Pattaya from a fate worse than death. Pattaya, long term, is on borrowed time.
There was another good article about people traffickers and users of hookers on the BBC. Apparently the average profile of mongers is young 30s, married, white, middle class. Guess that rules out most people here who tend to be older and either truckies or whatever.
LittleBigMan
10-15-06, 00:11
Martians,
Thanks for the reply. But my situation does not include any type of work or business that would ever require anyone wanting to investigate my life or checking on my finances to see if I am moving money in and out of my account. My situation is nothing in the nature of being illegal. Just trying to live a simple life married to a Thai but need to find a legal way to obtaining a long term visa to live in Thailand. Under the marriage visa as noted by Meaty, the required amount is 400,000 baht in a bank to sit and stay which I have no problem with but I need to know if anything else is required like the retired visa which requires a monthly amount like 65,000 baht income coming like from a pension of sort!
Thanks, LBM
Terry Terrier
10-15-06, 01:05
but I need to know if anything else is required like the retired visa which requires a monthly amount like 65,000 baht income coming like from a pension of sort!Thanks, LBM
Is it that much? I recently talked with an elderly Scottish guy who told me that he was on the retirement visa with his UK £600 per month private pension (paid directly into a Thai bank).
The blue part of Liverpool at least, we can still summon up enough spirit for LBM.
1. LBM, I have enjoyed your posts. I noticed you have have done some time and are trying to settle down. I wish you well.
2. You are probably a tad nervous about the coup fucking up your future plans. No need to be.
3. The Thai authorities/military have no problem with people like you. They are interested in drug smugglers, Liberpool fans, Russian contract killers, shit like that.
4. Go to those expat meetings on Beach Road, soi 1, the restaurant on Saturday mornings and ask your questions. Network. Pay NO money under any circumstances.
5. If you have an expat mate with a good passport (US, EU etc) and is not a wanker, get them to make a written request to their embassy or consular office.
6. I would suggest the Dogs Bollox as being perfect for this but you probably have your own sources. If you don't, you should develop them as you are not getting any younger.
7. They are not interested in people like you. But the older people get, the more worried they become. Not all expats in Pattaya are sexpats. Many are well fixed up Western couples who like the convenience. Thailand would make more money if it could get rid of the riff raff and trouble makers. You are not in that group. But just check semi officially as per the above.
The Traveler
10-31-06, 00:19
I live with a ex bar girl for 12 years in Issan she has about 25 familiy members both male and females working in bars.
I take care of their money and believe me the poorest makes at least a 2 million a year with all their bull #### from farangs and invested their money thru me.
Thais are very rich. Richer than Europeans mongers.
Esbobes,
yep, so true, all these bargirls earn a fortune. That must be the reason why they do these jobs for so long. I guess the one that just hung herself in Pattaya last week because she couldn't afford to send her two kids 1500 baht per week was just too dump to do it right.
Met a bargirl last week who showed me her tax clearance. She made 625.000 alone on tips and another 2.7 million with self-employed work. Asked her what kind of work that was and she described it as working freelance in the service department. Any idea what she was talking about ?
Nevertheless she asked me if I knew someone who could take care of a small stake of her savings (17.8 million at Krung Thai Bank). I told her I am the right one and that I will safely invest it for her in high leveraged options in the commodity market. She immediately agreed and will tell her friends at the bar to follow her example. Maybe I can make a living on that. What do you think ?
Do you charge your GF's relatives and if yes, a fixed fee or a percentage ?
Thanks in advance for your precious input.
The Traveler
10-31-06, 01:17
Hi I'm Australian, and I'm thinking of buying a property in pattaya? Has anyone here ever bought a unit (condo) here? Alot of the places on offer are a great price.....Any advice people can give me can be helpfull. Is it much of a hassle, downfall involved. Any web sites that can offer advice
Thanks Dan
Dan TheMan,
just like you I intended to buy a condo and kept looking for a decent place for quite some time. I had a look at numerous properties of all sorts in all parts of the market during my last trips.
If your preferences are similar to mine and if you look for a place at around 100m², large balcony/terrace, covered car parking, good building quality (no thin walls !), tight security (key card/fingerprint security system for proximity access) and 24h manned security plus a good management you will end up with 55.000 - 58.000 baht/m².
Not really a bargain. Sure, there are thousands of cheaper small studios or 1 bedroom apartments on the market but they provide no "extras" that make them somehow special in case you want/need to sell or which make life nice. They are on the market for quite some time and do you really want to live like a sardine in a can, with neighbours who will wake you up at 6am by making their daily "somtam" ?
I also believe that prices of this sort of property will come down for several reasons (visa regulations, deflating real estate bubbles in US and UK, rising interest rates etc.).
I only found two properties which could be considered :
1.) Prime Suites : A new condo construction directly behind Foodland (location !), 92m², 6th floor, 5.3 million, managed by CBRE
2.) Executive Residence 3, 90m², 2nd floor, 4.4 million with a nice view. It's on the hill close to Cosy Beach Hotel. Don't know who will manage it but not the smartest security system. Lift need key card but the stairs directly at the lift are open without doors. What can I say, that's Thailand.
Due to that I bought myself a nice plot of land and will build a Thai-Bali style villa with pool (western building standards) in a village at the high end of the market. Good location with great views, all utility lines underground, smart western management, very tight security and so on. Sure, you will have to pay more than for a condo but you will get far more for your hard earned bucks and a property like this still has some upward potential.
The typical condo on the other hand has reached it's top IMHO.
I had a look at newly renovated and refurbished condos at Baan Suan Lalana about 6 months ago for example. The sales guy tried to tell me that prices will be up by 25% as soon as the new airport is open. I never got why the new airport should boost property prices as it makes no difference if you have to travel 120 or 150 kms to the airport. And I seem to be right, the condo (88m²) was offered for 3 million half a year ago and is now for sale at 2.8 million even though the new airport is already in operation.
If you are aiming for the low end of the market or a mid-range condo do wait some time. The market is big and there will always be objects that do fit your needs and wallet. The high-end on the other hand will always keep it's value and may rather go up as more and more Asians coming into the market and good locations are limited.
After reading Esbobes posts I know where to come for comic relief.
1. First off I do not know any Thai Girl that buys a condo. They may have a condo from their sponsor, but they would not purchase one for themselves. If they had the money they would purchase a shop house for a business or build/buy a house on a piece of land.
2. The average BG makes 20 > 30K THB a month. Ok there are stunners that are making from 100 to 200K a month, but they are few and far between. The best earners are G-Club girls with multiple sponsors pulling in 150K and up, but most of those girls are not from Issan.
3. How many TG's would trust a farang to manage their money? LOL
Now to anyone thinking about living here. I would recommend buying a condo over a house. Nonwithstanding the ownership rules, a house is just a lot of work. The environment here in Thailand is very caustic requiring ongoing maintenance like you would not believe. So if you buy a house just better be prepared to be a handyman or put one on the payroll.
House contsruction using old style materials such as teak wood fare much better than the new type of concrete/stucco construction.
LittleBigMan
11-04-06, 12:36
Martians,
Your remarks to question (4), What is the restuarant name and location, is that Soi 1 north,central, or south of beach road. Didn't check my earlier so missed this Saturday. Will scope it out next Saturday!
Thanks,LBM
The Traveler
11-05-06, 11:07
Now to anyone thinking about living here. I would recommend buying a condo over a house. Nonwithstanding the ownership rules, a house is just a lot of work. The environment here in Thailand is very caustic requiring ongoing maintenance like you would not believe. So if you buy a house just better be prepared to be a handyman or put one on the payroll.
House contsruction using old style materials such as teak wood fare much better than the new type of concrete/stucco construction.
Thaid Up,
I agree that condos are more "convienient" as you leave all work to the management. The problem is, that there aren't many well managed buildings on the market. Sadly too many condos look like shit after a couple of years, when the paint is coming off and the public areas are worn down.
Furthermore all repairs/enhancements in a condo - even if you do not want/use them - must be paid by you. So check if there is a sinking fund in place and hope that the money was invested well.
Additionally I don't like big condo buildings. The view at the 32nd floor might be great but in case of fire it can cause problems. Those condos usually aren't quite safe too. Due to the high number of units in such a building the guards can't remember who is living there and who isn't. As a result everybody can go in and out as they wish. only smaller buildings or those with modern security systems are different.
There are many other issues that should be considered. I for my part came to the conclusion that a nice villa with private pool in a high end village buys me more for the buck than those overpriced condos.
Finally I like to add that teak wood is very expensive in LOS so such houses must be more expensive. But keep in mind that termites might still cause a prob to those houses.
LittleBigMan
11-09-06, 04:15
Condo vs. House,
T.T. has it right. If I was a single man ( which I am not ) I would not buy a condo pretty much because of what T.T. has just indicated! Not needing much space If I were to live in a condo I would keep my assets to a minimum and my option constantly open. Once the condo starts to become a problem I would start to look for another set-up.
But comes ownership comes problems, maybe that's why I'm showing white hair! Traveler are you up on the hill near the buddist temple!
LBM
Can anyone recommend a decent venue for a turkey Christmas Dinner, suitable for all the family, in Bangkok ?
I tend to enjoy Christmas as much as the kids, so it's one of the few times I blow caution to the wind and spend whatever it costs. I'm not looking for a sunday lunch at Jools or Bullys, I want a proper, family type restaraunt, perhaps in one of the larger hotels ?
Any help is appreciated, i'm obviously using all the wrong words in Google !
Can anyone recommend a decent venue for a turkey Christmas Dinner, suitable for all the family, in Bangkok ?
Meaty,
Livingstone's Lodge. Without Giotto, he eats turkey in Germany :( ! So the venue should be suitable for all the family then :D.
Giotto
Can anyone recommend a decent venue for a turkey Christmas Dinner, suitable for all the family, in Bangkok?
I tend to enjoy Christmas as much as the kids, so it's one of the few times I blow caution to the wind and spend whatever it costs. I'm not looking for a sunday lunch at Jools or Bullys, I want a proper, family type restaraunt, perhaps in one of the larger hotels?
Any help is appreciated, i'm obviously using all the wrong words in Google !If you like German christmas atmosphere there is a place OTTO german restaurant special christman diner early booking need. I think its soi 20 sukhumvit.
After reading over the POSTS contained in this section, I guess I'm one of the lucky few that hit the TG jackpot.
When I first met my lovely Oun back in the summer of 2004, I didn't know anything about her family's overall financial situation. Basically, (like many other men before me) I had discovered a totally sexy, extremely cute, and cheerfully fun 25 year old women.
Unlike other TGs which had journeyed back to room #1102 at the J.W. Marriott, this sweet, young lady appeared much different than all the rest. Call me crazy, but my gut feeling was this girl different!
For the record, back in 1983, I contracted a rather bad case of Yellow Fever. Sadly, I haven't completely enjoyed the blonde hair, blue eye mongering scene ever since.
Granted, while I've made several mongering pilgrimages to Frankfurt's famous RLD and crossed into the Czech Republic for a few nights of border fun, I've always preferred the look and feel of Asian women.
Anyhow, back to the main story:
When I met Oun, at the time, my semi-retirement was scheduled for the Summer of 2007. Each time I had traveled to Thailand on business, I thought to myself...
"I really could live a much happier life on a lot less money in Thailand."
Once again, for those still following along, this lovesick story gets a bit more absurd. Upon arriving back to the good old U.S. of A., I hired a Private Detective (via the internet) to relocate my mystery TG. For a 42 year old man, the whole affair was like re-living my teenage years. It's amazing what a few hours of GREAT SEX and laughter will do to the mind, heart and wallet.
At this point, you may ask the question, "Did the detective relocate my Oun."
Yes. And thankfully I learned a lot more about her family. Unlike most TGs from the big city, many countryside girls are cash poor but LAND rich.
(see attached photo of the my latest 10,000 baht rice harvest).
Indeed, as I read the POSTS regarding this latest mongering debate, I ask "why buy a CONDO when you can find a TG that already has land and a house?"
Your money plus her land equals security!
Anyhow, you may be wondering long it took to relocate my Oun?
Believe it or not...just four working days. Considering I only knew her nickname and that she had worked in a jeans factory for ten years...I'd say the detective service was quite excellent.
Here's a suggestion for future ex-pats:
It's a good idea to monitor your TG investment. Indeed, most Western-types may what to consider hiring a detective few months. You'd be amazed how many TGs become completely faithful to three or four different guys from Germany, Italy and England. A talented bar girl can live quite well off the victums of Yellow Fever.
Once I decided to make my own monthly CASH investment (i.e. in this particular TG), I conducted some researched her past, present and future history. For those still reading along, let me state for the record, I'm certainly NOT THE FIRST middle-aged man bitten by the Thai Girl love bug. However, I wasn't going to pour my money into just any pretty river. And if you've seen the water that flow through Bangkok...then you know what I'm talking about. Lol.
Indeed, I would venture to say most WESTERN-TYPE mongers travel to second and third world countries for more than just sex.
Attached is a cell phone image of my latest rice harvest. My gf only spent 10,000 baht to plant and harvest her family's farm. These days, I watch the clock and count down the days until I become an official ex-pat living the goodlife in the LOS.
EDITOR'S NOTE: I certainly hope that the author or somebody else will post a link to this report in the Reports of Distinction thread. Please Click Here (http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/announcement-reportsofdistinction.php?) for more information.
One Tree Hill
11-22-06, 15:45
Any good reccomdations here?
I am aware of Bourbon St. and Queens Park Hotel.
Old Thai Hand
11-22-06, 17:31
Can anyone recommend a decent venue for a turkey Christmas Dinner, suitable for all the family, in Bangkok ?
I tend to enjoy Christmas as much as the kids, so it's one of the few times I blow caution to the wind and spend whatever it costs. I'm not looking for a sunday lunch at Jools or Bullys, I want a proper, family type restaraunt, perhaps in one of the larger hotels ?
Any help is appreciated, i'm obviously using all the wrong words in Google !
The Holiday Inn (Silom) Christmas Buffet. I go every year. They have everything but the kitchen sink, from Sushi to Turkey and all points in between. Awesome dessert table. Impossible to try everything, there's so much. It was 1300 baht last year...an absolute bargain, IMHO.
Oh...and party hats, too.
Retired Army
11-22-06, 17:34
Can anyone recommend a decent venue for a turkey Christmas Dinner, suitable for all the family, in Bangkok ?
I tend to enjoy Christmas as much as the kids, so it's one of the few times I blow caution to the wind and spend whatever it costs. I'm not looking for a sunday lunch at Jools or Bullys, I want a proper, family type restaraunt, perhaps in one of the larger hotels ?
Any help is appreciated, i'm obviously using all the wrong words in Google !
Call the Community Laision Office (CLO) at the American Embassy. They will be able to direct you to a good place. 02 205 4000 ask for the CLO Office.
The club at the Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) on Satorn Road might be doing something.
The Traveler
11-22-06, 22:27
...
Unlike most TGs from the big city, many countryside girls are cash poor but LAND rich.
...
Attached is a cell phone image of my latest rice harvest. My gf only spent 10,000 baht to plant and harvest her family's farm.
...
Chitrapa,
nice story and good to see you are happy with what you got.
But please do not believe that many countryside girls are land rich.
First, in most cases the land belongs to the parents or grandparents, if not rented from someone else.
Second, land - especially farm land - is very cheap in LOS. 1 rai in Isaan will cost about 30.000 baht, depending on location. A plot of land close to any highway, a village or even in town may of course be much more expensive.
You say that she spent ONLY 10.000 baht (including seed, fertilizer, renting out machines and hiring people to help harvesting ?).
What do you believe is the harvest on your pic worth ?
One bag is about 400 bath (depending on grade and quality), so she needs at least 25 bags to get even. The rest must be enough to feed the whole family plus school fees for a whole year. All in all not much for very hard work.
chitrapa,
In a simple way and from experience. Once they see and trust you that you sponsor them. They will slowly stop theier work. Find many excuse for not plant rice. And your money will be used for something else. But by that time you staying with them with your girl in the village iits to late. They got you and your money. So my advise don't go for this you will loose your money same of hundreds have loose before.
Thanks for the Christmas tips guys.
Chitrapa, same sentiments as TT, glad to hear a happy story, hope things continue that way for you. Have to disagree with this statement though..
Indeed, as I read the POSTS regarding this latest mongering debate, I ask "why buy a CONDO when you can find a TG that already has land and a house?"
Your money plus her land equals security!
I don't see how this provides any security, if anything it enhances the risk, you cannot own the land, therefore you cannot own the property on it, (ok theres leases and company ownership, but at the end of the day thats all bollox, if she wants you out, a Thai lawyer will rip your farrang loophole to shreds). So you have zero security, it's win win all the way for these girls, your contributions pay for 'your' new house, which is actually hers, how many times have long term bro's seen marriages end shortly after the house was finished ?
As for yellow fever, i had that, but have since contracted AIDS which is much worse, Asian Induced Divorce Syndrome :D
First, thus far, ALL the comments regarding my previous post are completely valid. It's true that fantasy often times overpowers a man's ability to practice good, old-fashion common sense. Indeed, throughout mankinds meager existence on this earth, most failed decisions regarding relationships, marriage and sex started and ended in the bedroom.
Second, if security is a major factor in how a man actually lives his life, then the mongering lifestyle must be avoided at all costs. Indeed, it only takes one broken condom with the wrong BG to destroy a secure future. I would say, generally speaking, security is an idea valued much more by women then men. Indeed, Mongering Men are true risk takers.
Does anyone honestly believe all those beautiful, young, sexy women that continue to live with Hugh Hefner are interested in just his mind and/or body?
While I've suffered from Yellow Fever for more than 25 years, I've learned that it's better to keep an Asian Woman in Asia. Then to bring her back to Canada, Europe or the United States. It doesn't matter if a lawyer lives in Thailand, Australia or Germany. The end results of divorce are usually the same. Men pay. Thus, I don't plan on getting married again.
Sure, I may have a traditional Buddhist ceremony...but as far as filing the actual paperwork. I'd be a complete fool to seal the deal immediately upon my arrival in the LOS. Asian Induced Divorce Syndrome has caused far more economic deaths than Yellow Fever. lol.
While any TG can kick me off the farm. No one will ever be able to touch my direct-deposit retirement check. Also, my hidden retirement nest-egg money won't be spent building a new house or condo.
At the end of the day, if given a choice, I'd rather live with a Thai Girl that already owns land and a house, than one who pays 3,000 baht a month for a single room apartment in Bangkok.
Question:
I was wondering why nobody commented about my passage on hiring a Private Detective to conduct a background check. Remember, once a monger always a monger. I believe this idea works the same for both men and women.
And finally, or the record. My 10,000 baht investment bought 62 bags of rice.
More to follow...
Retired Army
11-23-06, 08:20
If you like German christmas atmosphere there is a place OTTO german restaurant special christman diner early booking need. I think its soi 20 sukhumvit.
It's Bie Otto on Sukhumvit Soi 20. An excellent German restaurant that has it's own butcher shop. Highly recommended.
The Traveler
11-23-06, 22:03
I don't see how this provides any security, if anything it enhances the risk, you cannot own the land, therefore you cannot own the property on it, (ok theres leases and company ownership, but at the end of the day thats all bollox, if she wants you out, a Thai lawyer will rip your farrang loophole to shreds). So you have zero security, it's win win all the way for these girls, your contributions pay for 'your' new house, which is actually hers, how many times have long term bro's seen marriages end shortly after the house was finished ?
Meaty,
I think you misunderstood him. He clearly stated, that the girl already owns some land and a house, he never mentioned to build a new one or even trying to "buy" some land.
The Traveler
11-23-06, 22:22
At the end of the day, if given a choice, I'd rather live with a Thai Girl that already owns land and a house, than one who pays 3,000 baht a month for a single room apartment in Bangkok.
Chitrapa,
I doubt that you will like it upcountry.
Of course it's nice for some time, but you will soon miss the infrastructure (restaurants, cinemas ... ) of a developed environment. Usually only those without any money or visa stay at those very tiny villages.
Question:
I was wondering why nobody commented about my passage on hiring a Private Detective to conduct a background check. Remember, once a monger always a monger. I believe this idea works the same for both men and women.
Where is your question ?
That's a statement.
Nevertheless I think you probably could have found her yourself. detectives are no magicians. It's OK if you hire them to find a person but don't hire them to observe your GF. They may contact your girl and ask for "donations" in exchange for not blackmailing them. So don't put too much trust in them.
There are reliable ones and others in this biz.
And finally, or the record. My 10,000 baht investment bought 62 bags of rice.
Does it really include all costs ? (it's possible)
Nevertheless, those 62 bags are what you can get (maybe 70 or 80 in a good year). That's of course no security. You simply forget how many people worked free of charge (her family) to get it and how long it has to feed them.
Chitrapa,
I doubt that you will like it upcountry.
Of course it's nice for some time, but you will soon miss the infrastructure (restaurants, cinemas ... ) of a developed environment. Usually only those without any money or visa stay at those very tiny villages.
Where is your question ?
That's a statement.
Nevertheless I think you probably could have found her yourself. detectives are no magicians. It's OK if you hire them to find a person but don't hire them to observe your GF. They may contact your girl and ask for "donations" in change for not blackmailing them. So don't put too much trust in them.
There are reliable ones and others in this biz.
Does it really include all costs ? (it's possible)
Nevertheless, those 62 bags are what you can get (maybe 70 or 80 in a good year). That's of course no security. You simply forget how many people worked free of charge (her family) to get it and how long it has to feed them.May be you are one of those guy who think bad story do not happen to me I have check every thing no bad story. And the the traveler is right a private investigation can not find out what is in the mind of this up country people. You know I also was sure nothing will happen to me I loose more then 200000 baht on a fish farm. For the simply reason I had to much money on that time and those village people went to lasy to work for me. The brother of my girl even loose the truck I buy for them.
Borow money to get married can not pay back then truck gone. Yes it was my truck but I was not the driver. So offcialy it was not my truck by thai low. Truck gone because I have decide not to buy it back.
I am not so good in writting this story and others I know.
May be some over member with experience can give you wise advice and may be you listen to us. And come back to this forum once you have sponsor another 10. 000 baht because they will come up with a story shortly to you. Today I am not so good writting but next I will post some stories.
How a south african guy retired have loose tree million baht in 6 month. He also told me this will never happen to me. Today he is back south africa working again to make a new pension fund.
Meaty,
I think you misunderstood him. He clearly stated, that the girl already owns some land and a house, he never mentioned to build a new one or even trying to "buy" some land.
No, i did understand TT, She owns lots of land, and she owns a house, the house will probably be old (base on their family income of 14,800 baht per year from the rice) and certainly of no standard for a westerner to live in long term, so at some point, a conversation will be had about, improving the house, perhaps adding aircon because you are so hot, but then the walls are made of wood, so we need to insulate them, and the windows will let all the aircon out, so we need to replace them, and then theres no water pressure so we need a pump, and a hot shower would be nice instead of the water and bucket job...the list can go on, and i would suggest a very large portion of westerners could not hack living in Isaan, I agree with you that it might be nice for a week or 2 but months or years, for me too, would be a total nightmare.
Meaty is 100% correct when he states that older homes can quickly become a money pit.
Indeed, I'd like to take this simple idea one step further...
Honestly, it doesn't matter if you live in Bangkok, Tokyo, New York City, Paris or Frankfurt, any location that contains four walls, a window and a front door will usually cost a man a certain percentage of his monthly paycheck. Housing, unless an individual plans on remaining homeless, will always cost more than just a few thousand BAHT.
True budget-minded mongers, in their quest to save a few euros , often refer to this very board to secure the best hotel rates. Additionally, a motel's location and distance from active mongering areas can generally reduce the overall cash spent on TUK-TUK and taxi rides.
The question then becomes: What are a slightly linking roof, hand-washed clothes and one or two home-cooked meals a week worth to a slightly-aged, almost-reformed monger? How important is a real shower and air-conditioning?
The title of this section is Living in Thailand. All I'm saying is "I'd rather not purchase a HOUSE or CONDO."
For those traveling mongers attempting to reform their lives, all I'm stating is it's a smart idea to shop around and survey ALL your options.
Why do most YOUNG TGs marry OLDER western men? Could one of the main reasons be financial security?
For the record, I've slept in tents in Suriname, Somalia, Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq. My overall definition of quality-of-life is somewhat different than most Western-minded Mongers. I'm not afraid of foreign subways or short hikes across a city.
And finally, the Traveler made extremely good points regarding the hiring of a private dectective. At the time (i.e. FALL 2004), I was unable to return to Bangkok and conduct a search on my own. In my original POSTING, I was just seeking other gents opinions regarding the monitoring of a gfs activities.
Some additional notes:
Not that anyone really cares, but the official count for this year's harvest was 103 bags of rice. While I know very little about farming, I guess it was an above average year.
Also, for the record, even if this particular farang wasn't in the financial picture, my girl friend's family would have still harvested the fields.
While many urban-dwelling Germans maintain a small country garden plot, and some Americans hunt moose or deer to put meat on the table.
In Thailand, planting rice and working a family garden remains a part of the natural order of life.
However, for future reference, if her family asks about starting up a Fish Farm...I think I'll get a few more business facts before I hand over 200,000 baht...lol.
Question: Have the political changes in Thailand seriously impacted the existing immigration laws?
I read MEATY's recent POSTING reference the VISA issue.
As of today, is the information contained in that POST still current?
Tough to decide on which of the forums to ask the question, but here I go:
I would like to stay a longer time in South east Asia for living cheap, lot of free and paid action.
1. Does anything speak against staying near the thai/Malaysia or thai/laos border in order to avoid long and expensive visa travels?
2. Regarding the age of consent in Thailand, I only found the number 15. Can anyone confirm this for both regarding involving money and not involving money? (I am 21 and in my country the legal age for sex worker is 16. So. I don't think I am asking something nasty here, hope so)
And regarding number two, anybody know the situation in China?
3. In the above mentioned boarder areas, can I get a room with aircon and maybe even bathtube for about up to 150 dollars a month?
Thank you very much in advance and be sure to expect/remind me of writing lots of reports about the cheap and of indonesia/Thailand/cambodia and maybe China in the next 6 to 20 months.
I would like to stay a longer time in South east Asia for living cheap, lot of free and paid action.
1. Does anything speak against staying near the thai/Malaysia or thai/laos border in order to avoid long and expensive visa travels?
Living near these borders should be pleasant, Dong. Nong Khai and Udon Thani are quite nice, with plenty of girls (for pay). Keep in mind, however, that the visa rules have changed and it is very difficult if not impossible to stay in Thailand for more than 3 months without the annoyance of a 'job'.
2. Regarding the age of consent in Thailand, I only found the number 15. Can anyone confirm this for both regarding involving money and not involving money? (I am 21 and in my country the legal age for sex worker is 16. So. I don't think I am asking something nasty here, hope so)
The age of consent is 15. However for paid sex it is 18, and since sex available to foreigners will be paid sex - or probably construed by the police as paid sex - in practice the age of consent for you is 18. These local laws are not an issue for we Americans, as our Religious State applies its own laws to its subjects even when we are out of the country! Out of curiosity, from which enlightened nation do you hail?
3. In the above mentioned boarder areas, can I get a room with aircon and maybe even bathtube for about up to 150 dollars a month?
It will be easy to find air-con rooms for $100-150/month, but bathtubs are uncommon.
Women are a financial investment. Sometimes, it's possible for a traveling monger to get an Xtremely lucky rate-of-return on his money. Indeed, for the cost of a movie, dinner and drinks, and a man may earn himself a FREEBIE (of sorts). Mix together a pinch of love and a promise of marriage, and it's possible for a woman to start picking up both the bar fine and tab.
Being a long term lurker of ISG, I'm amazed at how many armchair mongers think they can just fly into Thailand and screw the country's female population for free. No matter where you travel on this planet...there's always a COST associated with doing-the-deed (i.e. FS).
Honestly, if someone's worried about the small price of a VISA. it's just better for them to stay at home and sing together with ROSIE PALMS and the FIVE FINGERS. Sadly, everything in this world continues to have a price.
For example, if an individual desires FREE pictures of a girlfriend's breasts, the overall cost may include the price of upgrading her cell phone (i.e. to one that has a camera).
ADDITIONAL TRAVEL NOTE:
If you're going to tour Laos, the sleeper train from Bangkok to Nong Khai is a relaxing way to reach the border crossing near Vientiane. Also, according to Laotian Law, it's ILLEGAL for FARRANGs to have ANY sexual adventures with the locals. FREE SEX in Laos may mean having to make a serious choice between jail, marriage or both.
Opebo, thank you for the information and Chitapra... well... thank you for the reply.
I yet dont really get how to use the qoute Feature to write in the text of the quotet like Opebo did, so, i might mess up.
Women are a financial investment. Sometimes, it's possible for a traveling monger to get an Xtremely lucky rate-of-return on his money. Indeed, for the cost of a movie, dinner and drinks, and a man may earn himself a FREEBIE (of sorts). Mix together a pinch of love and a promise of marriage, and it's possible for a woman to start picking up both the bar fine and tab.
Being a long term lurker of ISG, I'm amazed at how many armchair mongers think they can just fly into Thailand and screw the country's female population for free. No matter where you travel on this planet...there's always a COST associated with doing-the-deed (i.e. FS).Well, I dont think i have to explain myself in detail and i certainly wo(now should there be an ' in here ?)nt. But lets just say that i already was in Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia and i already have an idea of what i can get with or without money and what i cant. Sorry if this wasnt obvious in my first post.
Honestly, if someone's worried about the small price of a VISA. it's just better for them to stay at home and sing together with ROSIE PALMS and the FIVE FINGERS. Sadly, everything in this world continues to have a price.I dont really mind the 20 or 30 dollar of a visa all that much. But just think of the 1 Month on arrivel Visa in Indonesia and the 100-200 Dollar Flight to Singapore or malaysia and you get my idea.
Or if one stays somewhere not near of a boarder in Thailand, the trip can still take a whole day or more to any of the available boarders.
but still, 20 dollar is what the factory workers in battam, 40 Minutes by boat from Singapore, earn in a month. And currently i simply dont like working, so why should i spill my free time (money) on visa?
ADDITIONAL TRAVEL NOTE:
If you're going to tour Laos, the sleeper train from Bangkok to Nong Khai is a relaxing way to reach the border crossing near Vientiane. Also, according to Laotian Law, it's ILLEGAL for FARRANGs to have ANY sexual adventures with the locals. FREE SEX in Laos may mean having to make a serious choice between jail, marriage or both.Well, that I know, but it really is an important and serios issue, so, thanks.
But what I would like to know is if this law in Laos has any consequences on the tolerance of the Lao people in Thailand or the North East Part of Thailand in general.
Living near these borders should be pleasant, Dong. Nong Khai and Udon Thani are quite nice, with plenty of girls (for pay). Keep in mind, however, that the visa rules have changed and it is very difficult if not impossible to stay in Thailand for more than 3 months without the annoyance of a 'job'.Thats why I thought about a place near a boarder. As far as I know getting more than the 1 Month tourist Visa is not easy and I remember something of a 15 dollar 3 days visa to laos. Perfekt visa run.
Last time i could get quite maintanence free girls in one of the southern Thai Islands, Malaysia and Indonesia. Are the girls in the northeast more careful or shy in that regard?
The age of consent is 15. However for paid sex it is 18, and since sex available to foreigners will be paid sex - or probably construed by the police as paid sex - in practice the age of consent for you is 18. These local laws are not an issue for we Americans, as our Religious State applies its own laws to its subjects even when we are out of the country! Out of curiosity, from which enlightened nation do you hail?One of the not EU countrys in the middle of europe, thats where I hail from.
But for some reason I am asking about the law in and the application in Thailand. I for myself wouldnt mind having this age (not for prostitution) put to the level of spain or some parts in mexico, [sarcasm AND irony tag]but it all depends on how far the pain of any person on this planet can be prevented by laws and regulations[/sarcasm AND irony tag].
Anyway, thank you for any information and in any case.
ADDITIONAL TRAVEL NOTE:
If you're going to tour Laos, the sleeper train from Bangkok to Nong Khai is a relaxing way to reach the border crossing near Vientiane. Also, according to Laotian Law, it's ILLEGAL for FARRANGs to have ANY sexual adventures with the locals. FREE SEX in Laos may mean having to make a serious choice between jail, marriage or both.And how about going on vacation with a Laos girl to thailand or Cambodia (just an idea that popped up in my mind)?
Retired Army
11-28-06, 08:32
Women are a financial investment. Sometimes, it's possible for a traveling monger to get an Xtremely lucky rate-of-return on his money. Indeed, for the cost of a movie, dinner and drinks, and a man may earn himself a FREEBIE (of sorts). Mix together a pinch of love and a promise of marriage, and it's possible for a woman to start picking up both the bar fine and tab...
...Being a long term lurker of ISG, I'm amazed at how many armchair mongers think they can just fly into Thailand and screw the country's female population for free. No matter where you travel on this planet...there's always a COST associated with doing-the-deed (i.e. FS).
The richest man I ever met had this advice: If it flies, floats or fucks; rent it.
Since I had such a great time in Thailand on my very first visit, (can’t get the place out of my mind), I’ve started thinking about how much more fun I could have on my next visit if I learned to speak the language as Dinghy has recommended. I’ve RTFF’ed this forum but found no useful information. I know the best way to learn a new language is to go to the country and immerse yourself in it, or take language classes but, since that’s not possible for me right now, I’ve looked into some sources on the web.
The best free sites I could find on the internet are How to learn Thai the easy way: http://www.learningthai.com/ which seems to be a good place to start, and a Thai/English dictionary: http://www.thai2english.com/ which is great for translating English words in to Thai and vice versa. I’ve started spending an hour or so each day at these sites trying to remember simple phrases, and familiarizing myself with the Thai alphabet. Though I’ve only been at it less than two weeks, the progress has been slow and it seems like a gargantuan task.
Rosetta Stone: http://www.rosettastone.com/en/individuals/languages/thai is another alternative which promises the fastest way to learn, and I’m tempted to try it, but the cost is $200, (well worth it if the claims are true), so I’m undecided about it so far.
My question is to you wise old timers here (OTH, Traveler1234, Dingy, RtA, etc.) who are living in Thailand and/or are fluent in the language. What do you suggest is the best method for me to quickly learn basic Thai – say within six months or so – from my home in the US? I’m sure there are others here beside myself who might also be interested.
Thanks,
Daddy
What is a country in Europe NOT in the EU?
Here's a short passage from the C.I.A. World Factbook:
a major international financial center vulnerable to the layering and integration stages of money laundering; despite significant legislation and reporting requirements, secrecy rules persist and nonresidents are permitted to conduct business through offshore entities and various intermediaries; transit country for and consumer of South American cocaine and Southwest Asian heroin
Before I wrote my last POST, I read over the comment history of Mr. Swiss Dong. Granted, I'm certainly not an ISG POSTING All-Star, but I found his question regarding age-of-consent very suspect.
NOTE: While I'm tired of Washington DCs moral police continued attempts at creating some new puritanical, fascist state. It's always been my understanding that 18 is STILL the MAGIC number for the ISG.
In terms of transporting a LAO woman across the border...I guess she'll need a passport (i.e. just like everyone else). When I was in Vientiane back in 2004, I hooked up with a rather nice Laotian girl. She said that her ex-boyfriend (a New Zealander) had taken on trips to Vietnam, and Cambodia.
So, is it possible? Yes.
Perhaps one reason why the Thai Government has never fully relaxed its immigration laws is because it fears being over-run by young, out-of-work, european street urchins begging on the street of Bangkok.
For those seeking a truly budget-minded travel destination. Check out the latest POSTS in the Ecuador section of ISG. 7 to 10 Dollar STs are widely available in Quito.
Before I close, I want to thank Retired Army for the quote of the week. There's much wisdom given those few short words.
Old Thai Hand
11-29-06, 17:33
Daddy
Although Thai is a fairly economic language in terms of vocabulary and grammar, the problem with trying to learn Thai outside the country is the alphabet and more significantly, pronunciation. Reading Thai words on the internet or in a book doesn't even begin to give you the nuance necessary for Thais to understand. I still have trouble sometimes being understood. It doesn't happen that often, anymore. But, then again, I've been here 10 years.
In countries that have lots of immigrants, like the US, or Canada for example, there are so many foreigners speaking fractured English that people's ears are generally more accustomed to hearing the language spoken in a variety of less-than-perfect accents.
But, in a homogenous country like Thailand that doesn't have a history of immigrants, and therefore much experience of outsiders speaking the language, Thais are only used to hearing Thais speak the language. So, there's a very narrow tolerance of language variation. Trust me; you could learn a load of vocab on the Internet, come here and nobody would understand a word you say. The "Ng" sound alone is a major hurdle to overcome for a newbie (I still sometimes fuck it up). Try asking for a "khao kai yang klup khai dao" (rice and grilled chicken with fried egg)..you have to learn ก (kaw kai), ข (khaw khai)...in otherwords...a G sound and a K sound that are often written in transliterated English as 'K' only. Then there's 'Ngu' (snake) and 'Nu' (mouse) which sound the same to the untrained ear. There are many sounds that actually don't even exist in Western languages, not to mention the 5 tones (but, 6 in the south and only 3 in Isaan dialect).
I still make amusing mistakes. I have a female student whose nickname is 'Jue'. I wasn't thinking one day and called here 'Jew' which is how we would probably pronouce 'Jue' in English. Well, 'Jue' pronounced 'Jew' means a baby boy's dick. The correct pronunciation of 'Jue' is kind of like 'J' and a combination of ah+uh+oo said together quickly with a falling tone. Except, that there is no exact 'J' sound in Thai. It's a combination of 'J' and 'CH', which is why Chatuckak is also called Jatujak Market. I can't think of any book that could help with something like that and there are tons of situations like that even in basic Thai. Learning the Thai alphabet certainly is a huge help because Thai is phonetic and therefore learning the correct pronunciation of the aphabet helps you make the proper sounds.
I don't know if it is possible, but if there are Thais where you live, find out if the community offers language courses. Alternately, see if you can at least find a Thai language book that includes an audio tape so that you can begin to hear how the language sounds. The expensive language book/course you mention might be worth it just to get the basics. Then you can practice when you come back. But, a Thai-speaking person is going to still be your best bet if you can find one where you live.
BTW, I'm not fluent. There is so much slang and variances in Thai, that I don't yet know, I consider myself barely competent. But, my bare competence does extend to speaking some Isaan dialect, which is a lot more fun to know when you're around BGs, because they really never expect a Farang to know their "code". It is a very different language than Thai and few Thais actually even understand it, beyond a few words.
My GF who is not a BG, but does come from Isaan, just expects me to speak Thai to her (because she barely knows any English) but, cracks up laughing in shock and surprise, whenever I suddenly switch to Isaan. Isaan is the one thing that Isaan people have over the Thais. They can pretty well say anything they want around Thais, including making fun of them (because they are usually the under-class to Thais) and the Thais don't have a clue what they're saying.
Example:
What is your name?
Thai: Khun chu arai
Isaan: Jao su ngian
Then...of course there's Lanna dialect in the north, southern dialect and Yawi in the deep south.
Basic greeting:
Thai: Sawasdee khrup. Sabai dee mai ('r' is generally not pronounced, especially in Bangkok dialect)
Isaan: Sabai dee bor or sabai dee hawk ('bor' is pronounced as a short, clipped 'baw')
north: Sawasdee jaow. Sabai dee Jaow (long, falling tone on 'jaow')
It's a bit of a minefield as you can see.
Anyway...
Chok dee (good luck in Thai)
Sok dee ( good luck in Isaan)
What is a country in Europe NOT in the EU?
Here's a short passage from the C.I.A. World Factbook:
a major international financial center vulnerable to the layering and integration stages of money laundering; despite significant legislation and reporting requirements, secrecy rules persist and nonresidents are permitted to conduct business through offshore entities and various intermediaries; transit country for and consumer of South American cocaine and Southwest Asian heroin
Before I wrote my last POST, I read over the comment history of Mr. Swiss Dong. Granted, I'm certainly not an ISG POSTING All-Star, but I found his question regarding age-of-consent very suspect.
NOTE: While I'm tired of Washington DCs moral police continued attempts at creating some new puritanical, fascist state. It's always been my understanding that 18 is STILL the MAGIC number for the ISG.Well, I am pretty sure that I am not violating the forum rules since I am not mentioning any person under 18. If thats not the case. Then offcourse I will never again ask about the law and its enforcement of any country.
Since you are presenting us the text from a US information agency I don't have to mention all the children, men and women that the USA are directly and indirectly killing and abusing through theire politics and worldwide actions.
Certainly no way to gain my respect on theire moral guidance.
Thank you very much for the second hand information about the taking laos girl on vacation question
For those seeking a truly budget-minded travel destination. Check out the latest POSTS in the Ecuador section of ISG. 7 to 10 Dollar STs are widely available in Quito.Yeah. I read through the forums in that section. But judging from the photos in the Ecuador section I greatly prefer the beatiful girls I found in Cambodia ST for 3 dollars and in Indonesia LT 20 to 40 dollars (all not freelancers).
And since I certainly don't have a general dislike for central and south american girls I have to guess that the 7-20 dollars ST places in equador don't have that many beautys. But judging from the posts alot of them offer an enthusiastic service.
Daddy,
You might want to try Lonely Planet's Thai (345.-Baht), for starters and if you can learn everything in there, you would be off to a great start.
I bought THAI FOR BEGINNERS by Benjawan Poomsan Becker (700.- Baht) comes with 2 CD's and a book that teaches the sounds, consonants,short vowels,long vowels,instruction in writing, etc,etc. Its not simple to say the least.
When next in Thailand consider taking a course in Thai.
And as OTH says chok dee.
LittleBigMan
11-30-06, 04:20
Well, it's has been just over 30 days since my retirement. This has certainly been the longest stay here in Thailand. The last 7 years has been 3 weeks at a time twice a year.
Since I currently have a off day from my house cleaning and car washing I decide to just take a few moments to personally comment on some observations.
I have concluded that one can have the best and most expensive house and not be able to keep the insects away nor can you keep the water flowing into your home daily. Luckily during my youth I did a lot of backpacking and camping so these past experiences have come in handy yet I'm thinking of taking a course to find out what types of snakes and bugs I am dealing with in Thailand since I have encounter so many.
As for ants there seem to be 3 types, the small and invisiable one that is inside your home until you happen to drop food or a crumb then they show up by the hundreds. Then there are the red ants outside that home that attack food and dead insects and finally the big black ants that I have personally seem carrying items across small roads to wherever, both I might add give a good small bite when they crawl on you.
Driving in Thailand is a challenge. Although I have a license to drive a commercial vehicle and have in the past handle large equipment I have yet to understand for a culture that does know what being on time means seem to put their lives at risk each time they are behind the wheel or on a motor bike.
This particular trip I have done a lot of driving and I just don't get what the big hurry seem to be just to get a few feet ahead of someone. As for the people on motorbikes I think the young boys are watching and playing to much video games.
I have a nice little house with A/C in each room, 2 clean showers with water heaters all modern but it means beans if the city decides to ration or turn your water off. It back to scoopie doopie showers! This does little for the nice looking green grass so put as little as possible this would avoid the grass needing cutting and keep the snakes away from making a nice home for themselves.
After a month living a non mongering life style one does get bored from all the house work so plan on finding some recreation outlet for yourself. But all in all things are coming around nicely. Not having to work or worry too much about time and being able to get my health back and at the end of the day taking a nice long shower and sleeping in a A/C room pretty much rounds out the day!
For those of you who stay and live in hotels never have to think about water is a luxury!
Good health to everyone and have a Merry Christmas!
LBM
Daddy07,
I went to LOS in September. About 2 months before going I used Conversational Thai from Pimsleur.
http://www.pimsleurdirect.com/s.nl/it.A/id.1816/.f
I have used Pimsleur for another language, and have been told by a native speaker that I speak it quite well.
I agree with OldThaiHand that having someone to practice it with in the U.S. is key. I was lucky that I have two Thais at work and a Thai neighbor in which to practice with, to ask questions to when I don't understand how to pronounce certain words, and to help when I was completley confused by phrases.
Rayzor
Old Thai Hand,
Thank you for the detailed report on the geographic variations of the language. Korean (my second language) has the same sort of dialectic challenges, however, not to the same degree as Thai. Sadly, in Thailand, my Hangul only comes in handy on the Korean Airline flights to and from Bangkok.
Anyhow, I particular like the example regarding the name of your female student. Hopefully, when I retire next summer in LOS, my fractured Thai won't cause a serious international incident. I'm going to print your comments and keep them inside my THAI dictionary. That way, I can try to figure out what particular dialect my gf uses.
When WE vacationed together at Angkor Wat, she had ZERO problems talking with the locals. However, on our trips to Vietnam and Laos, we were equally FARRANG...lol.
CONCLUSION: Hell if I know what dialect she speaks.
LittleBigMan
Congratulations on your retirement. I can relate to those yearly three-week long pilgrimages. Have you thought about writing a book? Honestly and without a hint of sarcasm, you definitely make the simple scenes from daily life sound rather exciting! I dream of the day I can ponder the movement of Ants!
Please keep the reports coming!
Daddy
Although Thai is a fairly economic language in terms of vocabulary and grammar, the problem with trying to learn Thai outside the country is the alphabet and more significantly, pronunciation. Reading Thai words on the internet or in a book doesn't even begin to give you the nuance necessary for Thais to understand...
Learning the Thai alphabet certainly is a huge help because Thai is phonetic and therefore learning the correct pronunciation of the aphabet helps you make the proper sounds.
I don't know if it is possible, but if there are Thais where you live, find out if the community offers language courses. Alternately, see if you can at least find a Thai language book that includes an audio tape so that you can begin to hear how the language sounds. The expensive language book/course you mention might be worth it just to get the basics. Then you can practice when you come back. But, a Thai-speaking person is going to still be your best bet if you can find one where you live...
It's a bit of a minefield as you can see. OTH,
You’re right that learning the alphabet is the key to learning the language, as roman letters just don’t cut it. The web sites I found do have Thai speakers pronouncing the words, including the alphabet characters, but so many consonants sound exactly the same, and the different tones which must be learned, present a daunting task for the beginner. There are no Thai’s where I live, so I think I’ll follow your advice to find a book/course with audio CD’s. Maybe I can find something second hand on Ebay. I think I’ll test my commitment first by learning everything I can from the free web sites before taking the plunge into an expensive course.
It’s a minefield, yes, but the rewards are considerable making the quest well worth the effort.
(Buzz00)
You might want to try Lonely Planet's Thai (345.-Baht), for starters and if you can learn everything in there, you would be off to a great start.
I bought THAI FOR BEGINNERS by Benjawan Poomsan Becker (700.- Baht) comes with 2 CD's and a book that teaches the sounds, consonants,short vowels,long vowels,instruction in writing, etc,etc. Its not simple to say the least. Buzz,
Yes, I saw that option on the Learning Thai the Easy Way site priced at $34, which seemed reasonable. I know it’s not going to be simple but am willing to give it a go because knowing some of the language is worth it. Where did you buy it for 700b? And did you learn well from it?
Thanks to both of you for your advice.
คำขอบคุณ kam kòp koon (thank you)
Daddy
Daddy07,
I went to LOS in September. About 2 months before going I used Conversational Thai from Pimsleur.
http://www.pimsleurdirect.com/s.nl/it.A/id.1816/.f
RayzorExcellent! There are also 2 other choices at the site: Thai and Basic Thai, and you can listen to the first lesson of each. I've bookmarked the site and will think about buying it after checking around some more.
Thanks,
Daddy
Daddy,
As they say; yin dee ( you are welcome )
I bought all my material at a well stocked store opp. the police station (next to the beach) in Jomtien - learning the alphebet is like learning to write all over again. The book shows you with arrows on the letters how to write - where to start and finish. As far as I can ascertain its great value and I had looked at everything else that was on offer. The Lonely Planet book I carry around with me.
When I finish learning this stuff, I will it over again and then hopefully go back to Thailand and do a 3-4 week course.
It would help to have a nice Thai lady to practice on.
Old Thai Hand
12-01-06, 01:26
Old Thai Hand,
Anyhow, I particular like the example regarding the name of your female student. Hopefully, when I retire next summer in LOS, my fractured Thai won't cause a serious international incident. I'm going to print your comments and keep them inside my THAI dictionary. That way, I can try to figure out what particular dialect my gf uses.
When WE vacationed together at Angkor Wat, she had ZERO problems talking with the locals. However, on our trips to Vietnam and Laos, we were equally FARRANG...lol.
CONCLUSION: Hell if I know what dialect she speaks.
If she can talk to the locals at Angkhor, then she speaks Khmer. I would assume from this that she comes from southern Isaan, either Buriram or Surin. I omitted Khmer from my report. I should have included it. But, the difference with Khmer from Isaan-Lao, and northern and southern Thai dialect is that, Khmer has absolutely no connection to Thai whatsoever.
All along the border of Thailand the thai people speak at least two languages. My ex wife come from Si sa ket, and in her village they use Khmer instead of thai. She also speak fluent Lao, as most of the people live on in east and north east of thailand. This is not dialects, but actually different languages.In the north of Thailand and all along the borderline to Myanmar they can speak burmese.
If she can talk to the locals at Angkhor, then she speaks Khmer. I would assume from this that she comes from southern Isaan, either Buriram or Surin. I omitted Khmer from my report. I should have included it. But, the difference with Khmer from Isaan-Lao, and northern and southern Thai dialect is that, Khmer has absolutely no connection to Thai whatsoever.
All along the border of Thailand the thai people speak at least two languages. My ex wife come from Si sa ket, and in her village they use Khmer instead of thai. She also speak fluent Lao, as most of the people live on in east and north east of thailand. This is not dialects, but actually different languages.In the north of Thailand and all along the borderline to Myanmar they can speak burmese.Do you know why they can speak those languages? Is it because of school or bilingual parents or do they learn it from visitors?
Only if there is one special reason to this. I dont think that learning two or three languages is something that just happens.
The Traveler
12-01-06, 21:31
Ken, OTH,
just a minor correction : The language spoken in the Buriram/Surin area is called "passa Tin", even though most people - including Thais - call it "passa Khmen". It has many similarities to Khmer, but it's not identical.
The Traveler
12-01-06, 21:40
LBM,
as far as I remember your house is located in an area where an own well may be a solution to your water problems. You could also add underground tanks to your house which will allow you to "survive" those days without public water.
Retired Army
12-01-06, 22:31
LBM,
as far as I remember your house is located in an area where an own well may be a solution to your water problems. You could also add underground tanks to your house which will allow you to "survive" those days without public water.
Underground tanks? I don't know anyone with underground tanks. Most of the tanks are on the roof and gravity fed.
Old Thai Hand
12-02-06, 04:06
Ken, OTH,
just a minor correction : The language spoken in the Buriram/Surin area is called "passa Tin", even though most people - including Thais - call it "passa Khmen". It has many similarities to Khmer, but it's not identical.
Thanks. You're right, of course. But, most from the area usually just say they speak Khmer. So, I forgot about it actually being paasaa tin.
I also forgot to mention Khorat dialect, spoken by approximately half a million that is a hybrid between Isaan Lao and Thai.
Old Thai Hand
12-02-06, 04:09
Underground tanks? I don't know anyone with underground tanks. Most of the tanks are on the roof and gravity fed.
When I lived in Hua Hin, I had underground tanks and a pump. The only problem was when the pump broke down which happened a couple of times, it took forever to get someone to fix it.
So, a water tank on the roof or a large one at the side of the house is a better solution.
LittleBigMan
12-02-06, 10:58
Thanks fellas,
After buying my house and within the process of putting things together having experience this situation many times I made sure I had water in case the water pressure is low or completely shut off. Now as far I can tell it been raining a lot this year and the reservior out where I live seem to be filled that was certainly the case when I made a visit to the boat races 18,19 or November. As for water I have 2500 gals of water at my disposal but I rather not being doing the scoopie doopie when there does not seem to be a water shortage.
LBM
The Traveler
12-02-06, 18:26
Underground tanks? I don't know anyone with underground tanks. Most of the tanks are on the roof and gravity fed.
RA,
maybe you don't know because you can't see them :)
Anyway, those tanks on roofs or in the backyard are usually quite small (approx. 1.000 liters) and quite ugly.
Since most - if not all - houses do already have an automatic pump in place an underground tank is a good solution. My new house has an underground tank of approx. 25.000 liters plus a few additional intermediate underground tanks (approx. 1.000.000 liters in total) of the village which will be filled by two wells. The management takes care of those intermediate tanks and may even buy water to fill them up if necessary. This way I never have to think about my water supply, it's simply no issue for me :D
The Traveler
12-02-06, 18:32
When I lived in Hua Hin, I had underground tanks and a pump. The only problem was when the pump broke down which happened a couple of times, it took forever to get someone to fix it.
So, a water tank on the roof or a large one at the side of the house is a better solution.
OTH,
how do you get the water into the water tank on the roof ?
And how you get the water up the shower if the tank is just at the side of the house ?
Of course with the very same pump. The only exceptions are those places were the pressure may be high enough but especially during dry season this isn't very likely anywhere in Pattaya.
BTW, why not buy a more reliable pump. I bought several of different brands and never had a prob.
Retired Army
12-02-06, 19:07
When I lived up country many years ago the tanks were high in the air on a platform. A small gasoline pump was used to fill the water tank directly from the klong. Once the tank was full either a float stopped the water flow or the tank spilled over and papasan stopped the motor. Then gravity did the rest. We had a propane wall mounted water heater which provided luke warm water for showers. The house girl did the dishes in the shower along with the laundry.
Some of the people that I know who live in rural areas buy their water from a truck with a gasoline powered pump that fills their water tanks. Most of these are on the roofs because it's easier to put the tank there than dig a hole. And gravity does the rest. Evenif they are ugly, they are practical.
The Traveler
12-03-06, 20:45
RA,
to each it's own :)
OTH argued with his broken pump and I personally see no difference between needing a pump to fill an elevated tank or needing a pump to suck it out of an underground tank. If the pump is broken neither system will work :D
LittleBigMan
12-04-06, 08:08
Thanks for all the discussion. T.T. got it right but I don't have his luxury of living in a community that makes sure the water is running constantly. I don't have T.T. resources! but I'm getting by with the water tanks that I have I just need to get a pump to be able to pump out the water faster. But all great comments and suggestion from R.A. and T.T.
Thanks,
LBM
Retired Army
12-04-06, 10:55
RA,
to each it's own :)
OTH argued with his broken pump and I personally see no difference between needing a pump to fill an elevated tank or needing a pump to suck it out of an underground tank. If the pump is broken neither system will work :D
:rolleyes:
With all the passion and emotion this topic envokes maybe we should move it to the fight club where we can slug it out.:p
:rolleyes:
With all the passion and emotion this topic envokes maybe we should move it to the fight club where we can slug it out.:pRetired Army,
LOL! Livingstone's has 2 water pumps and 2 water tanks - does that entitle me to join the fight?
Giotto
Retired Army
12-04-06, 12:37
Retired Army,
LOL! Livingstone's has 2 water pumps and 2 water tanks - does that entitle me to join the fight?
Giotto
Only if you are looking for a fight and then you are going to get it twice as hard and twice as much. Two black eyes instead of one.
Only if you are looking for a fight and then you are going to get it twice as hard and twice as much. Two black eyes instead of one.Retired Army,
No, thanks. Then I prefer to go to Nana and suffer there :) .
Giotto
Old Thai Hand
12-04-06, 16:21
:rolleyes:
With all the passion and emotion this topic envokes maybe we should move it to the fight club where we can slug it out.:p
Ya. I didn't know my broken water pump story would evoke such a passionate response...LOL...
Ya. I didn't know my broken water pump story would evoke such a passionate response...Old Thai Hand,
Sorry to hear that your "pump" is broken. No 5 times in 5 hours any more :) ?
Giotto
Old Thai Hand
12-05-06, 04:28
Old Thai Hand,
Sorry to hear that your "pump" is broken. No 5 times in 5 hours any more :) ?
Giotto
LOL. No. That pump's fine.
LittleBigMan
12-05-06, 06:45
Sorry that I brought up the topic of water. I hope that things do not proceed to the fight club. Being the Kings birthday everyone should forget about water pump and get back to pumping the ladies!
Enjoy! LBM
Yesterday, when I talked to my gf on the phone, she told me she spoke FOUR languages.
"Four?"
The first two were easy to guess: English and Thai.
Since I had paid for 7 months of English and computer classes in Bangkok, I'm not about to admit she doesn't speak my mother tongue...lol.
Also, as I wrote in an previous report, she had no problems talking to everyone in Cambodia. Thus, Khmer was added to the list.
Then I remembered, when we were in Laos, she had no difficulties to communicating with ALL the locals. Finally, Isaan-Lao has rounded out the list of languages.
I'd like to thank everyone for the recent dialect/language discussion. For now, I'm going to stick to learning Thai.
Water?
Has anybody actually tested the water coming out of their pipes?
(Compiled by Bangkokpost.com from Agencies)
A Swiss man was arrested on charges of insulting the monarchy by painting over images of His Majesty the King, police said today.
Jufer Oliver Rudolf, 57, was caught Tuesday on surveillance cameras spray painting over portraits of His Majesty with black paint at several locations in Chiang Mai, police Lt. Col Kittiphan Kamwan said. He was detained Wednesday night, and faces up to 15 years in jail if convicted, the police said.
Pol Lt Col Kittiphan said Rudolf claimed he was drunk.
The military has launched a separate investigation into the incident, suggesting Rudolf may have been hired by someone opposed to the Sept 19 coup.
"The suspect must have been hired by someone so I have ordered soldiers to investigate the incident and bring the mastermind of this crime to justice,'' said Saprang Kanlayanamitr, a member of the Council for National Security.
Source: http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/breakingnews.php?id=114830
The Traveler
12-11-06, 22:37
:rolleyes:
With all the passion and emotion this topic envokes maybe we should move it to the fight club where we can slug it out.:p
RA,
what passion and emotion ?
Sorry, but I don't think the "pump story" has any potential for the Fight Club :D
Retired Army
12-12-06, 18:57
RA,
what passion and emotion ?
Sorry, but I don't think the "pump story" has any potential for the Fight Club :D
What, you don't recognize sarcasm?
I thought "pump story" had some sexual connotations, but it's all rather mechanical, isn't it?
<ducking and running....>
INCOMING!!
LittleBigMan
12-20-06, 21:59
LBM, has been using the Dentist in Pattaya on Soi 5, APC for the last two years. From previous work ( not cleaning ) I have had very good results and certainly the price is right. I'm one that take very good care of my choppers but in November I scheduled a cleaning but wasn't happy with the technique. As many dentist in the states has turn to using a power instrutment to do the cleaning so has the dentist at APC. Now I'm a person that has a high pain threshold but during the cleaning in several area's particularly in the front lower it was very, very, very, very sensitive I felt like Dustin Hoffman in the movie Marathon Man and I jump a few times.
To get to my question! Does anyone know or can suggest a place in Pattaya, if not Bangkok is O.K. that can direct me to a Dentist that is still using the old method of cleaning by using the old pick? and finish the job with a good old fashion polishing of the teeth?
Thanks,
LBM
Traveler1234
12-21-06, 01:50
My crown popped out on flight from HK to Bkk. When I landed, went over to Bumingrad Hp, dental section (3rd floor I think) as a walk in patient and got great service. Doc spent over 30 minutes cleaning crown, my tooth and cemented back in....less than $30.
LittleBigMan
12-21-06, 04:05
traveler1234,
good to hear from you. the work that i have been receiving from apc in the past has been great. had a bad tooth ache a while back thought that i needed a root canal but after he took a x-ray and examine me told me that the tooth was cracked and we decided to remove it 500 baht. i'm happy with his decision and his work but the every six month cleaning i like to have i have not happy. these days the new method is to use a high speed disc to remove the plague and the speed is the problem it goes so fast that if it pressed too hard it is extremely sensitive to the patient. i prefer the old fashion method where they take the time to scrape each tooth. it takes longer but less sensitive.
still looking for a good dentist that cleans the old fashion way and polishes the tooths to get rid of all that coffee i like to drink!
i'll give b-hospital a visit next time to check their method. thanks for the tip!
lbm
Old Thai Hand
12-21-06, 10:54
traveler1234,
good to hear from you. the work that i have been receiving from apc in the past has been great. had a bad tooth ache a while back thought that i needed a root canal but after he took a x-ray and examine me told me that the tooth was cracked and we decided to remove it 500 baht. i'm happy with his decision and his work but the every six month cleaning i like to have i have not happy. these days the new method is to use a high speed disc to remove the plague and the speed is the problem it goes so fast that if it pressed too hard it is extremely sensitive to the patient. i prefer the old fashion method where they take the time to scrape each tooth. it takes longer but less sensitive.
still looking for a good dentist that cleans the old fashion way and polishes the tooths to get rid of all that coffee i like to drink!
i'll give b-hospital a visit next time to check their method. thanks for the tip!
lbm
the dental hospital owned and run by the king's personal dentist - sukhumvit soi 49 across from villa supermaket. imho, if a little more expensive, the best in bkk, if not thailand. yes, they do manual cleaning, or at least did 4 months ago when i had my last clean. i've had a couple of root canals and crowns done there and am impressed by the follow-up service in which they check to make sure that everything is ok at no additional charge.
to get there - go up soi 49 to the end, where the road splits and go left and then right. the hospital is diagonally across the road, just past villa.
To get to my question! Does anyone know or can suggest a place in Pattaya, if not Bangkok is O.K. that can direct me to a Dentist that is still using the old method of cleaning by using the old pick? and finish the job with a good old fashion polishing of the teeth? Thanks, LBM Hi LBM,
I've recently made an appointment with a dentist at the Bangkok Pattaya Hospital recommended by a member of the Pattaya Expat's club. I'll be there in February and will get a few crowns, restorations, cleaning, and possibly the laser teeth whitening procedure at prices quoted about 1/4 the cost of the same services in the US. I'm not sure, but I believe the dentists at the new hospital will offer a higher level of service than a sole proprietor dentist. There are several dentists on the staff practicing in every speciality. Here is a link listing them all. http://www.dentalpattaya.com/dentalcenter/ You could call the center and ask them to recommend a dentist who will clean your teeth the way you like.
Daddy
LittleBigMan
12-22-06, 22:10
OTH, Daddy07,
Thanks for the tip. I will be returning to LOS in mid February and certainly check out both suggestion in Bkk and Pattaya.
Thanks, LBM
The Dental Hospital owned and run by the King's personal dentist - Sukhumvit soi 49 across from Villa Supermaket. IMHO, if a little more expensive, the best in BKK, if not Thailand. Yes, they do manual cleaning, or at least did 4 months ago when I had my last clean. I've had a couple of root canals and crowns done there and am impressed by the follow-up service in which they check to make sure that everything is ok at no additional charge.
To get there - go up soi 49 to the end, where the road splits and go left and then right. The hospital is diagonally across the road, just past Villa.
I had a root canal treatment done there. Very very professional, but very expensive too. For less than double the price you can get this done in Germany, in Hungary for half the price. And the Hungarians are famous for good dentists. Some Austrians go there for treatments they have to pay themselves, whereas in Austria the health insurance would have paid it.
There is a very good German dentist in Pattaya, who even has his own lab to make his own crowns, at half the price of the Bangkok Dental Hospital.
Details available via PM if needed.
RCA Knight
12-23-06, 22:21
I used to do my dental in Thailand years ago, but recent years dental in Thailand is getting much more expensive than many countries with very good private health and dental care.
Now I do all my dental in Brazil, in Sao Paulo mostly, which has a super super health care and dental care in the private sector and cheaper than Thailnad as well. Agree that Hungary is popular with dental work and has super dental care and cheaper than Thailand too. I also heard India has great and cheap dentistry in private sector. I have known quite some people travel there and do the dental work at the same times.
Traffic777
12-30-06, 07:44
What's the best way to go about renting a 2bdrm place in Pattaya for a month?
Agencies, driving around or a word of mouth?
Thank you
LittleBigMan
12-31-06, 02:45
traffic777,
if you are already in pattaya, i sugguest you check the board inside carrafore shopping center the hallway leading into the bathrooms. you can also check the foodland board. you should definite get a pattaya phone book (yellow pages) i have found this book to be very informational.
there are also a few real estate offices, there is one near the dolphin circle, north pattaya, across the street from the super market. there is a office called easy visa and it is next door. there is also another office at the corner where [CodeWord901] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord901)'s is located. these are just two but you should be able to find them throughout pattaya.
good luck,
I know about the earthquake that happen near Taiwan on Tuesday. My GF seem to have no problem calling me in the US but I have problem calling into Thailand since then. Have any of you seen the same problem ?. Any info on how to get around this problem is appreciated as call going out of Thailand seem to be much more expensive than call going out from US (and I pay either ways).
Traffic777
12-31-06, 03:19
Thank you very much, LittleBigMan.
I'll definitely check it out when I get there. I found realtors' sites like http://www.fairproperties.com and the prices seem to be a bit more than what I had expected. 20 000 - 50 000THB, is it a normal market price for a furnished decent 2bdrm condo, or a tourist trap?
Is it a bad idea to recruit a bar girl to help with condo hunting?
M P Lurker
12-31-06, 09:46
I know about the earthquake that happen near Taiwan on Tuesday. My GF seem to have no problem calling me in the US but I have problem calling into Thailand since then. Have any of you seen the same problem ?. Any info on how to get around this problem is appreciated as call going out of Thailand seem to be much more expensive than call going out from US (and I pay either ways).
No problems calling from Australia using my cell phone but using cheap OS phone calling card had some problems.
LittleBigMan
01-01-07, 00:44
Traffic777,
Like everywhere in the world, it is all about " Location " the better and more assessible area the greater the cost! Personally I have never like renting a place for a month with someone elses furniture. As for a 2 bedroom, are you sharing the place? if not why a 2 bedroom, you might want to think about a Service apartment, or just a nice reasonable price, convienent located hotel. Less work and less worries!
Can't answer your bargirl question. Like everything else research and take you time.
LBM
Traffic777
01-01-07, 08:03
LittleBigMan,
Yes, I'll be sharing a place with friends. But if the condo prices are so high, it may well be worth living in the hotel.
See link:
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601101&sid=aVv3D1a8XamM&refer=japan
"Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent." - Isaac Asimov
The Traveler
01-03-07, 22:11
Thank you very much, LittleBigMan.
I'll definitely check it out when I get there. I found realtors' sites like http://www.fairproperties.com and the prices seem to be a bit more than what I had expected. 20 000 - 50 000THB, is it a normal market price for a furnished decent 2bdrm condo, or a tourist trap?
Is it a bad idea to recruit a bar girl to help with condo hunting?
Traffic,
a.) FairProperties is one of the more expensive Real Estate Agents but updates its website more regularly than many others
b.) Depends on the girl
Phantomtiger2
01-03-07, 23:38
See link:
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601101&sid=aVv3D1a8XamM&refer=japan
The article is correct as an impact will be felt in the overall tourism to Bkk (short term), the long term implications depends on who actually set the bombs off. If its the Islamic rebels down south (as they had threaten to do just that for several years now) then long term is very uncertain as it could only get worse. If its the results of supporters for the ousted Prime Minister (as some suspected) then its only temporary.
PT
I have read with curiosity all the posts here about cell phones because I want to have one for my upcoming month long trip to LOS, but I’ve never owned one, and know next to nothing about them. I understand they are used to make mobile telephone calls to girlfriends, who all have them – that’s about all I know – and that’s the only reason I want one, for only that month, and/or whenever I am in Thailand, which will probably be about twice or more per year from now on. I want something basic, small, cheap, and reliable. All the talk here about "Simm cards", "topping them off", "locked", "unlocked" and the like, has this land line junkie totally confused. I also understand that the normal "American" cell phone will apparently not work in Thailand for some unfathomable reason. Searching for info on the net results only in mountains of advertisements and confusing data.
Can some of you communication pros help me out on this one? What are my alternatives? Should I buy one, or rent one? Should I look for one here in the you. S. To take with me, or look for one in Thailand? Where are the best deals to be found? How much do they cost to rent or buy? What features do I need for mongering purposes?
Thanks,
Daddy
Retired Army
01-05-07, 02:53
I have read with curiosity all the posts here about cell phones because I want to have one for my upcoming month long trip to LOS, but I’ve never owned one, and know next to nothing about them. I understand they are used to make mobile telephone calls to girlfriends, who all have them – that’s about all I know – and that’s the only reason I want one, for only that month, and/or whenever I am in Thailand, which will probably be about twice or more per year from now on. I want something basic, small, cheap, and reliable. All the talk here about "Simm cards", "topping them off", "locked", "unlocked" and the like, has this land line junkie totally confused. I also understand that the normal "American" cell phone will apparently not work in Thailand for some unfathomable reason. Searching for info on the net results only in mountains of advertisements and confusing data.
Can some of you communication pros help me out on this one? What are my alternatives? Should I buy one, or rent one? Should I look for one here in the you. S. To take with me, or look for one in Thailand? Where are the best deals to be found? How much do they cost to rent or buy? What features do I need for mongering purposes?
Thanks,
Daddy
Go to the 4th floor at Ma Bu Krong (MBK) Shopping Center and buy a basic cell phone and rechargable simm card. MBK is connected to the National Stadium BTS Station so it's easy to get to. I was there yesterday and saw some older basic models for less than 1,000 THB (approx $28.00). A rechargable simm card is 100 THB.
I have read with curiosity all the posts here about cell phones because I want to have one for my upcoming month long trip to LOS, but I’ve never owned one, and know next to nothing about them. I understand they are used to make mobile telephone calls to girlfriends, who all have them – that’s about all I know – and that’s the only reason I want one, for only that month, and/or whenever I am in Thailand, which will probably be about twice or more per year from now on. I want something basic, small, cheap, and reliable. All the talk here about "Simm cards", "topping them off", "locked", "unlocked" and the like, has this land line junkie totally confused. I also understand that the normal "American" cell phone will apparently not work in Thailand for some unfathomable reason. Searching for info on the net results only in mountains of advertisements and confusing data.
Can some of you communication pros help me out on this one? What are my alternatives? Should I buy one, or rent one? Should I look for one here in the you. S. To take with me, or look for one in Thailand? Where are the best deals to be found? How much do they cost to rent or buy? What features do I need for mongering purposes?
Thanks,
Daddy
1. There are two major cell phone technology (among others) being used around the world. GSM and CDMA.
2. In the US GSM is used by Cingular and T-Mobile while others use CDMA.
3. A GSM phone (Tri/Quad-band) will work in most countries including Thailand. (Bands are frequencies. Frequency used in US is different from the one used in Thailand)
4. In the US the carriers will put a software lock so that it can't be used with a competing company. e.g. Cingular phones cannot be used with TMobile.
5. In Thailand and elsewhere the phones are not locked. However, the locked phones can be unlocked at cell phone sellers/ repair shops. So if you have a locked US phone, take it with you and have it unlocked in Thailand. You can still use it back in US.
6. If you use a US based carrier phone outside the country, the roaming fees are expensive. You will be paying around $2/min for all calls. However, it allows your US contacts to call you anywhere in the world using your local number.
7. Since you will be in Thailand for a short period it makes sense to buy a SIMM card locally so you have a Thai number and it is much cheaper. (SIMM card is a small electronic card, physically in the phone, which is used to identify the carrier as well as to store phone numbers.
So if you already have a GSM phone, take it with you and have it unlocked and buy the card. Otherwise, follow Retired Army's advice.
4. In the US the carriers will put a software lock so that it can't be used with a competing company. e.g. Cingular phones cannot be used with TMobile.Living in the US, I bought a GSM phone from T-Mobile in 2004 so I'd be able to use it while traveling. My standard contract with T-Mobile said they would unlock the phone after x months of service (It was either 6 or 12 months, I forget which). They provided me the unlock code but it took SEVEN tries. Forget the local T-Mobile stores, they're either clueless or will offer to send you to friend who can unlock it for $40. I received unlocking instructions from T-Mobile customer service that didn't work and kept not working until they finally sent me the right instuctions.
RA & Duni,
Thanks for the excellent cell phone advice. Now it's all clear to me. I will follow RA's advice and look for a basic cell phone when I arrive in LOS. I assume that I can keep the SIMM card activated so that I can use the phone each time I visit Thailand and will have the same number, etc. I also assume that I can buy extra minutes as needed at 7-11 stores.
I plan on skipping BKK this time by going straight to Pattaya for dental treatments at the Bangkok/Pattaya Hospital Dental Center (together with other recreational pursuits). So, if anyone knows the best places in Pattaya to buy cell phones, I would appreciate hearing from you. I've seen stores in the Royal Garden Plaza, and Big C, but those are probably two of the more expensive places to look I imagine.
Thanks again,
Daddy
Retired Army
01-07-07, 03:38
RA & Duni,
Thanks for the excellent cell phone advice. Now it's all clear to me. I will follow RA's advice and look for a basic cell phone when I arrive in LOS. I assume that I can keep the SIMM card activated so that I can use the phone each time I visit Thailand and will have the same number, etc. I also assume that I can buy extra minutes as needed at 7-11 stores.
I plan on skipping BKK this time by going straight to Pattaya for dental treatments at the Bangkok/Pattaya Hospital Dental Center (together with other recreational pursuits). So, if anyone knows the best places in Pattaya to buy cell phones, I would appreciate hearing from you. I've seen stores in the Royal Garden Plaza, and Big C, but those are probably two of the more expensive places to look I imagine.
Thanks again,
Daddy
Can't help you in Pattaya because I avoid the place like the plague. The cheap cell phones I was referring to were older used models at MBK. If you look around I am sure there is something similar in Pattaya. From what I understand from the 1-2-Call service representative your phone number won't expire, just the minutes. So if you don't use your phone for a while, you can just buy a new refill card and you are back in business.
Retired Army
01-07-07, 03:40
Living in the US, I bought a GSM phone from T-Mobile in 2004 so I'd be able to use it while traveling. My standard contract with T-Mobile said they would unlock the phone after x months of service (It was either 6 or 12 months, I forget which). They provided me the unlock code but it took SEVEN tries. Forget the local T-Mobile stores, they're either clueless or will offer to send you to friend who can unlock it for $40. I received unlocking instructions from T-Mobile customer service that didn't work and kept not working until they finally sent me the right instuctions.
I think I paid 500 THB to have mine unlocked at MBK. Took all of two minutes.
Can someone explain the reasons and advantages of unlocking a T mobile phone please?
Terry Terrier
01-07-07, 11:30
So, if anyone knows the best places in Pattaya to buy cell phones, I would appreciate hearing from you.
Daddy07,
The best place by far in Pattaya to buy techie stuff of just about any description is Tucom on South Pattaya Road. Travelling from Second Road, it's a few hundred yards before the junction with Soi Buakhaw. It's seven floors of techie shops, with a small food court. Incidentally, cheap second hand phones are available on the market just around the corner on Soi Buakhaw.
RA & TT,
Thanks a lot for the cell phone info. I'll go straight to the techie markets first thing, knowing exactly what to look for and about what to pay, thanks to you guys.
Regards,
Daddy
Can someone explain the reasons and advantages of unlocking a T mobile phone please?
So that you can use local SIM cards in your foreign locale. Applies to all GSM phones sold in USA not just Tmobile. Otherwise you pay $2 plus/minute for all calls.
But then again, your company picks up the tabs, so it would not apply to you, would it? :)
LittleBigMan
01-07-07, 20:21
1Ball,
If you don't unlock the phone you will not be able use it in another country. By unlocking it you can then change the setting thereafter you can insert a local sim card.
LBM
1Ball,
If you don't unlock the phone you will not be able use it in another country. By unlocking it you can then change the setting thereafter you can insert a local sim card.
LBMIf you bring your local cell phone to Thailand, have it unlocked, and install a SIMM card for use there, can you bring it back home after your trip and use it right away without any changes? If not, what changes must be made? Can you use it in both countries after it is unlocked by simply switching SIMM cards? Can you switch those cards without taking the phone to a repair shop?
Thanks,
Daddy
The SOFTWARE LOCK sets the phone to ONE NETWORK. The phone itself sets it to the FREQUENCY. IF you unlock the phone, ANY SIM will work (FREQUENCY DEPENDANT, of course) and the phone will again work on the HOME network as well.
There are 2 type of phones GSM and GDMA
GMDA is ONLY in the US/CANADA (as far as I know) and is NOT GSM compatible. IT WILL NOT WORK OUTSIDE THE US/CANADA (like it or not - to make it simpler to understand - it's like AM and FM in radio - they don't talk to each other)
GSM in turn has 2 frequency bands - 850/1900 and 900/1800.
850/1900 is generally a US/CANADA/MEXICO band. The 1900 MAY be usable elsewhere, but NOT NECESSARILY SO (the higher frquency also means shorter range transmissions)
900/1800 is the "standard band" for the REST OF THE WORLD and then there are the TRI (850/900/1800) and QUAD (850/900/1800/1900) phones. Note that NONE of these will work with GDMA either, but some carriers do "multi band" access in the US/CANADA so you might get coverage
MOST of the Nokia 850/1900 phones sold in the US have a circuit board that can be CHANGED (in Thailand for a reasonable fee - the cost of the board plus reprogramming) BUT NOT ALL (and remember, NOT ALL PHONES CAN BE UNLOCKED - some manufacturers have done "nice" things to the software to not ALLOW ACCESS and not even the CARRIER knows how to unlock the phone and the manufacturer AIN'T TALKING - YET)
Any questions? (my Nokia 1100b cost 600B to change from a US motherboard to a 1100 Thai motherboard - I still HAVE the US board, but since I don't plan on using the phone in the US it doesn't matter - and becomes just another dust collector) SIMS are cheap - 300B with 50B credit
Any questions? Uh, yeah, one more question. If I understand all this correctly, as a general rule, anyone from North America visiting LOS is simply better off leaving his local cell phone home and buying another one in Thailand for use while there, because the two phone systems are generally not compatable with each other, is that right?
Thanks,
Daddy
Fun Times69
01-08-07, 06:22
Uh, yeah, one more question. If I understand all this correctly, as a general rule, anyone from North America visiting LOS is simply better off leaving his local cell phone home and buying another one in Thailand for use while there, because the two phone systems are generally not compatable with each other, is that right?
Thanks,
Daddy
Yes, get a cheap phone in Thailand and you'll end up being able to use it almost everywhere in the world. You can get second hand phones if you want, say nokia 3310's which are pretty reliable or pop for a simple new one of your own choice.
Yes, get a cheap phone in Thailand and you'll end up being able to use it almost everywhere in the world. You can get second hand phones if you want, say nokia 3310's which are pretty reliable or pop for a simple new one of your own choice.
An alternative is to buy an unlocked GSM quad-band phone in the US; you can find plenty of these on Ebay. Quad-band phones are usable anywhere in the world that has GSM service. That includes North America. Of course, buy the local country SIM where you go so the girls can call or text you for cheap.
The cheap phone one can buy in Thailand will likely be dual-band at 900 and 1800 only so it will work in Europe or Asia, but it will not work in North America which takes 850 or 1900. A quad-band will cover all of those frequencies then one would have a single phone that could go anywhere at the drop of a SIM card.
LittleBigMan
01-09-07, 00:30
My own personal story! Since I recently retired and not being a big fan of talking on a cell phone, playing games, downloading music, etc... Just using it for emergencies and for convienance. I decided to terminated my monthly plan and decided to go with a inexpensive Tri-Band phone ( Minimum bands necessary to use overseas ) "pay as you go". Purchased the phone at a Wal-mart on sale for $69.00 USD, T-Mobile Samsung T-319, activated it with a 1000 minute card ( good for 1 year ) and had it unlock for another $20.00. When I got to LOS, I purchased a sim card for 220 baht, adjusted the frequency, took out my sim card from the U.S. and inserted the new sim card and away I went! Prior to landing in the U.S. I pull out my phone, reset the frequency and inserted my U.S. sim card in and while in customs called my buddy to pick me up! Now if your'e into talking and talking on the phone you might need more but it's to each his own!
LBM
LittleBigMan
01-09-07, 00:34
Even at my age! Trying to keep my health up and decided to try to get my game back. Anyone in the Pattaya area that know or like to play a pickup game of basketball?
LBM
Traveler1234
01-09-07, 01:42
There are 2 type of phones GSM and GDMA
GMDA is ONLY in the US/CANADA (as far as I know) and is NOT GSM compatible. IT WILL NOT WORK OUTSIDE THE US/CANADA (like it or not - to make it simpler to understand - it's like AM and FM in radio - they don't talk to each other)
GSM in turn has 2 frequency bands - 850/1900 and 900/1800.
850/1900 is generally a US/CANADA/MEXICO band. The 1900 MAY be usable elsewhere, but NOT NECESSARILY SO (the higher frquency also means shorter range transmissions)
900/1800 is the "standard band" for the REST OF THE WORLD and then there are the TRI (850/900/1800) and QUAD (850/900/1800/1900) phones. Note that NONE of these will work with GDMA either, but some carriers do "multi band" access in the US/CANADA so you might get coverage
Good summary, a couple of comments:
1. It's CDMA and not GDMA. Korea and Japan are CDMA markets but unfortunately different freq than US (so you're verizon phone won't work).
2. Many networks are going 3G, some already 2.5G in Asia - not important if you're only interested in voice and not tekkie stuff.
3. Besides quad bands, there are now 3G phones which use UMTS - in plain english that means one phone will work on both gsm networks and specific CDMA networks (eg Korea/Japan - which are not GSM).
Keep in mind if you invest in a dual band gsm phone, it will work in all of Asia (except K/J) and Europe. Of course if you get quad band, it'll also work back in states....my suggestion is to get the cheaper dual band.
Also, if you need info on prepaid and regular plans, go to prepaidgsm.net for details.
Referring to earlier discussions about the ownership of land via one or two nested Companies (Co. Ltd.) and connected discussions about voting rights:
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2007/01/09/headlines/headlines_30023662.php
I start to admire the current "insistense" of this government to scare foreign investors away.
Giotto
RCA Knight
01-09-07, 21:11
Back in Nov Asian Human Rights Commission has already issued very harsh words on this king's junta, including releasing of an excellent statement called "3 months of hypocrisy".
The organization points out the fact monarch/military hiarchy, is back and taking full control of the national resources and getting back all their dues and systemetically trying to rid all their political opponents and all foreign influences, in order to carry on their corrupted feudalism.
Because of this Thai feudal system, the foreigners were forced to use the nominee system to do business here. Even other Asian backwaters are opening up so rapidly, Vietnam and China from years ago allow 100 percent foregn ownership. And the paperworks is so swift, takes less than a week. On the other hand, only Thailand is purposely going backwards, at the whim of these conspirators.
Now the foreign enterprises without the nominee systems, force them to give their shares to Thais, realistically who will still put all the money in a foregn land without any control of the fate of the company. Even Thaksin or any other previous era, no Thai government was dumb enough to do this. Because they know this law is backward and unreasonable, so the nominee system is always allowed.
I have friends in auto parts manufacture and design in Thailand, and they have been using Thai nominee system like all other foreign firms for 15 years, now after this law by these junta, they said they are ready to relocate, and guess where? China, which they said offer them tax free for 5 years, and full control of ownership, discount on land lease, ect. Vietnam and China will be happy to hear the new Thai laws.
Guess after all the closure of so many foreign companies in Thailand, lots more meats will flow into the market. Maybe cheaper Thai pussy in the near future. Very good job done by these junta, at least they did something good for us mongers.
LittleBigMan
01-10-07, 05:12
Let's cut to the chase!
Does this mean the baht will be going back up to 40?
LBM
Billy Ibrox
01-10-07, 05:15
http://www.cbc.ca/cp/Oddities/070108/K010804AU.html
They're also blocking sites like this. Has the Buddhist backlash begun?
Member #3200
01-10-07, 07:28
LBM i hope so 2,but the major stumbling block for this 2 happen is the war in Iraq-the billions wasted on a useless war where people their & in that region dont give a fuck about human life-IMHO-is the main reason why it's hovering around 35-36 & the CDN $ is less than 30
a nice exit out of Iraq,money wasted there will go towards getting the economy going again + the new thai rules about foreign investors will hopefully=lower hobby costs & a weakened bhat
my 1 bhat worth on this issue
RCA Knight
01-10-07, 08:59
Was reading the Asian Business news, this junta's new innovation of foreiwgn business act is making a big scare in business investment in Thailand.
Now today the junta said the law will only affect "service" industries. And not much affect the foreign industrail sector, does this mean they will select the foreign service sector and start beating them first, then continue on with other sectors at their own whim??
I can tell you all my friends and business affiliates who have invested in business in Thailand regardless of the sector are all using the Thai nominee systems, and all of them ar shiting in the pants, not knowing the fate of their huge investment.
The junta said it "only" affects service industries "now", besides the mega scale telecommunication industries that most of us have nothing to do, there are still thousands upon thousands of foreign owned hotels, travel and tours, real estates, consulting firms, investment firms, restaurants ect ect in this service sector using Thai nominee systems, and these foreign owners are really pissing in their pants.
So whats the response, I believe there will be a huge exodus of funds from Thailand before whatever the feudal law materialize. Even my good friends in industrial sector in Thailand are all planning to pull out due to the uncertainty of the junta rule.
The Thai baht will fall as a natural results as economy collapse, and demand for Thai baht collapse, so the Asian Economic Journal predicts Thai baht to fall to 38-39 to 1 USD in 2007, perhaps even more if the junta holds on to power and make more and more of their great economic "reform". hehe.
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LittleBigMan
01-30-07, 02:23
What is happening to the Thai Baht? Last few days falling to 33.20, biggest drop I have seen for sometime in such a short period. Last Thursday it was 35.20, Friday 34.20, today 33.20. What is going on?
LBM
What is happening to the Thai Baht? Last few days falling to 33.20, biggest drop I have seen for sometime in such a short period. Last Thursday it was 35.20, Friday 34.20, today 33.20. What is going on?
LBM
It isn't falling, it is shooting up. It is the US dollar which is falling, alas.
Old Thai Hand
01-30-07, 03:21
It isn't falling, it is shooting up. It is the US dollar which is falling, alas.
Well, one man's loss is another's gain...All I can say is let's hope it "falls" (LOL) back to early 1997 levels (25/$).
NicFrenchy
01-30-07, 04:47
Well, one man's loss is another's gain...All I can say is let's hope it "falls" (LOL) back to early 1997 levels (25/$).Hahaha, I hope exactly the same thing.
LittleBigMan
01-30-07, 23:19
" one man's lost is another gain " How can the drop in the strength of the U.S. Dollar and the fall of the Thai Baht back to 25 ( 1997 ) levels be an gain to anyone who lives or visit Thailand? Please explain this to me like I'm a child so I can understand this statement. If your answer is your'e rich and have millions that will easily answer my question! In all my years spent reading this board I have never heard anyone respond that having less would be a gain!
LBM
The Traveler
01-30-07, 23:22
It isn't falling, it is shooting up. It is the US dollar which is falling, alas.
Opebo,
nope, the THB is going up.
Have a look at the cross rates and you will see that the USD gained some ground against the EUR, which wouldn't be the case if your statement would be correct.
Did we finally found something (your statement) which is OBJECTIVELY WRONG !?
Phantomtiger2
01-30-07, 23:39
Well, one man's loss is another's gain...All I can say is let's hope it "falls" (LOL) back to early 1997 levels (25/$).
Although thats true since I was there when it was about 25b to the dollar, lets not forget that I was able to get "more" for my dollar back then.
PT
NicFrenchy
01-31-07, 02:48
" one man's lost is another gain " How can the drop in the strength of the U.S. Dollar and the fall of the Thai Baht back to 25 ( 1997 ) levels be an gain to anyone who lives or visit Thailand? Please explain this to me like I'm a child so I can understand this statement. I will explain from my point of view :
1. I live in Thailand
2. I work in Thailand
3. I have a Local Contract
4. I get paid in THB
So, if let's say I make a salary of 300,000 THB per month:
exchange rate USD1/38THB = USD 7,800
exchange rate USD1/25THB = USD 12,000
Makes sense?
How can the drop in the strength of the U.S. Dollar and the fall of the Thai Baht back to 25 ( 1997 ) levels be an gain to anyone who lives or visit Thailand? Please explain this to me like I'm a child so I can understand this statement.
Apparently, LittleBig, Old Thai Hand makes all his money in the jungle and anticipates spending some of it in the Bad Place. I am with you - even if I were recieving the Baht-salary, I can only imagine money going in one direction.
Opebo,
nope, the THB is going up.
Have a look at the cross rates and you will see that the USD gained some ground against the EUR, which wouldn't be the case if your statement would be correct.
Did we finally found something (your statement) which is OBJECTIVELY WRONG !?
No. Firstly I was speaking of the Dollar's movement vis-a-vis the Baht, and secondly if you look at a longer time frame, the Dollar has been going down a lot. It is, I think, very difficult to find something that is 'objectively wrong', The Traveler, especially with the difficulties of communication.
Old Thai Hand
01-31-07, 04:10
" one man's lost is another gain " How can the drop in the strength of the U.S. Dollar and the fall of the Thai Baht back to 25 ( 1997 ) levels be an gain to anyone who lives or visit Thailand? Please explain this to me like I'm a child so I can understand this statement. If your answer is your'e rich and have millions that will easily answer my question! In all my years spent reading this board I have never heard anyone respond that having less would be a gain!LBM
I was kidding when I said that 25/$ was a fall. It is in fact a rise in the strength of the baht.
25/$ vs 34/$ means the baht buys you more dollars. Hence, if you live here and invest in the US, for example, your baht goes a lot further.
The Traveler
01-31-07, 22:07
No. Firstly I was speaking of the Dollar's movement vis-a-vis the Baht, and secondly if you look at a longer time frame, the Dollar has been going down a lot. It is, I think, very difficult to find something that is 'objectively wrong', The Traveler, especially with the difficulties of communication.
Opebo,
I know that you were talking of the USD movement against the THB, and so was I.
You obviously don't know much about currency markets or cross-rates and as usual try to deceive to hide a mistake (OBJECTIVELY WRONG). We were talking about the current currency moves, not about long-term. Why didn't you say what you mean ? Or didn't you mean what you said ?
Anyway, neither the subject nor you are important enough for wasting another second.
LittleBigMan
01-31-07, 23:06
Fellas,
It all makes senses as long as you get paid in baht and spend in baht, the valuation of the baht vs. the dollar will not affect you. T.T. your'e killing me!
How is the housing price and the water situation in your area?
LBM
The Traveler
02-01-07, 08:10
How is the housing price and the water situation in your area?
LBM,
prices are still up and rising. Can't say much about the water situation right now as my house is still under construction. Will be ready by next year, keep you informed.
Retired Army
02-02-07, 12:54
I was kidding when I said that 25/$ was a fall. It is in fact a rise in the strength of the baht.
25/$ vs 34/$ means the baht buys you more dollars. Hence, if you live here and invest in the US, for example, your baht goes a lot further.
Yeah, but if you get paid in USD and live in Thailand it sucks...
Retired Army
02-02-07, 12:56
I will explain from my point of view :
1. I live in Thailand
2. I work in Thailand
3. I have a Local Contract
4. I get paid in THB
So, if let's say I make a salary of 300,000 THB per month:
exchange rate USD1/38THB = USD 7,800
exchange rate USD1/25THB = USD 12,000
Makes sense?
If you live in Thailand, get paid in Baht, and only buy local stuff then it makes no difference at all what the exchange rate to the $ is.
LBM, prices are still up and rising. Can't say much about the water situation right now as my house is still under construction. Will be ready by next year, keep you informed.
The Traveller,
Why so much time for construction? What kind of mansion are you building over there?
My house in Samui was started in November and is nearly complete now. They should be doing the electricity work next week, then it will be painting and furnishing. All in all, building time will have been under 4 months. It is a 3-bedroom house with a swimming pool, not huge but enough for 4-6 people vacationing or a couple residing.
The Traveler
02-02-07, 22:42
Seydlitz,
it's nothing special, just a little Thai Bali style villa with pool, but build by european standards and with european quality materials.
All rooms will have raised ceilings, aircon, downlights and so on and the master bath alone has over 20sqm :)
I just finished the planning stage, you know, I care a lot about tiny details and want a smart house. I rather spend some thought in advance than running into probs later on. Construction will start next week and will need about one year.
I assume your house is build by Thai standards on a file of piles, mine will be build on a strip foundation. It's also elevated over the street level and so on. And how much time did you spend for compacting the ground ? All this needs some time and I'm not in a hurry.
When finished, we can visit each other :D
NicFrenchy
02-03-07, 03:11
[b]If[/] you live in Thailand, get paid in Baht, and only buy local stuff then it makes no difference at all what the exchange rate to the $ is.Yes, but I have investments abroad, so it does make a difference.
Retired Army
02-03-07, 08:36
Yes, but I have investments abroad, so it does make a difference.
Only if you convert the Baht into $ and send it out of the country. The problem with that is the unfavorable buying/conversion rate of about 3% less than the official exchange rate.
Only if you convert the Baht into $ and send it out of the country. The problem with that is the unfavorable buying/conversion rate of about 3% less than the official exchange rate.Go to Superrich and carry cash out. Then your spread between buying and selling Baht to USD is only 10 Stang which equals less than 0.3%.
I stayed in pattaya for 2 months a couple of years ago, so I know how much money it costs to stay there. Can a person live in other parts of southeast Asia for about the same amount. I am wanting to travel the area, but not spend a lot of money. I am wanting to go to Indonesia and China specifically, but other places also. I will be living cheaply if that influences the answer. I am more interested in general living expenses such as hotel and food. I realize I am asking a very general question and just want a general answer.
Thanks to anyone who replies.
Horatio
Phantomtiger2
02-13-07, 03:32
I stayed in pattaya for 2 months a couple of years ago, so I know how much money it costs to stay there. Can a person live in other parts of southeast Asia for about the same amount. I am wanting to travel the area, but not spend a lot of money. I am wanting to go to Indonesia and China specifically, but other places also. I will be living cheaply if that influences the answer. I am more interested in general living expenses such as hotel and food. I realize I am asking a very general question and just want a general answer.
Thanks to anyone who replies
Horatio
Horatio,
Cambodia is about as cheap as it gets, much cheaper than LOS when everything is taken into account, but living standards is also much less.
Many parts of Malaysia is about the same (give or take) as LOS.
Burma is also cheaper but not exactly the type of place I would stay long time (ok for short visits only--IMO)
Cant comment on Indonesia as I plan to be there someday but not yet.
China (in general) is more expensive than LOS, but I'm only familiar with the larger cities and not sure about cost away in the rural/farm/mountain/desert areas of China. Suggest you post in China thread as many are experts there can better answer this .
Cheers
PT
Any of the surrounding countries are cheaper than Bangkok, of course, and it is possible they may be cheaper than Pattaya, though I doubt it. Pattaya can be very cheap if you rent a 5,000/month apartment, eat Thai food in the sois, and pick up only freelancers (not many left I know).
I'd say one could live on about 40,000/month in Pattaya.
However upcountry Thailand is, I suspect, much cheaper than Cambodia, Laos, or Burma. In places like Sisaket or Korat you can stay in a hotel for 120-160 baht per night, food is 20 baht, and the third class train is almost free to go between cities. Apartments tend to run about 2,000-3,000 per month, and most hotels offer monthly rates. Non-touristed towns in south Thailand, surprisingly, are just as cheap, and I'm guessing places like Pitsanulok would be the same.
LittleBigMan
03-08-07, 08:04
Thanks fellas for the perfect direction to the bus station Elkamia ( spelling wrong ). Took the train from Nana to Elkamia 15 baht, bus station just down from the station. Purchase a ticket to Pattaya ( non-stop ) 117 Baht, bus left at 9:50am and arrived at the Pattaya station at 12:00 noon, grab a motorcycle taxi to the house for another 80 baht.
Ride was very enjoyable, had a conversation with a University student at the bus station waiting for the bus to arrive. She was surprise that I spoke English and I guess it gave her a opportunity to speak another language. For me she was still too young so I ended things since she was heading only straight to her home town Chon Buri. On the bus they issue seat assignment and ended up with another nice women age I believe to be in her early 30's. She spoke english because she happen to over hear me speaking with the young University student at the terminal. Within our conversation I some how felt she might have worked the bar sense before but didn't want to chance making a mistake. Some how I felt if we had met in BKK the night before we would have ended up in the sack. But since I live in Pattaya and she did also too close to home to chance getting caught. But LittleBigMan was thinking with his head and I had to control things. Overall, the bus ride was nice and certainly for the pocket book!
LBM
However upcountry Thailand is, I suspect, much cheaper than Cambodia, Laos, or Burma. In places like Sisaket or Korat you can stay in a hotel for 120-160 baht per night, food is 20 baht, and the third class train is almost free to go between cities. Apartments tend to run about 2,000-3,000 per month, and most hotels offer monthly rates. Opebo,
Never mind the hotel, the food and the train. You forgot the most important thing. The girls!
In Sisaket, Surin, Buriram, and Korat girls are available from 200bt and sometimes even cheaper.
Member #2041
03-10-07, 22:29
Anyone have any experience in buying an unlocked GSM phone in the MBK center for use in Thailand?
I am looking for a phone I can use in Thailand, Vietnam, and China, with appropriate SIM cards.
Any idea what I would be expected to pay for such a phone, as well as a Thai SIM card pre-loaded with something in the vicinity of 100 to 200 minutes?
My alternative would be to buy a used unlocked GSM phone on ebay for the vicinity of $30~35 and buy SIM cards in the various countries, and I'm just trying to figure out which would be the best approach.
The Thai SIM and 50 b credit will cost 199b so it certainly is not expensive. Make sure you get a 4 band phone, a lot of them are 2 band. I bought a Nokia 9100 for 1300b, loved it in Thailand but when I got home and put my Rogers SIM in it it would not work as in Canada with Rogers you need 4 band it is just 2. You should be able to get a good one for 2000b or less depending on the features you want. I bought my first Siemens A70 on ebay new in Canada 4 band unlocked for 65.00. Hope this helps!
Cactus J
Foregot to add, you will need a different SIM card in each country, they are not compatable between different countries.
Cactus J
Anyone have any experience in buying an unlocked GSM phone in the MBK center for use in Thailand?
I am looking for a phone I can use in Thailand, Vietnam, and China, with appropriate SIM cards.
Any idea what I would be expected to pay for such a phone, as well as a Thai SIM card pre-loaded with something in the vicinity of 100 to 200 minutes?
My alternative would be to buy a used unlocked GSM phone on ebay for the vicinity of $30~35 and buy SIM cards in the various countries, and I'm just trying to figure out which would be the best approach.
Get yourself a Motorola Quad band phone (850/900/1800/1900 Mhz) that works everywhere and buy only sim cards in every country you visit.
In Tokyu shoppping mall Siam square (if I recall) they will unlock any phone for you for about 300-400 Baht.Too many shops dealing with cell phones there.
Traveler1234
03-11-07, 08:14
Anyone have any experience in buying an unlocked GSM phone in the MBK center for use in Thailand?
Any idea what I would be expected to pay for such a phone, as well as a Thai SIM card pre-loaded with something in the vicinity of 100 to 200 minutes?
My alternative would be to buy a used unlocked GSM phone on ebay for the vicinity of $30~35 and buy SIM cards in the various countries, and I'm just trying to figure out which would be the best approach.
At The Mall in Bangkapi area, I spent time looking at used phones and most of the decent used ones (not top of line) with triband cost around US$60+ up. Sim card on 1-2 Call is B$99 (you can get good number) and then you purchase time in increments of B$100.
Member #2041
03-11-07, 19:12
Thanks to everyone for all the phone info. FYI, I just picked up a used unlocked Moto V180 tri-band (missing the 850-band, which I don't need, but has 900/1800/1900 bands - which covers all of Asia, as well as Cingular and T-Mobile in the U.S.) for $33 including shipping on ebay from a knowledgeable seller who specializes in cell phones and has great feedback seller ID: fgcoinc945 has 99.9% positive feedbacks in over 3000 transactions, nearly all of which are cell-phones.
I also picked up a T-Mobile SIM pre-charged with $30 of initial time for $6 on ebay as well, to test out the phone and use it locally for my mongering here in the U.S.
As these were ebay purchases, I won't know how decent this phone is until it arrives and I get to use it, but it was cheap, and I am not looking for a heavy duty phone, just one that works in all of Asia as well as on T-Mobile or Cingular Go network in California.
As I don't leave for Asia for 3 more weeks, I should have plenty of time to sort through all of this and test out my phone before I go.
I bought a quad band cell phone in the USA recently. I am in Peru now using
a sim card. I will be going to So East Asia soon. Does anybody know if I could
keep the same number in every country I visit? my phone is unlocked.
Member #2041
03-12-07, 04:06
I bought a quad band cell phone in the USA recently. I am in Peru now using
a sim card. I will be going to So East Asia soon. Does anybody know if I could
keep the same number in every country I visit? my phone is unlocked.
No. You will need a new phone number for each new service you activate with a SIM card for that country. You might find one service that covers more than one country through partnership agreements without changing SIM cards, but you will pay major bucks to roam across any nation other than the home country of the service you are using.
I bought a quad band cell phone in the USA recently. I am in Peru now using a sim card. I will be going to So East Asia soon. Does anybody know if I could keep the same number in every country I visit? my phone is unlocked.Is the sim chip you are using in Peru a sim chip purchased from a cellphone company there? It will not work in Thailand unless it has international service. As you go from Asian country to country you will have to purchased a sim chip for each Asian country you go to if you want to keep your calling down to a reasonable cost.
Now if you have an American cellphone company that you normally use then you can use use that same number in Thailand and many other Asian countries. But you will be paying way to much to use the cellphone in Thailand. I have Cingular in the US and can use my phone in Thailand and Hong Kong but I will be paying thought the nose to do so. About $1.99 a minute more or less depending on which country I may be in.
The thing to do is like what most everyone I know does, is purchase a Thailand cellphone sim chip when you get there and you will be paying very little for usage as compared if you were using an American service. You will be able to have local and international service and you can pick up a sim chip at local Thailand 7/11's.
No. You will need a new phone number for each new service you activate with a SIM card for that country. You might find one service that covers more than one country through partnership agreements without changing SIM cards, but you will pay major bucks to roam across any nation other than the home country of the service you are using.
Have to agree with #2041 on this one. Sure you can activate your SIM for roaming, but that gets real expensive, real fast if you're going to do a lot of calls. You will pay for someone calling you from the country in which you bought your SIM. Also no one in another country will want to call you because it's an international call from their cell phones. Best to get a new SIM in the local country you visit so that you can give that number to the local girls.
Thank you all very much for your response, I sure know more about cell
phones now, thanks...
Member #2041
03-13-07, 05:27
Thank you all very much for your response, I sure know more about cell
phones now, thanks...
Well Samu Ray, the good news is, you've already got the kind of phone (Unlocked Quad Band GSM) that can be used in any country you need. All you need now is a new Sim Card and some prepaid time for any country that you'll be in. It means a new phone number in each place, but it's cheap. You can probably get up and running with a new SIM card in any place you want for $10 or less in any country, and from then on, you'll be paying local rates.
LittleBigMan
03-13-07, 11:05
Anyone know anything about the Expat club that meets at the Grand Sole once a month in Pattaya?
LBM
PosterLion
03-15-07, 06:04
a valentine poem to my (thai) wife
another dick in your pussy
one more dick in your mouth
three million baht in your bank account
it's your money and i don't care
who's dick
you put in there
a poem on any other day to my (thai) wife
now that i've found you
i want to build my house around you
because you're every lover i've ever loved
and you're every lover i'll never love
because you're every place i've ever seen
and you're every place i'll never see
because you're every thing i've ever been
and you're every thing i'll never be
because without you i can't imagine me
because . . . you are everything
my darling
everything
P.S. just a random thought for the Living N Thailand Board
a valentine poem to my (thai) wife
...
a poem on any other day to my (thai) wife
...
PosterLion,
Let go, my friend.
Come here, stay here for some weeks, there will always be a room for you. Life will look better again.
Giotto
PosterLion,
Let go, my friend.
Come here, stay here for some weeks, there will always be a room for you. Life will look better again.
Giotto
I can't take more than a few days of them and I have to head off somplace else.
So this Giotto's Lodge. Where is it?
I can't take more than a few days of them and I have to head off somplace else.
So this Giotto's Lodge. Where is it?BuleDaddy,
LOL :) . You find all necessary information here:
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=754
See you.
Giotto
The Traveler
03-15-07, 22:32
Anyone know anything about the Expat club that meets at the Grand Sole once a month in Pattaya?
LBM
LBM,
I think you may find everything I could ever tell you about it on their website
http://www.pattayaexpatsclub.com/
Member #2041
03-16-07, 08:00
It looks like I did pretty well in my search for a bargain phone for my Asia trip.
I picked up a used Motorola V180 Tri Band (900/1800/1900) Unlocked GSM phone in pretty nice shape on ebay. Total cost $20 + $13 shipping.
I got an activated T-Mobile SIM card with $30 of time on it for $6 also on ebay to test the phone here in the U.S.. It works fine. I can't change the phone number on this SIM card, but that's no problem - I plan on using this card to call my Thai GF from the states prior to my arrival, and otherwise just for my mongering applications until the card expires in a couple of months.
So all I need is a Thai Sim card with some time when I arrive, and another one for China when I get there.
I'm planning a trip and want to know about charging camera equipment and mp3 players with some sort of converter. I'm coming from the USA. Any help would be appreciated.
I'm wondering what employment opportunities exist in Thailand and how each of you makes a living. I read a article about some begger living in Bangkok making 30, 000 baht a month on the streets off tourists. My thai girlfriend is always asking me to come there and live with her, but it doesn't seem like a possibility. One, how do you get around the visa? Two, how do you make a living?
Retired Army
03-26-07, 07:06
I'm planning a trip and want to know about charging camera equipment and mp3 players with some sort of converter. I'm coming from the USA. Any help would be appreciated.
Thailand is 220-240 volts; the U.S. is 110. Most cell phones, computers and cameras are auto voltage. Check the adapter and see if it says 110-250V. If it does then just plug in. If the adapter says only 110-120 v then you must use an adapter which you can get an any travel shop (or Wal Mart) in the U.S. or you can buy a cheap 220-110 adapter when you get here from Pantip Plaza. Another option is to use the 110-220 shaver plug in the bathroom. Just be careful you plug it into the correct side (110v).
Retired Army
03-26-07, 07:07
I'm wondering what employment opportunities exist in Thailand and how each of you makes a living. I read a article about some begger living in Bangkok making 30, 000 baht a month on the streets off tourists. My thai girlfriend is always asking me to come there and live with her, but it doesn't seem like a possibility. One, how do you get around the visa? Two, how do you make a living?
You don't!
Jungle Bluebird
03-26-07, 08:45
Saw a foreigner recently begging on Silom. Prompted him on why. His answer: I cannot get a work permit. He looked healthy to me, about 30, simply sitting there middle of the day and begging. Thai's always polite actually gave him money (case of songsan).
Maybe 10 meters from him an old Thai lady tries to make a living by selling fried chicken.
The guy upset me so much that I completely lost my cool and threatened him to kick the shit out of him if he does not [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) off. So embarrassing this guy. Resilient ass he was too. Not giving an inch.
Guess it may work for him. Daily collection about THB 200, means 3 meals and he can sleep outside (nice and warm in the night).
I'm planning a trip and want to know about charging camera equipment and mp3 players with some sort of converter. I'm coming from the USA. Any help would be appreciated.
NicFrenchy
03-26-07, 09:23
My thai girlfriend is always asking me to come there and live with her, but it doesn't seem like a possibility. One, how do you get around the visa? Two, how do you make a living?If she is rich (100k+) per month, you can move tomorrow and live here quite comfortably with that amount.
Visa will be a pickle. Just tourist will work, go out the country every second month.
30, 000 per month is just too low. Even if you watch your expenses. 100k is also low, but you can make it easily for 2 with that.
Good luck
Old Thai Hand
03-26-07, 10:52
I'm wondering what employment opportunities exist in Thailand and how each of you makes a living. I read a article about some begger living in Bangkok making 30, 000 baht a month on the streets off tourists. My thai girlfriend is always asking me to come there and live with her, but it doesn't seem like a possibility. One, how do you get around the visa? Two, how do you make a living?
1/ You can't get around the visa.
2/ What do you want to do? More importantly, what are your qualifications?
Aslan, there is only one job redily open to the foriegner in Thailand, and that is teaching. Usually English, and though many teachers are ostensibly teaching some other subject, they're mostly teaching English because their students will typically not understand the language. These jobs virtually all pay 25,000-40,000/month, with the great majority right at the very low end of the thirties. You could probably realistically move here and expect to make, in all likelihood, 30,000/month. Sounds like peanuts, and it is, but then again it is getting to be damn near a thousand dollars as our currency collapses, and in any case seems a generous income to thais.
You must have a degree, and for most schools you must be white - yes they are very racist. The jobs are horribly difficult, the Thais are unpleasant to work with, and the system is a rigid, senseless bureaucracy. But if you don't mind getting up at seven in the morning or dealing with people who despise you all day long, I recommend it.
Old Thai Hand
03-27-07, 02:59
o****
it is in fact a teacher's market right now. with all the draconian measures over the last year, that you so love to waffle on about, hoards of less-than-qualified teachers have vacated los for the greener pastures of vietnam, and china, where they are far less likely to scrutinize qualifications.
consequently, jobs in the 30,000 range are going begging, as there is a huge shortage of teachers and those staying, who have the right qualifications are demanding and getting more. i have a good friend, who toiled for years teaching esl to kiddies making 30,000-35,000/month. his salary has suddenly shot up to 60,000 in the last year. more and more schools are paying this and even more, in order to keep good teachers from leaving.
although i don't teach english, it is effecting my area of teaching even more because of the amount of expertise required. i expect my salary to increase 25% when my contract is renewed in may. you'd never get that kind of raise in the west.
NicFrenchy
03-27-07, 06:17
Wow. I never realised there was such low salaries for expats.
As I said before, I have been here only 2 years and the people I socialise with are all expats with pretty decent jobs.
I couldn't even imagine surviving in LOS with those kind of salaries. I would never be able to afford my mongering lifestyle. ;)
o****
it is in fact a teacher's market right now. with all the draconian measures over the last year, that you so love to waffle on about, hoards of less-than-qualified teachers have vacated los for the greener pastures of vietnam, and china, where they are far less likely to scrutinize qualifications.
consequently, jobs in the 30,000 range are going begging, as there is a huge shortage of teachers and those staying, who have the right qualifications are demanding and getting more. i have a good friend, who toiled for years teaching esl to kiddies making 30,000-35,000/month. his salary has suddenly shot up to 60,000 in the last year. more and more schools are paying this and even more, in order to keep good teachers from leaving.
i'm well aware of the teacher shortage, oth. i have bolded the portion of your post that is of most interest. after all, how likely is it that a random monger wishing to move to thailand, such as aslan, has a ba in 'education'?
most of us middle-class types have a degree, true, but very few in that singularly boring field.
Wow. I never realised there was such low salaries for expats.
As I said before, I have been here only 2 years and the people I socialise with are all expats with pretty decent jobs.
I couldn't even imagine surviving in LOS with those kind of salaries. I would never be able to afford my mongering lifestyle. ;)
In fairness, NicFrenchy, 30-35,000 baht/month is a large salary for Thailand, and certainly more than most Thais make. Look at it this way - most of my aquaintances back home make about $3,000/month after taxes, and an expat makes about $1,000/month here. The difference is the cost of living is about 1/5 that of back home, so realistically - as long as he never buys any flights home - he has a higher standard of living.
Old Thai Hand
03-27-07, 17:48
I'm well aware of the teacher shortage, OTH. I have bolded the portion of your post that is of most interest. After all, how likely is it that a random monger wishing to move to Thailand, such as Aslan, has a BA in 'Education'?
Most of us middle-class types have a degree, true, but very few in that singularly boring field.
True. But, you can do an education qualification through the Min. of Ed. here, while you're teaching. If your aim is a top notch International school then you have to do the PGCE which you can do through distance learning, but it's pricey (6,000 pounds from England, much less from Australia or Singapore). But, after that you'll be easily earning over 100,000 baht/month.
I don't have an education qualification, BTW. But, you don't need one to teach university here. Next semester, I'll be over 130,000/month.
Traveler1234
03-27-07, 18:09
Old topic, discussed many times, eg
http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=482552&postcount=936
If you do the math in my post, one could make B$90,000 a month if you include all the extras thrown in (assume $21 per hr and 30 hrs per week). And evenings free to monger....if you consider this a 'future' or career.
Hoodyspeas
03-27-07, 22:02
I'm pretty new to the board, but I'm going to be doing some traveling (and some minor mongering) in Thailand in October & November. I'm looking to kind of base my travels throughout SE Asia in Bangkok which seems to be the big airport hub in the region. I'm trying to get away from staying at hotels and looking for short term apartments in Bangkok.
Does anyone have any recommendations as to decently priced placese that I might be able to rent for about 2 months?
Thanks
Jungle Bluebird
03-28-07, 04:38
In fairness, NicFrenchy, 30-35,000 baht/month is a large salary for Thailand, and certainly more than most Thais make. Most of the Thai's in my company get well over THB 30k. Many get around 50-80,000 THB per month. If you look for employees with no English skills, yes, loads - top HR material - at low rates. However, experienced people with special skill sets no longer work for peanuts. No better time then now for headhunters.
The difference is the cost of living is about 1/5 that of back home, so realistically - as long as he never buys any flights home - he has a higher standard of living.If one is happy with fried rice, sure. If you want proper food you pay more in Thailand then in the US or Europe. Reason is simple. Most quality consumer goods are imported. To live decent in Bangkok min. would be THB 100,000 per month. All else would be for temp. stays, i.e. backpackers and burnouts.
Most overseas company's pay premium salaries for expats living in Bangkok. There is a reason for this, Bangkok is a dump and quality of living is poor, compared to US or Europe.
For start ups - i.e. entrepreneurs - Thailand is tough, simply to few Thai's with disposable income. However real estate etc... where money comes form overseas works.
Best chance for any white boy to get a job is on Phuket. Chronically a shortage for qualified labor.
NicFrenchy
03-28-07, 06:21
In fairness, NicFrenchy, 30-35,000 baht/month is a large salary for Thailand, and certainly more than most Thais make. Good god! my rent is almost double that. I understand that life in LOS is cheap, but if one is to partake in excessive mongering (like me LOL) then you need the cash flow ;)
Traveler1234
03-28-07, 12:35
Does anyone have any recommendations as to decently priced placese that I might be able to rent for about 2 months?
Thanks
The Traveler just posted a directory, I then put it up on RoD thread - please RTFF.
Good god! my rent is almost double that. I understand that life in LOS is cheap, but if one is to partake in excessive mongering (like me LOL) then you need the cash flow ;)
NicFrenchy, everyone has made interesting comments about very high incomes and very high cost of living. It is certainly true that a very small percentage of expatiates (and even Thais) make the high incomes mentioned. But it is useful for potential expats to know that this is very atypical, and that they should be prepared for the most likely possibility -that their income will be around 30-35 thousand baht.
By the way, my rent, with utilities, never breaches 3,500/month.
If one is happy with fried rice, sure. If you want proper food you pay more in Thailand then in the US or Europe.
I'm not sure what you eat, JB, but personally I love Thai food, and never eat fried rice (obviously you know very little about the local cuisine if you give that as your example).
By the way, my rent, with utilities, never breaches 3,500/month.
In Bangkok? I can't wait to see your hovel... well I can't say I'm surprised, your reputation precedes you.
Old Thai Hand
03-28-07, 17:35
Junglebird
100,000 minimum/month. You must be on crack!
One can live quite nicely here on 40-50,000 and not ever set eyes on a plate of fried rice.
I just rented a very nice, relatively new 1 bedroom apartment near Asoke for 20,000/month - completely furnished with all brand new appliances.
I shop at Villa every week, eat out a lot, only eat Thai foods sometimes, take taxis everywhere and support 2 women - basically don't skimp on anything and do it for under 50,000.
If you're spending the equivalent of close to $3,000 US/month in Bangkok, you're a idiot.
Jungle Bluebird
03-29-07, 03:30
OTH
Interesting that you call someone an idiot who, as a matter of fact, simply enjoys a higher living standard. I had figured you for a more liberal mind.
Here a breakdown of expenses (example):
- rent (nice 120 sqm condo, close to BTS) = @ 60,000
- car payments, decent car = THB 30,000
- food, incl going out every second night = THB 30,000
- weekend getaways (a must) = THB 20,000
- memberships, insurances, private health. plus clothes, various = THB 25,000
- maid, driver etc.. = THB 20,000
Total = THB 185,000
now add g/f expenses and P4P... easily it reaches THB 240,000.
Call me an idiot, but why roughing it. Surely one can sit in stinking taxies daily, or do all the washing by yourself. I rather come home and have all done for me. In fact I do not pay a single bill, never wash or fill up my car, never do any housework, always stay 5 star hotels and fly business class only.
A lot of this I an do because such luxuries are affordable in Thailand compared to Europe/US. With a higher income it would be silly – I figure – not to enjoy life while I can.
If you're spending the equivalent of close to $3,000 US/month in Bangkok, you're a idiot.
NicFrenchy
03-29-07, 09:01
I fully agree with Jungle here.
OTH, 50k a month gets you nowhere... unless you want to live like a Thai.
Here's my expenses:
- rent (nice 250 sqm condo, close to BTS) = @ 80,000k Inc Cable/internet/maid...
- food = THB 30,000 (don't only eat thai... if you want a nice steak in LOS.. it's pricey)
- Shopping = THB 30,000
- Driver = Free (paid by company)
- Life insurance = 10k
- Mongering = 50k+
That's 200k, and I'm not overdoing it. Seriously. Of course, this lifestyle would cost me triple that in Europe. But I don't care because I don't spend money I don't have.
I also have quite a nice amount I save on a monthly basis ;)
NicFrenchy
03-29-07, 09:17
Thais are scrupulous about washing their asses, the farang dry cleaning methods (using toilet paper) is unclean in the view of some Thais.
This was posted (not on ISG) and I would like to see what people here think about it. Personally I think this is a bunch of shit.
I have been living and working in this country for 2 years now and I can tell you that Higiene is certainly not the Forte of Thai people.
This is not just ranting, I actually have evidence to support my claim:
1. Men Washroom: In my 2 years, I have yet to see a Thai male wash his hands; I'm not talking about rinsing half a finger pretending to wash their hands. I am talking about the use of soap. One thing Thai men like to do though, is contemplate and adjust their hairstyle in the bathroom mirror. Or licking their fingers and applying the saliva on their eyebrows.
2. Food court at Work: I have also yet to see my staff, men or women, wash their hands before and after lunch. I won't even go to the extent as to expect them to brush their teeth after a meal.
3. In the office: Obviously, who says "office" in Thailand says "food". We have a lot of food lying around the office. From the basic fruits up to the Khao phad. Thai (both sexes) take the food with their hands, stuff it in their mouth and go about their work as if nothing happened. I can tell you that the once "white" computer keyboards are now quite colorful.
And I'm not working with the lower class. These are Thais that earn between 40 to 80k per month.
I don't even want to imagine what these regular girls smell like "down there" LOL At least, the Working girls get more than 1 shower a day
Just apalled that Thais would comment on others higiene when they rarely practice it themselves.
Peace
In Bangkok? I can't wait to see your hovel... well I can't say I'm surprised, your reputation precedes you.
Dear Finrod, I do not reside in the Capital, nor would I recommend that anyone do so - it is too hot.
As for the budgetary debate preceding this post - fellows, we can all type fantasy budgets for millionaires, but the central point you fail to recognize is this - most expats make about 30-35 thousand baht per month; perhaps slightly more in Bangkok. The real challenge is to write a budget for the likely income.
Old Thai Hand
03-29-07, 12:11
Dear Finrod, I do not reside in the Capital, nor would I recommend that anyone do so - it is too hot.
As for the budgetary debate preceding this post - fellows, we can all type fantasy budgets for millionaires, but the central point you fail to recognize is this - most expats make about 30-35 thousand baht per month; perhaps slightly more in Bangkok. The real challenge is to write a budget for the likely income.
For once I agree with you.
One of my best friends is a lawyer here and works for the top law firm in LOS, who among other things negotiates leases for Paragon. His salary is 150,000/month which affords him quite a nice lifestyle. Another friend who owns his own company with a couple of dozen employees and is making money hand over fist, still only pays himself around 150,000. The few Farang that I know making considerably more are working for multimationationals and are only here on a temporary posting. They are expats, but relatively short-term (1-3 years). Therefore they can afford to live high on the hog because they are merely long-term visitors and will move on to somewhere else or back home. But, the average long-timer, most of whom are teaching English are making considerably less, perhaps not at the level that Opebo keeps referring to, but not much above 60,000.
Junglebird. I apologize for calling you an idiot. That was out of line.
But, unless one works for a foreign company and is making a foreign wage, or is simply well-off, and I'm not doubting that you are, chances are slim that one could afford such a lifestyle.
I consider myself relatively well off compared to most Farang, at least teachers, and I don't consider myself a 'backpacker' or a 'burnout' as you so cynically put it. If I was a professor in the US, I'd make around $55,000 gross, and around $37,000 net per year at a first-tier private college or university. Some state universities pay considerably less. I was offered $44,000 a couple of years ago by U. of Montana. I can make more here, even if it's a peasant's wage compared to your apparent lofty earnings.
NicFrenchy
03-29-07, 16:16
The few Farang that I know making considerably more are working for multimationationals and are only here on a temporary posting. They are expats, but relatively short-term (1-3 years). Therefore they can afford to live high on the hog because they are merely long-term visitors and will move on to somewhere else or back home. This is exactly my situation, I had a 2 years contract that was just renewed for another 2 years.
I work for a Thai company and they pay expats Extremely well, also pay in THB (great for me, especially now that the $ is sinking).
Like Jungle, I live a very comfortable life because I can afford it.
Still, 30 to 35k is very low for a Farang... My secretary alone makes 60k (she speaks English and German and can write both languages without spelling mistakes or syntax errors. Very rare in LOS). And, if I am not mistaken, don't you need a minimum of 50k to even qualify for a work permit as a Foreigner?
If you're spending the equivalent of close to $3,000 US/month in Bangkok, you're a idiot.
True, but when I looked back at this and thought of my years in Pattaya, I think I must have spent about $2,000 a month, and that's living in a 5,000 baht a month place and eating almost exclusively Thai food. Four short times a day can run up one's costs. ;)
At todays exchange rates that would be more like $2,500/month.
. Four short times a day can run up one's costs.
.
BB short times I assume. These generally cost a little more than protected ones!
Old Thai Hand
03-30-07, 01:32
This is exactly my situation, I had a 2 years contract that was just renewed for another 2 years.
I work for a Thai company and they pay expats Extremely well, also pay in THB (great for me, especially now that the $ is sinking).
Like Jungle, I live a very comfortable life because I can afford it.
Still, 30 to 35k is very low for a Farang... My secretary alone makes 60k (she speaks English and German and can write both languages without spelling mistakes or syntax errors. Very rare in LOS). And, if I am not mistaken, don't you need a minimum of 50k to even qualify for a work permit as a Foreigner?
Well, more power to you. However, you don't know much about the real world here. Teachers are exempted from the minimum salary rule for work permits because their salaries are relatively low. There are loads of upcountry schools that pay even in the teens (15,000-18,000) to Farang ESL teachers. While lots of Farang teachers in BKK make in the 40,000-60,000 range, Opebo is correct that 30-35,000 is the norm in a lot of schools.
If your Thai secretary makes 60k, she's a rare exception. Thai professors with PhDs at Chulalongkorn U. only make 24,500/month. My Thai assistant, who has a BA in Architecture and worked professionally for 2 years in Singapore makes 14,000/month. I have a good friend who's executive secretary to the president in a Japanese company and makes 28,000 and considers herself extremely fortunate. The national average salary for Thais is 6,000/month.
Both you and Junglebird are extremely fortunate to earn what you do. But you are both in the minority. What I don't like is the condescending attitude on his part ("backpackers and burn-outs") for anyone making below 100,000/month, because the reality on the ground is that the vast majority of Farang here make considerably less than that.
Also, if you have lived here long enough you can get the most for the least (just like mongering). For example, I got my condo, cheaply through negotiation with the owner. If you rent from the building, you pay 40,000-50,000. But, I dealt privately with the owner and got it for half. I don't own a car because cars are overpriced and a waste of money. I use a private radio taxi service that picks me up every morning at my building. I'm given a per diem by one of my universities that more than covers my taxis. But, even I am a rare exception in the world of teaching. Most teachers in Bangkok can be seen riding around on the back of motorcycles because that's all they can afford. This is the reality of Farang in Thailand.
You two are lucky, but need to wake up and smell the coffee.
NicFrenchy
03-30-07, 03:57
OTH,
Interesting post. Yes, I have to say this is a side of "Thailand" I do not know about. Most of my expat friends are older than me and also make an ok living.
Now, I can only speak about Bangkok because that is where most of my work is done, if you look at an English speaking Thai person (not Thinglish, Real English) then you cannot pay them less than 40k. Sure you can find cheaper ones, but they would be a total disaster.
I have a friend who works in a Hotel and told me his sales ladies all gross 40+k/month. If you don't pay these salaries, they will leave after a few months.
Retired Army
03-30-07, 07:38
One can live quite nicely here on 40-50,000 and not ever set eyes on a plate of fried rice.
If you're spending the equivalent of close to $3,000 US/month in Bangkok, you're a idiot.
Then I must be an idiot! I have a six figure income in U.S. dollars, a 3 bedroom luxury apartment on Wireless Road paid for by my employer, no car and I still found BKK expensive. But then again, I ate out a lot at good restaurants (Bourbon Street mostly), drank a lot of beer, traveled a lot within the country, had a maid and didn't monger much because of my GF.
What did I do wrong?
...
What did I do wrong?Retired Army,
LOL. Simple - you spent too much money!
Giotto
NicFrenchy
03-30-07, 07:55
I ate out a lot at good restaurants This is also my problem. I like to eat well, and I don't eat Thai food in the evening (I eat Thai for lunch).
When I go to eat in a nice restaurant, with a friend, we always pay around 10k. wine alone is 5k. Steaks (good ones. not the Thai beef) are also expensive.
Most middle class Farangs restaurants will be around 700 to 1k per person (without wine).
Buying meat and Cheese @ Villa market or Emporium is also quite expensive.
Sure you can eat for under 100 thb every day @ the food stalls outside:
- Rice/Chicken for Breakfast 30thb
- Curry for lunch 30thb
- soup for dinner 25thb
To each their own.
I love the Food stalls outside, the food there is fantastic, but don't go there too often as the heat is killing me.
Jungle Bluebird
03-30-07, 08:09
OTH
I think one must differentiate between short term Thailand visitors and expats who actually live here full time. Realities vary greatly. For example: looking at most of the pics posted in the image gallery, many of the girls shown I would not touch with a pole. I do not blame tourists for sampling dark skinned street urchins, they simply do not know better.
Short stay visitors may work as language teachers. With all being new and great one can surely live on THB 30,000. In fact I can only recommend this for adventurers and those who have the life ahead of them. There is no better way to explore a country while working.
For the full time resident a complete different set of rules apply. Work permit requires a min. salary THB 50k to start with. Health insurance, must be private, single room/bed at Bungrunrad in case of emergencies. Annual expense for this are already around THB 50-80K.
Living conditions. Yes you want a nice place to find shelter from all the dirt and heat outside. So we are talking UBC access, air con’s etc. Also retirement schemes apply, such as condo purchases etc. Then one surely wants to go for a permanet residence visa or a Thai passport. This allows for land ownership and a must have for long term residence.
Bottom line, the mind set is very different between a tourist, a short time visitor or long term staying expats. In your case, OTH, I think you do not want to compare your employment to that of a Berlitz language teacher. From what I read it appears far more long term and intellectually more rewarding.
Many of the issues raised in this forum are not realistic for me, I’ve been there, done that years ago. Through hard work I earned the living standard I enjoy today. With the experience gained, socially and economically, I can only advise those interested NOT to work here, unless it’s merely a job for a few month. Thailand does not have much to offer economically, so its easy to waste time in this country.
Well, more power to you. However, you don't know much about the real world here. ...You two are lucky, but need to wake up and smell the coffee.
Retired Army
03-30-07, 09:01
When I go to eat in a nice restaurant, with a friend, we always pay around 10k. wine alone is 5k. Steaks (good ones. not the Thai beef) are also expensive.
Buying meat and Cheese @ Villa market or Emporium is also quite expensive.
I forgot about paying $30 for a $5 bottle of wine every day. And those Australian steaks at 1,000 baht a kilo and my membership at the Pegagus Club. It all adds up.
Old Thai Hand
03-30-07, 11:06
Junglebird
You're right. Realities vary. BTW, although you're correct about 50k for work permits, if you work for a private company, it's much less if you work for a public company, the Thai govt or are a teacher.
Interestingly, I just found out today that I have been paying income tax that as a Farang govt employee, I don't have to pay. So, I'm going to get all my tax back from last year. From now on I will not pay any tax.
If I was 25 or 30 y.o., earning a relatively low-wage would be fine as it would be, as you suggest an adventure. What I can't figure out are guys my age (55) and even older working as ESL teachers for shit wages. There are literally loads of these guys in BKK. I see one of these balding, nearly geriatric geezers sweating his ass off on a motocycle taxi with his requisite book bag over his shoulder and a stressed look on his face and wonder, "what the fuck did that guy do wrong in his life to end up like this?"
As for Thai salaries...
The Thai average salary is as I stated 6000/month which is why there are so many girls in P4P. Why would a girl want to work 10 hours/day, 6 days/week for 3,000-4,000 month in a factory when she can earn that much in a night shagging some sad-ass monger?
There are loads of factory jobs going begging because prostitution is just more lucrative.
NicFrenchy
03-30-07, 11:35
What I can't figure out are guys my age (55) and even older working as ESL teachers for shit wages. There are literally loads of these guys in BKK. I think that the only logical reason would be "Pussy". Young, fresh Pussy, abundantly available and still very affordable.
Retired Army
03-30-07, 12:56
What I can't figure out are guys my age (55) and even older working as ESL teachers for shit wages. There are literally loads of these guys in BKK. I see one of these balding, nearly geriatric geezers sweating his ass off on a motocycle taxi with his requisite book bag over his shoulder and a stressed look on his face and wonder, "what the fuck did that guy do wrong in his life to end up like this?"
He came to Thailand for a 1 week vacation, met the girl of his dreams at Nana Entertainment Plaza, went home, quit his job, divorced his fat Western white wife, came back, lost all his money supporting his Thai girl friend's family, etc, etc, etc...
Old Thai Hand
03-30-07, 14:05
He came to Thailand for a 1 week vacation, met the girl of his dreams at Nana Entertainment Plaza, went home, quit his job, divorced his fat Western white wife, came back, lost all his money supporting his Thai girl friend's family, etc, etc, etc...
Oh....ya....I forgot :)
I forgot about paying $30 for a $5 bottle of wine every day. And those Australian steaks at 1,000 baht a kilo and my membership at the Pegagus Club. It all adds up.Retired Army,
And you forgot your Ferrari, which you need to impress the girls in Soi Nana :) .
Giotto
I've thought about teaching in Thailand or some other country in Asia. Given the salaries, I'd only do it at if I had enough investment income to supplement my salary and afford a better lifestyle than is available on 40k baht per month. Which is the kind of lifestyle I'm looking at when I retire, except that I plan to live it in the US and come over during the Xmas holidays and the summer season.
What I can't figure out are guys my age (55) and even older working as ESL teachers for shit wages. There are literally loads of these guys in BKK. I see one of these balding, nearly geriatric geezers sweating his ass off on a motocycle taxi with his requisite book bag over his shoulder and a stressed look on his face and wonder, "what the fuck did that guy do wrong in his life to end up like this?"
How do you mean 'go wrong', OTH? Quite simply, most people cannot get paid much money. To be paid a lot is a great rarity. Such is the life of the worker.
Try instead being born rich - that is really the best way, and what the system is built for.
Finrod - you really should not consider teaching in Thailand unless you have no other options. Teaching is a profoundly miserable job - incredible volumes of work, unreasonable expectations, and very early hours. Oh and by the way, what makes you think you'll get Christmas holidays - this is Thailand. You'll work that day. Also 'summer break here is typically a couple of weeks in March and April.
Retired Army
03-30-07, 20:31
Retired Army,
And you forgot your Ferrari, which you need to impress the girls in Soi Nana :) .
Giotto
I had a 110cc Honda Wave.
If I want to impress the girls I just lick my eybrows with my tongue.
Member #2041
03-30-07, 22:10
If I want to impress the girls I just lick my eybrows with my tongue.
Here in the U.S., that just means that you're green and you sell auto insurance.
Old Thai Hand
03-31-07, 03:23
Finrod - you really should not consider teaching in Thailand unless you have no other options. Teaching is a profoundly miserable job - incredible volumes of work, unreasonable expectations, and very early hours. Oh and by the way, what makes you think you'll get Christmas holidays - this is Thailand. You'll work that day. Also 'summer break here is typically a couple of weeks in March and April.
STOP COMMENTING ON TEACHING! You don't know what the fuck you're talking about.
You and I both know you have never taught here and therefore are not in a position to accurately comment on the profession.
Teaching is not miserable. There are many worse jobs that are much more stressful and far less rewarding.
Inaccuracies:
Holidays
1/ Teachers at elementary, secondary and Thai university programs (ESL) get 2 months paid holiday - end of March-end of May, which is Thai summer.
2/ Teachers at Thai govt schools get at least 10 days off at Christmas. It may be Dec. 26-Jan 6, or 7. But, you get it off. In recent years many Thai schools and most universities have started closing before Christmas as it has become a de facto holiday here. If you teach at an International school, you usually get 2-4 weeks. International programs at university usually break from around Dec. 15-Jan 7,8.
Workload:
1/ in the worse schools, contact hours are are still only about 20 with an additional 20 for class prep and paperwork - so, 40 hours/week: not much different than a regular job
2/ university workload is 12 hours/week. For example, at my full-time job, I go to work 2 days/week, teaching 6 hours each day. The rest of the time, I don't go in, but work at home, if I have to do any prep. However, because I've been teaching a long time, I have very minimal new prep to do. So, I teach part-time at another uni. I teach 9-5 one day/week there and get 10,500 baht for the day - that's 42,000 for 4 days work/month.
Salaries:
If you don't have a marketable specialty and can therefore only teach English, generally it's true that you won't make much beyond 60,000/month and that only at the best international schools. Generally it will be 35-40,000/month. But, you're teaching English...what do you expect? ESL teachers in the US make terrible salaries, too; not usually more than $1500/month. Why should it be any better here?
But, if you have an MSc, MBA or MFA, not to mention a PhD in something useful (sciences, IT, business- such as marketing, hotel and tourism etc., mass communications, art, graphic design), you can make a very good salary here teaching university. If you want to make a good salary at an International elementary and high school, you need the above specialties and some sort of teaching qualification which you can acquire here by taking a course.
The need for good qualifications would be true anywhere in the world, in order to get a good teaching job. Even in the States, there are "HOT" areas that are marketable and others than aren't worth a damn, which is why you meet the proverbial 'PhD in Comparative Literature' waiting tables in a restaurant or driving a cab.
The hot qualifications here are the same as those in many other places: Multimedia, Mass Communications and e-Marketing for example. If you've got a graduate degree and industry experience in these areas, but want to leave the rat race and come here to live, you can get a good salary teaching, especially if you can teach more than 1 or 2 subjects - I can teach about 40 different subjects spread across business, media, IT and design. But, I'm rather atypical.
If you don't meet these requirements, forget about it. You can't make a decent wage here anymore than you could with crap qualifications in the West.
Opebo, you're simply an 'average joe' with mediocre qualifications who has a chip on his shoulder.
Food for thought, OTH... Well I would be a math teacher when I get my credentials, not ESL though I have enough background for that. I've also worked in IT and telecom for many years so I could teach that too. So it's good to know I would likely do better than the average ESL teacher if I came over. But I still think I'll probably stick to teaching in the US and visiting Asia during the breaks. I will at least find some teachers to talk to during my next visit.
Traveler1234
03-31-07, 13:44
For all those serious about a teaching career, note that every Asian country has network of private schools, including international schools, 'american' schools, german schools, japanese schools, etc. etc. that recruit annually. If you are qualified and certified, there is at the same time a network (do a google search) of teachers that prefer the expat life.
Salaries are fairly competitive, including housing and living allowances, even round-trip airfare to home country, etc. I know of many teachers, some young, some middle aged who luv their work and living in Asia.
The key is "qualified and certified"....not just someone who thinks he/she can read, write and speak English. If you're some young dude trying to make ends meet, sure you might be able to get work 'teaching english'.....and your pay will be commersurate with your skills :)
Old Thai Hand
03-31-07, 14:14
I will at least find some teachers to talk to during my next visit.
I would be happy to provide you with more info in the future, if you so desire. As T1234 states, there are some pretty lucrative situations here if you know how to connect with them and you are highly qualified. International schools (elementary and secondary) recruit internationally and pay more for overseas hires than they do locally.
If you get into a first-tier International school in BKK teaching math, and IT for example, you can expect to make in the range of $3,000-4,000 US/month, (if recruited overseas) + housing, first-class insurance, return airfare and a end-of-contract bonus - usually 1 month for every year worked.
In the US, with the glut of PhDs floating around, there are more an more adjunct-only positions available at colleges and unis which pay in the range of as low as $25/hr for a community college to around $70/hr for a first-tier university like Cornell or Columbia.
Here the adjunct rate at universities ranges from $38-58/hr. Given the cost of living and low taxes here, this is comparable, if not better than the US.
People who complain about low pay and long hours couldn't even get hired as teachers in their home countries. But, they can get something here, or in Vietnam, China or Korea simply because they're white and a native speaker.
As far as I'm concerned these types make what they're worth and in many cases much more than they're worth.
Traveler1234
03-31-07, 14:47
But, they can get something here, or in Vietnam, China or Korea simply because they're white and a native speaker.
As far as I'm concerned these types make what they're worth and in many cases much more than they're worth.
I totally agree w/ your last statement :)
Retired Army
03-31-07, 14:57
wher can me get job teching that ther englesh in thailnd? me reed, rite and speek englesh reel gud.
Interesting discussion about teaching in Thailand. OTH and I have discussed this before. For my previous sins, I'm a university professor and consultant. While I briefly looked into the idea of relocating to Thailand, I soon decided there's no way I would work there at the rates they pay. I get paid well in Dubai, but on the other hand, the cost of living here is much higher than Thailand.
I'd hate to be scratching a living by teaching more than 20 hours per week across several subjects. Much better to be a specialist - better professional reputation (bigger demand for your services), less prep time, more time to have a life.
OTH - what's holding you back? She cannot be that good. :)
Well good lord man, how many people have those specific qualifications? They are very rare and expensive! But you make a good point - in our modern world, jobs are expensive to buy.Well good lord, Opebo, I come from a very poor non-English-speaking working class immigrant family. Throughout my 10 years of studies, I paid my costs throughout uni and PhD (and all my rent, food and other living costs) by working my butt off in factories, construction sites and restaurants, and bent my beautiful back picking beans in the sizzling Australian sun for a few bucks an hour (and often working 2-3 jobs at a time). It can be done, Comrade.
I'm nearing middle age without ever having to turn my hand to toil.I'm jealous. What's your secret to the easy life?
Old Thai Hand
04-01-07, 03:45
Piper
Yes. I'm well aware of the opportunities in Dubai.
I do plan to come to Dubai in a couple of years. But, I don't want to bail on my current job after only one year there. It wouldn't look good on the CV. Also, I'd go to Dubai for a few years and then come back here to retire. But, I'd still want to teach part-time even when retired. So, I want to solidify my connections here.
One of my great regrets was not taking a job at Zayed University in Dubai a few years ago when offered to me 3 times. That being said, they are always looking for new faculty and I'm sure I could get another shot there or elesewhere in Dubai with my qualifications.
One problem about Dubai, though is that Islamic shit about having to be married to your partner. That was my problem before and one of the main reasons I didn't come there. I would want to bring my GF. But, that's impossible, unless we're married and I don't want to do something silly like that. So, I'll have to leave her here which will obviously put a strain on our relationship, if not destroy it.
Opebo
You simply are full of shit when it comes to a lot of things, especially your opinions about teaching in Thailand.
You constantly challenge my statements about teaching, even though you are not a teacher and waffle on about the same old stuff and with the same misinformation. I've been teaching here for over 10 years. I'm the expert. You aren't. So, shut up, for Gawd's sake.
FYI, my 8 hr.day, in which I earn 10,500 baht, that you thought sounded so deadful is hardly drudgery or me exhausting myself by being "on stage". It's a computer lab, during which I spend most of the time reading or surfing the net after I spend about 20-30 minutes setting up the project for that day. It's hardly any work at all. I often leave class for awhile, go to the teacher's lounge for a coffee and a read of the newspaper, and go for a long lunch while the students work. They're not little kids, but 20 y.o. It's the easiest job in the world, short of the shiftless, life-of-Riley you seem to lead.
I find it odd and not a little hypocritical that a guy, who expouses a universal brotherhood, working-man, socialist mantra would in actual fact be a member of the liesure class, who by his own admission has never 'toiled' a day in his life.
Like Piper I got the qualifications, the experience and the success through hard work and drive. I have a terminal degree, that's actually worth a damn, as well as a graduate certificate in multimedia and 2 TEFL certificates (regular and advanced, just in case) which I earned with similar sweat-of-the-brow jobs that Piper also endured. In the past, I've been both well-off and on welfare. I arrived in Thailand in January 1997, legally bankrupt, owing back taxes with only $300 CDN in my pocket and a job I hated waiting for me in Canada. In the intervening years in Thailand, I've risen through my own efforts and force of will to a position of success, a good standard of living, a reasonable bank account and status in this country.
Therefore, I have little use for lay-abouts who are afraid of a little hard work. If your resources are finally dwindling, as you have indicated, get off your ass and get a job here, or go back to the "bad place" (as you describe it) and get a job there. Shut the fuck up and stop whining!
Jungle Bluebird
04-04-07, 05:20
Surely teaching is a way to make a living when in Thailand. Mind you, not really a building block for an entrepreneurial future. But then again, each his own.
What I try to come to terms with is WHY living in Thailand, or Bangkok for that matter? I lost my fascination for palm trees and beaches years ago. Girls, oh well, had loads but I surely can get as easily laid in Europe. Living properly here with all foreign amenities is at least as costly as Europe. So what is the attraction of living in the LOS?
It cannot be the Bangkok pollution, the never to be solved traffic problems, or the complete lack of activities one can do due to the constant heat, other then hunting little girls in air-conditioned shopping centers. It is surely not the money, as due to complete lack of government support and restricting local mentality issues, any attempt to run a business takes at least double the effort compared to the real world.
Why Thailand, why Bangkok? Surely I enjoy the regular Thai/oil massages and brigades of little sweethearts streaming out of office blocks during lunch hour. But what else is then?
Jungle Bluebird, forgive me if this post seems accusatory or argumentative, but surely you can see that your analysis applies only for the wealthy, and constitutes a slap in the face to the majority of forum member who do not enjoy that powerful status?
Things like an 'entrepreneurial future' are not available to most people, and ridiculing how they make the best of their bad situation is really quite impolite - the classic case of kicking the dog when he's down. Many people have such terrible options back in their homelands that even teaching in Thailand seems preferable. They will never be able to live 'properly', as you put it, so why taunt them for choosing one improper poverty over another?
I will close by saying that you should learn that with power, comes responsibility - noblesse oblige. Another way of putting this is - why do you enjoy taunting your inferiors in the social heirarchy?
Old Thai Hand
04-04-07, 16:17
surely teaching is a way to make a living when in thailand. mind you, not really a building block for an entrepreneurial future. but then again, each his own.
not so. in the particular field i'm in, there's lots of opportunities for entrepreneurial pursuits. many professors run businesses and have projects on the side, using the university, it's status and the connections it affords. i'm just getting hooked into this and have a lot of stuff in the pipeline that may finally get me up to your lifestyle level...lol
but, o**** is in part correct. i know people here making 40,000/month, some even less who still wouldn't trade it for a life 'back home' making a lot more money and with perhaps a brighter economic future. most say they are happier here and far less stressed than they were before. as long as some people have enough to live on, they don't care for the non-essentials.
but what else is then?
a friend of mine, who sometimes really gets sick of thailand says that, as shitty as this place is sometimes, other places are no better and are often far worse. i left here and went back to the "world" to give it a try again, and hated every second of it. i lasted 9 months and couldn't wait to get back. america, for example is a miserable place full of grumpy, paranoid people who are arrogant in their self-righteousness, but completely ignorant of the world outside their own borders. canada, (where i'm from) is over-regulated and has been taken over by rampant political correctness to a point that immigrants have more rights than people born there. england is, well...just shit - expensive, dreary and seething with an under-current of violence.
for me anyway, thailand affords the illusion that i'm still young, not merely because i can still get a 22 y.o. gf, (although that's certainly a big part of it), but in the way thais view my relationship with her, and generally how i am treated by thais. in canada, i'm very much reminded of just how old i am. i feel ancient. when i was back in the west teaching, my students were stunned that i had a gf in thailand, not much older than they were. some were actually disgusted. (i don't know, maybe they were right). here, my students take it in stride as something very normal because of the asian tradition of age differences in relationships.
it's true that compared to say somewhere like ny, london or paris, bangkok is nothing but a big, ugly asian city, singularly lacking in many leisure pursuits beyond the obvious one discussed ad nauseum on this board. but, there is still an urban life and culture here that can be fun. you just have to dig a little deeper to find it.
of course, the other thing to remember is that bangkok is not thailand. there are still places in this country not over-touristed or too abused by the thais that are pretty close to perfect.
Jungle Bluebird
04-05-07, 03:18
o****, you should be more careful with your comments, as you give it all away. your background, upbringing and current social status. your view is from the bottom up. and as such completely one sided, due to the apparent need to defend your current situation.
years ago when i traveled as a backpacker i made it my mission to spend not more then usd 20 per day. as a result i only hung out with bums, losers and always traveled 3rd class. looking back i say, what a waste of time.
i am not sure what powerful status you refer about. fact is i started with nothing (zero $$$) and worked hard to get where i am today. i truly believe that anyone can do anything, if one only puts your mind to it.
but then the world needs all sorts, one simply has to decide to be a sheep or a wolf. anything else is just media blabla based on misinformation shaped by local, social economic needs to fool the masses. as they say, the world is your oyster.
i have come to wealth working in thailand. now, as i travel a lot and live a nicer life, i come to understand what a mis-managed place this is. i simply went up the food chain, and having gained some ground - call it a broader vision - come to understand that from a money aspect thailand is a waste of time.
just sought some intelligent input, not o****s pre-packaged social babble.
jungle bluebird, forgive me if this post seems accusatory or argumentative, but surely you can see that your analysis applies only for the wealthy, and constitutes a slap in the face to the majority of forum member who do not enjoy that powerful status?
things like an 'entrepreneurial future' are not available to most people, and ridiculing how they make the best of their bad situation is really quite impolite - the classic case of kicking the dog when he's down. many people have such terrible options back in their homelands that even teaching in thailand seems preferable. they will never be able to live 'properly', as you put it, so why taunt them for choosing one improper poverty over another?
i will close by saying that you should learn that with power, comes responsibility - noblesse oblige. another way of putting this is - why do you enjoy taunting your inferiors in the social heirarchy?
LittleBigMan
04-05-07, 05:07
Not everyone who decides to live in Thailand is a loser. I certainly do not think of myself as one. Born and raise in the U.S. I never thought of living anywhere else but now I find myself here in Thailand at the young age of 55 retired, married and a father of a great son.
Like many of you I came to Thailand years ago to relax and enjoy the fruits and candy. As noted in recent reports in the fight club thread I didn't enjoy Bangkok and was persuaded to go to Pattaya by friends and to visit my brother. Here I met my wife ( a non-pro ) and had a son years later and years of going back and forth I finally decided to retire and live in Thailand. Why Thailand and not the U.S. to find the American dream? After nearly 30 years on a job I was making less than I was making in 1986, and now was working harder and longer just to stay above the water. I had my pension given to the government and my medical benefits reduced and reduced and as long as I work I had medical coverage but whether I retire now or another ten years later the moment I walk away from my job I would walk away not with a rolex but without medical coverage or any benefits. So I decide when I turn 55 I was gone because I wasn't going to allow the job to kill me. I had time left and I was going to enjoy it with my family but do it with less!
Today, I enjoy a simply life as a Thai millionaire with a small house with all the model items with a car and 2 motorbikes, I have medical insurance for me and my entire family for less that a $1000 USD a year and I'm completely debt free! Is Thailand the United States, certainly not, but life is more simple
and less stressful and I'm doing my best to adjust to the weather.
The main reason I'm here in Thailand is my family which I can provide much better than I can in the States. The other reason is I feel my great country has lost it ways and has abandon Americans like myself who are simple middle class. We have become a country of have or have not and the gap widens everyday! So personally I have made a choice and after 5 months of retirement I feel better mentally and physically and if you are wondering if I miss America I do but Thailand is my home now since America does not want me.
That's way I'm here and when I here I do wander off to taste the candy from time to time. LBM
Nice post LBM. I feel the same way. I find myself surrounded by people who could not care less about the US. My home state of California is gone. I don't recognize it. Politicians and business owners have turned there back on American workers. I don't waste time singing the blues about it, instead I'm working my butt off in order to move to Thailand in three years. Yes I love the ladies however I'm searching for a better life away from this overpriced, overtaxed, over legislated, feminist infested country of mine. I will always visit the US but I am counting the days until I can make the move to the LOS.
Stay cool stay free
I am puzzeled why Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch don't say anything about the 10 yr sentence in Thailand.
They scream every day about the rights of terrorists in Guantanomo but silent on this sentence.
If the US passed a similiar law would they accept it?
Old Thai Hand
04-05-07, 11:30
I have come to wealth working in Thailand. Now, as I travel a lot and live a nicer life, I come to understand what a mis-managed place this is. I simply went up the food chain, and having gained some ground - call it a broader vision - come to understand that from a money aspect Thailand is a waste of time.You came "to wealth" in Thailand, but "from a money aspect, Thailand is a waste of time"? Contradiction? Which is it?
I do think one can make money here and a lot of it. Is it an honest day's wage for an honest day's work? Absolutely not. One makes money here from playing the angles, the way the rich Thais do. While not out and out dishonest, it's often shadowy. I know loads of Thai profs earning only 25,000/month, yet driving a brand new Merc S-class, and they're not all rich HiSo types. There is a gray economy here in all kinds of fields, including education. I know a guy who got 1 million B. grant from the Ministry of Education for creating a English Language instruction manual for The Thai automotive industry - a complete waste of money. There is tones of money like this available if you can get connected.
Unlike LBM, I'll never retire. But, more power to him and good luck to him.
Personally, I like working here. Working in LOS is much less stressful than anything I ever encountered in Canada, or the US which is why I choose to live and work here. I've had some people make disparaging remarks about my being a teacher in a third world country, impying that I couldn't make it in the real world. Well, the truth is that I did and I still can make it in the real world. It would be very easy to get a job in the States or Canada. But, why? - to put up with winter, and a rapidly rising cost of living and pay 35% or more tax and still have no job security? It's true that Thai bosses are assholes and can really [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) you off, sometimes. But, so are most bosses everywhere. And, unlike some other Farang, I'm at least lucky to have sufficient power, now that I don't take too much shit from anyone, anymore. I pay only 7% tax and only on a portion of my income. My apartment is paid for by my employer, I have a good medical package. Although I have to live in BKK, I can get away whenever I want.
Even though I'm an older geezer, I can still pull loads of birds and I don't care why they want to be with me. If I was at home in Canada, I wouldn't have the choice, but would only be stuck with fat, old, miserable bitches.
Jungle Bluebird
04-05-07, 13:19
Ever so observant OTH. Just the right niche at the right time. That did it for me. Tons of money here, sorry no. Also depends what you consider loads of money.
Disposable income for Thai's is simply not high enough. Also weak legal protection, i.e. liabilities are high and no government support. Monies from abroad, yes, one can get rich. Monies from Thai's is a tough call.
The guys you see here with fancy cars, bank loans based on inherited real estate mostly. Or on payments. Also Beemers and Mercs bear little depreciation, so no sweat. Most SME's simply do not pay taxes...you know, sabai sabai. In a proper business, transparency is a must. Most Thai business (SME level) do not even have proper bookkeeping. It's day by day, mostly.
Large business different call altogether. Either owned by well established Thai families, or foreign owned. Too complex to explain here.
Overall I think as interesting the issue of making money in Thailand is, its possible to broad to discuss. Fair enough for retirees this is a great place. For foreigners with career ambitions, it ain't.
You came "to wealth" in Thailand, but "from a money aspect, Thailand is a waste of time"? Contradiction? Which is it?
I do think one can make money here and a lot of it. Is it an honest day's wage for an honest day's work? Absolutely not. One makes money here from playing the angles, the way the rich Thais do. While not out and out dishonest, it's often shadowy. I know loads of Thai profs earning only 25,000/month, yet driving a brand new Merc S-class, and they're not all rich HiSo types. There is a gray economy here in all kinds of fields, including education. I know a guy who got 1 million B. grant from the Ministry of Education for creating a English Language instruction manual for The Thai automotive industry - a complete waste of money. There is tones of money like this available if you can get connected.
Unlike LBM, I'll never retire. But, more power to him and good luck to him.
Personally, I like working here. Working in LOS is much less stressful than anything I ever encountered in Canada, or the US which is why I choose to live and work here. I've had some people make disparaging remarks about my being a teacher in a third world country, impying that I couldn't make it in the real world. Well, the truth is that I did and I still can make it in the real world. It would be very easy to get a job in the States or Canada. But, why? - to put up with winter, and a rapidly rising cost of living and pay 35% or more tax and still have no job security? It's true that Thai bosses are assholes and can really [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) you off, sometimes. But, so are most bosses everywhere. And, unlike some other Farang, I'm at least lucky to have sufficient power, now that I don't take too much shit from anyone, anymore. I pay only 7% tax and only on a portion of my income. My apartment is paid for by my employer, I have a good medical package. Although I have to live in BKK, I can get away whenever I want.
Even though I'm an older geezer, I can still pull loads of birds and I don't care why they want to be with me. If I was at home in Canada, I wouldn't have the choice, but would only be stuck with fat, old, miserable bitches.
Old Thai Hand
04-06-07, 02:44
Fair enough for retirees this is a great place. For foreigners with career ambitions, it ain't.
I agree with this 100%. Someone trying to start up any kind of business here is in for a rough ride. Local jobs for foreigners, unless posted here internationally are with a few exceptions (such as you, perhaps) badly paid and have little real future.
If you're a young guy fresh out of university and looking for adventure and a bit of working experience, coming to Thailand, teaching English for 30,000/mo. and doing a bit of travelling is a great thing to do.
If you're 30 or 40-something and doing this, there's perhaps something seriously wrong with you, or you're just trying to escape.
If you've got your career behind you and are winding down, I think it's an ok place, if you can still make a decent wage and not work too hard.
Much of what you're written throughout this discussion has been food for thought and has contributed somewhat to a a rather long think I've been having on what I'm doing here and whether I should make a last kick at the can, somewhere else before I retire.
Coming to LOS in about three weeks.
Sadly, I find it necessary these days to augment my activities with the blue pill or it's cousins. Have been reading about a miraculous but, as yet, unofficial new drug called Pt-141 or Bremelanotide.
Does anybody know if it's available in Thailand? Especially in Chiang Mai as that will be my home base.
Would appreciate any special knowledge, gentlemen.
Thanks.
Traveler1234
04-23-07, 11:25
On another forum, flyertalk.com (PG rated), saw inquiry by OP with handle, Martian that read:
Thai to English website conversion
Does anyone know of a tool such as babelfish that can convert Thai webpages to English. I found one last year, but after 20 minutes of googling can't find it anymore. The one I am thinking of didn't actually convert the text, but allowed you to hover your mouse over the Thai script and get an English translation in a hovering box. Of course if anyone knows of anything else, I will be happy to hear about it.
http://flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=7625020&postcount=1
Is he planning a come back -- again?
For me anyway, Thailand affords the illusion that I'm still young, not merely because I can still get a 22 y.o. GF, (although that's certainly a big part of it), but in the way Thais view my relationship with her, and generally how I am treated by Thais. In Canada, I'm very much reminded of just how old I am. I feel ancient. When I was back in the West teaching, my students were stunned that I had a GF in Thailand, not much older than they were. Some were actually disgusted. (I don't know, maybe they were right). Here, my students take it in stride as something very normal because of the Asian tradition of age differences in relationships.
OTH, you hit the nail right on the head on why I want to make my escape to Thailand. In the US everyone is always telling me how old I am and to act my age. In Thailand for some reason (maybe it is the money but who cares) I am told how young looking I am. I feel like I can shed the years there. My 27 year old TGF will do anything for me and treats me much better than family in the states.
I figure I have another 15 to 20 really good sexually active years left in me. I know that staying in the states, there won't be much in the way of sex. So if the choice is Thailand with a young gf or the states with extremely limited options, well, there is no choice.
I am luckier than most in that I will have a really good pension, so having to work is not going to be a problem. Just sell the house in the states, pay the family off with the proceeds and then make the move.
Jungle Bluebird
04-24-07, 07:31
Escape? Most likely it will end up in tears.
As mentioned before, the idea to sell all and to move to Thailand, is rather naive I think. OTH works here. This means his mind is occupied, and he is in a position where he needs to give intellectually. This keeps him sharp (or so I would hope).
To think one can come over here and be forever happy without work is just crazy. For a western mind there is hardly anything to feed on. Once the blue sky, palm trees, big teeth smiles have worn off, life quality is well below western standards.
That bring us to the issue or work. You won't find anything as an employee (not in your age, sorry:-). OTH is again lucky. Or you open up shop. Forget that too, as the very thing you love about this country, being just sooo sabai, works now against you.
Will your 25 year old sweet heart keep you happy. Possible, yes. But tough. You will not be able to reminisce about the good old days as she most likely has no comprehension socially, politically and or cannot relate to any cultural fodder you have been brought up with. Well unless you like Britney Spears.
And last, this heat. After years in this country my idea of a comfortable place is inside, air-conditioned, or better even my car as I can bring down the temp. down to 18 degrees celsius.
But hey, each his own. My advise: yes retirement here is great! Big house, servants, great views mountains or beach, with a second home in Europe.
If the money is not there. Stay where you are and come over here 2x a year and enjoy.
JB
OTH, you hit the nail right on the head on why I want to make my escape to Thailand. In the US everyone is always telling me how old I am and to act my age. In Thailand for some reason (maybe it is the money but who cares) I am told how young looking I am. I feel like I can shed the years there. My 27 year old TGF will do anything for me and treats me much better than family in the states.
I figure I have another 15 to 20 really good sexually active years left in me. I know that staying in the states, there won't be much in the way of sex. So if the choice is Thailand with a young gf or the states with extremely limited options, well, there is no choice.
I am luckier than most in that I will have a really good pension, so having to work is not going to be a problem. Just sell the house in the states, pay the family off with the proceeds and then make the move.
Retired Army
04-24-07, 08:56
OTH, you hit the nail right on the head on why I want to make my escape to Thailand. In the US everyone is always telling me how old I am and to act my age. In Thailand for some reason (maybe it is the money but who cares) I am told how young looking I am. I feel like I can shed the years there. My 27 year old TGF will do anything for me and treats me much better than family in the states.
I figure I have another 15 to 20 really good sexually active years left in me. I know that staying in the states, there won't be much in the way of sex. So if the choice is Thailand with a young gf or the states with extremely limited options, well, there is no choice.
I am luckier than most in that I will have a really good pension, so having to work is not going to be a problem. Just sell the house in the states, pay the family off with the proceeds and then make the move.
Jungle Bluebird has it correct.
Thailand, to those who don't know it very well, is a fantasy land; but, reality "sucks."
I lived here for five years and for the first two or three loved it. I had a great job, plenty of money, frantastic apartment and still have a wonderfur TGF. But after a couple of years reality set in and I began seeing all the things wrong with Thailand. I hated going out of my air-conditioned apartment into the heat, I hated the traffic, I hated the touts on Sukhumvit and most of all I hated the sex tourists and girls that serviced tham around Nana. And I discovered that one can only drink so much beer and screw so many times until you get tired of that also.
After fours years I had had enough of "paradise" and opted out for a European assignment to a modern, civilized first world country. And I am glad that I did. I still visit Thailand for short periods because of a visa issue with my TGF and the EU. But I don't like it any more than I did when I left. There may not be as much sex here as Thailand, but after a certain age, sex becomes less and less important than other quality of life factors.
Think long and hard about the fantasy you seek and reality you will face. Sounds like you are about to make the biggest mistake of your life.
Old Thai Hand
04-24-07, 11:31
RA
You lucked out in your new life and I understand 100% how you feel, in a way that most on here wouldn't. I'm halfway there myself. But, I still prefer it here to the west. But, I'm still toying with the idea of leaving. The university is so concerned I might leave that they've done something quite unheard of vis-a-vis Farang teachers - arranged a substantial loan for me to purchase a condo in BKK with enough money left over for a downpayment on a house in Hua Hin, if I want. So, I think I'll be staying for awhile.
But, I can still see a time that I might finally hit the wall like you and go somewhere else.
On another forum, flyertalk.com (PG rated), saw inquiry by OP with handle, Martian that read:
Thai to English website conversion
Does anyone know of a tool such as babelfish that can convert Thai webpages to English. I found one last year, but after 20 minutes of googling can't find it anymore. The one I am thinking of didn't actually convert the text, but allowed you to hover your mouse over the Thai script and get an English translation in a hovering box. Of course if anyone knows of anything else, I will be happy to hear about it.
http://flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=7625020&postcount=1
Is he planning a come back -- again?Or maybe he wants to help his twin brother Opeabody, who is still looking for a translation so he can 'whisper this sweet nothing' into his girl's ear: "Honey, I gave you sex disease, yucky drip drip. Please take tablet so I can see you again". LOL
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