Carol, did you have to bring those gray Midwestern skies with you? It's the first morning in well over a week that it hasn't been clear and sunny. Oh well, enjoy your stay this time - and you forgot to put Asiatique on your list of to-dos.

Ah, yes! Asiatique! I must see what the hype is all about.

I left a sunny day in Chicago, but pouring rain in Narita. I guess it was the Japanese weather, not midwestern weather that I have brought along with me.

Care to help out with quiz night on Thursday Nov 1? My last night in Bangkok. Beer Vault (Four Points) first and then Pickled Liver. And then I'll have to finish packing and catch a flight early on 2nd.

Glad you arrived safely. Have a ball!

By the way, have you stayed at the Pan Pacific Serviced Apartments in Thonglor at Sukhumvit, soi 55? As of the other day, I have put it on my list. I'm keeping all of my options open when it comes to accommodations.

I have wanted to explore Thonglor area more. My Thai friend and I used to hang out there, some years ago, and before it built up like it supposedly has now.

By the way, my Thai friend will be moving to Issan in the months to come. Her very long-term boyfriend is building them a house from the ground up. I e-mailed her a couple of days ago to see how the house is coming along as he's also building a room for me. She said it's coming along nicely and she'll e-mail over photos of the progress. I requested an ocean view from my bedroom. They cracked up as of course there's no ocean. So, she called and told him my request and he said that he'll put up a poster of the ocean in my room. LOL!

They have been together for over 15 years, since back in their BKK university days. He's from Issan and works in his long-time family business which she will probably end up working for.
One of his siblings is an interior designer. So, this new life will be interesting. He'll keep his BKK house and also have the Issan one,too. Years ago, he said that he and I should go into business together. His family is very design geared.

Oh, as for BKK, the Column Serviced Apartment building e-mailed me the other day with an offer of 85,000 Baht for a month in a large 1-bedroom apartment. And they e-mailed again and said that I wouldn't need to pre-pay, but that I could just pay upon arrival. I hate to prepay anything.

Things get complicated when stays become 30 days or more. Then one has to deal with different rates, pre-paying the entire amount upfront to get the monthly rate, prepaying a deposit of a month's rent plus the actual month's rent, etc...etc...etc....Scream! It's been a real headache.

I've been dealing with a lot of buildings and the policies have been all over the place. One needs a fine-tooth comb to try to figure some of them out. And that also goes for the non-serviced apartments. I've become cross eyed reading it all.

Happy Travels!

Well, Carol, tomorrow is your day to see the procession practice. I was down on the river today and the notices were up that there would be a practice tomorrow (Thursday). Note that the express boats stop running at 11:00 am and don't start up again until after 5:00 pm.

I've been meaning to get back to Asiatique myself, since the last time I was there a lot of places still weren't open yet. Now that the rains seem to have stopped, I'll have to get around to it.

guen---we stayed at pan pacific last year for one night.. its ok, but nothing special..location is great and crepes and co is on ground floor... easy to airport from there.

Thanks. I'll keep it on the list.

Happy Travels!

Guenmai, I have not stayed at Pan Pacific. That location would be quite a ways out from soi 8-15, where I spend the bulk of my time. The BTS shuts down at midnight and I am often out later than that.

Michael, here comes the rain!! Maybe....?? I've been watching it from my balcony. I rushed to get back to Adelphi from Central Chid Lom area (today was my salon day with OD) thinking the rain was coming right away. Still waiting after an hour... I can see a sprinkle or two of rain on the windows now. Sky was very dark, but seems a bit lighter now, so maybe rain will not be quite so much of a down pour. BTW, I think our group will go down to the river to watch a practice on the 29th instead of tomorrow.

My move to an apartment with balcony was quick and easy, and it happened at 10:30 this morning. I'm on a higher floor, and I look in the direction of soi 15 and Asok BTS station. The balcony is really a good size, and it has a wrought iron table and 3 chairs for dining outside, should the rain go away!!!

This apartment is not as large as our usual executive one bedroom (and for a little bit less money than exec, of course) but I rather like the room arrangement. The bedroom/bathroom area is very private from the livingroom and kitchen (w/washing machine). I posted a few photos on FB if interested. I think I'll enjoy my stay here! My DH would like it except storage and closet space is much more limited than in an exec apt.

I bought my 25-ride BTS ticket today. It is an adult rabbit card. The cost was 575, which included the rides, the new card fee and VAT. I'm looking at my receipt(s) to see if I can figure out what the individual costs were, but difficult to figure out. This type of card is more expensive than the past stored value card, which I believe was 35 baht for the card, which I would leave for the maid when leaving BKK. This one is at least 100 baht extra. But it will be good if I can continue to use it for two years!! BTW the English text with the card rules is covered up by a "NEW ISSUE" sticker!

We'll see if the rain gets done quickly. If not, I'm in for the evening at 5:45. I can eat my dinner at Monsoon (appropriate name...haha) in the lobby if need be. They do have great tasting dishes so would be a good choice. If the rain stops and I can walk down to Sports Academy, I will eat Thai food with 'the girls' and then call it an early night.

Sleep will be very welcome tonight. I sleep well during a storm!! Lucky me!!

Rain! Carol did you bring the rain with you again?

Where is the recommeded place I get some baht at BKK when we arrive to pay for our driver? Where is this VASU(sp) place you and Ken always talk about?

Looking forward to seeing you soon!! Will Brad be there too?

Aloha!

Aloha Guenmai!!! Nice to see you again!

Thanks, HT. I send greetings to Mrs. HT.

Happy Travels!

Vasu is on Sukhumvit, at the corner of soi 7/1. (the new Pickled Liver is at the very end of soi 7/1) Exchange rate is just over 30.0 right now, not great. Vasu will have the best rate though.

HT there are exchanges at the airport for getting enough to get you into the city, and then you can make your way to Vasu. Or else try a Super Rich location. Also very good rates. Maybe even better than Vasu??

You arrive on 30th? Is that right? 31st is Halloween, and lots of parties all around Sukhumvit, and people in costumes. Should be good people watching!

Bangkok is sunny and beautiful this morning. Coffee on my balcony at 6:30 delightful!!!

Shopping day with dear friend, Khun Nok (teacher). She is on vacation during October and is not travelling during this time off from school, so we can have a good day!!

Glad you're safely back in Bangkok. Wish I was there! It's cold and rainy in Seattle.

It was nice running into Pook at Central Chitlom store this afternoon. Khun Nok and I went there to see the display of flowers. WOW WOW WOW is all I can say. The celebration decorations are mind-blowing. They will only be on display until the 28th, I think, so those of you coming into the city after that will have missed out on something amazing!

Shopping was at Platinum Fashion Mall (more jewelry from Coco Banana) and a look around Central store. Not many packages today. That's OK. I don't need to TRY to fill my suitcases! lol

Lunch was a selection of Thai food dishes from the food court on the 6th floor. All delicious.

Tonight is quiz night on soi 15, so I am heading there for a get together with Nok, Ya, and other friends. I don't know that we will try to form a team and compete... probably NOT.

DS arrives from home tonight and I will try to stay awake for his arrival.... but my eyes REALLY want to close...

Coffee... I need coffee!!!

It has been a gorgeous sunny day in Bangkok. I cannot complain about the weather.

Forgot to mention today's exchange rate at VASU... 30.68. One of the street walk-ups was posting 30.26, so VASU, as usual, had a better rate.

Hi Carol - sounds like you are really slumming it this time, riding in the back of the plane, etc. Enjoy your stay!

I survived, Craig. Would have preferred that my upgrade ORD to NRT had cleared... alas, it did not.

Today I found BLING for my new smart phone. MBK is certainly the place to find it. I bought some bling for folks back home as well. Amazing what you can find here in Bangkok!!!

Tonight I may have drinks at the top of the Sofitel with another fodorite who is here in the city. We'll see if it happens.

Lunch was Korean chicken and BBQ chicken at Paragon food court. Yum!

Big party at Pickled Liver tonight! Should be a good time.

Maeng has her cooking school on soi 11, at the Suk 11 Hostel. I have heard that she is trying to get away from the past, so I think I will wait until she is ready to get in touch with me. If you want a really good Thai cooking lesson, I'm sure Maeng gives a very traditional class. I have not taken it, but I do not hesitate in suggesting that others here, who have not met Maeng in the past or have not seen her more than once or twice, she would enjoy giving you a cooking lesson. I just wanted to give this update because some had asked about Maeng.

Another sunny day in Bangkok, but we may get rain sometime tonight.

good to hear about maeng

Bob, I hope this works out for her. Saw two more of her good friends tonight at the party at Pickled Liver. They have not heard from her either.

Tomorrow we are off to Ban Bueng, to the weekend house. The rest of the gang is staying for a few days, but I'm heading back to Bangkok tomorrow night. Things to do on Sunday!

Also saw Dr Jack (who had massive life-threatening heart attack not quite a year ago) and he is recovering!! Great news! I know that some of you have met him. A very special friend indeed.

Warm greetings Carol and many thanks as always for your continued support of the Thai economy. (Now, if only I can lure you into spending more time - and funds - in our fine home of Singapore...)

Shame about you not getting that UA upgrade to biz, ORD-NRT. If any consolation, I have distinct - and actually, rather fond - memories of not getting a UA systemwide upgrade (BKK-NRT) back in May, 2005, back in the day when I was a proud UA 1K. (It's pretty much all Singapore Airlines for my business travel these days.) Turned out, one of my UA 'cattle class' seatmates that day was a mountaineering companion, last seen in the early 1990s, in the Yak and Yeti hotel lobby, in beloved Kathmandu, Nepal. A renewed and maintained friendship. (But will still take flying in front of the curtains -- and should you ever decide to consistently fly SQ up front, most honoured to give thoughts.)

Suspect you have your BKK routine, but will still give the promo to some fine friends at Chon Thai, fine dining at that sublime The Siam resort.

Closer to your current BKK home, will give more promos to my present Bangkok business travel property, the Four Seasons (do experience that fine lobby and staff) and my former work place, the St. Regis (sunset drinks at the Terrace Bar).

Have fun in the Land of Smiles; I'm presently scheduled to return to BKK for work in late November -- just in time for Loy Krathong, by design; love celebrating that holiday, riverside.

And, rumour has it, you're later flying BKK-FRA first on a TG A380! If so, congrats. I've had the supreme honour of flying some of SQ's A380s up front on SIN-HKG & SIN-NRT sectors; serene rides, to be sure.

(Carol, I'm convinced our paths once briefly crossed at the UA lounge at NRT. Should your future leisure travel ever include my home port of Singapore, pleased to guest/assist at SQ's fine SilverKris Lounges at Changi. Unless I'm away on a longer trans-pac business trip, Changi is a weekly locale for me.)

Signing off with a most appreciative nod to SilkAir business class service ex-SIN ~ 48-hours back. (More on that, later.)

Warm weekend wishes to you and all,

macintosh (robert)


... Singapore Airlines, You're a Great Way to Fly ...

We may very well have crossed paths at the United lounge at NRT at some point. I'm through there quite a bit, it seems. And YES my husband and I have frequent flyer tickets on Thai A380 in first class, BKK-FRA, followed by UA first class FRA-ORD. No one was as surprised as I was when THAT particular route came available in first class. It took about 5 seconds to say "Book it!"

I've just returned from a run to Central World. I explored areas I had really not 'discovered' before, including the enormous food areas on the upper couple of floors!!! If you can't find something that looks good to eat here, it doesn't exist. There is absolutely EVERYTHING you might want. I could not believe how quiet the area was, and it is a Saturday at noon!! IMO this offers more selection than even Paragon! It just hasn't been discovered by that many tourists yet. Do Thais not like to frequent this mall, after the problems of two years ago?? Just wondering.... I spoke to an ex-pat friend who says he has stayed away since the political problems of two (or was it three) years ago.

Just relaxing until our group leaves for Ban Bueng. I hope friend Lars is ready to make lots of pizza!

finally did a bit of shopping today, mostly at the shanghai fabric center at so. bund. fab buys.. material for bkk projects, belt, silk embroidered custom vest being made for K, and several pieces of fabric for pat, linda and karen..

is an MBK place

AskOsena: We are finally going to cross paths. DH and I will be in BKK for Loy Krathong, also, and earlier the rhkkmks will be there. We are all staying at the Marriott Sukhumvit Park on Soi 24 (behind Emporium). Tomorrow we leave for the only place in the world to which we keep returning~~SQ61/SQ62. We would love to share our SIN thoughts with you ~~ all complimentary and positive as it has been on our other SQ flights!!!!! We will be in CM from the 13-21 and back in BKK until Dec. 4. Give us a call at the MSP.

Sandra (Melville)

McBeanie: How is the Marriott Park Sukhumvit? I just e-mailed them day before yesterday and was told to check the online website for prices, etc, although I had some questions that the website couldn't answer.

I have a lot of places on my list for a potential one-month stay. I just got off of an e-mail with an owner of a privately owned apartment in a nearby area of Sukhumvit.

Happy Travels!

Guen: This is the 1st time we have been there, but Bob recommended it, and he and Karen will be there, too. I do know that it is only 3 yrs. old and has a tuk-tuk to the BTS. We also liked that it is right by the Emporium and lots of restaurants that we have been meaning to try. People who have been there say it is spacious, and looks just like the website pix. I will ask them about a monthly rate and get that info to you. I'll be posting on Fodor's after we have been there. Good to hear from you again!

Sandra

The Marriott is not "right by" the Emporium. It is a very long walk down the soi, past Seafood Market. It is actually closer to the Davis hotel and K Village. K Village has a lot of restaurants, and there are a number of them around the Davis as well.

MBKK is right. Friends who have stayed there say the location can be a pain if the tuk-tuks are not availible.

McBeanie: Thanks. It was supposedly to open in 2009, the last time I was in BKK. Although I stay at Emporium Suites, I didn't walk down Soi 24 to take a look. I kind of figured that it would be pretty far down the soi and closer to The Davis. I was curious about it as it is at least in my regular neighborhood. However, I just got an e-mail from another private apartment owner and I will probably either end up in a non-serviced apartment or back at Emporium Suites.

Happy Travels!

Whew, I'm catching up after two very busy days! Yesterday I left off at my visit to Central World and the FANTASTIC food courts and beautiful restaurants of all kinds. I really do think it is better than Paragon, if you can believe that.

At 2pm our group got in a rental van and went to Ban Bueng (by Chon Buri). I stayed only until 8:30pm and then had a driver take me back into Bankgok (1500 baht). We ate (thank you Lars!) great food, had a nice double magnum of a very tasty California wine (Prisoner), plus cold beer. It was a very lovely evening! I was tired and slept in the car back to Bangkok (about 1 hour 15 minutes). My head hit the pillow as soon as I closed the door to my soi 8 apartment!!! No time for internet... just SLEEP!

Khun Nok and I were planning to meet this morning at 10:30 to go to some places she wanted me to see. At 8:30 my phone rings, and Khun Nok is in the lobby!!! She had sent me a text, which I did not see, and posted on FB, which I did not read, because I was so tired.

I felt bad making Khun Nok wait, but I quickly took shower and had breakfast, and then we were off.

We took the BGS to Udomsuk stop (on the way past On Nut). I now know what happens when you use a Rabbit card for a trip past On Nut. On another thread, michealbkk was telling about the extra cost to ride past On nut. When I touched my Rabbit card to the machine at Udomsuk, it did not open the gate. It said PLEASE SEE AGENT. I had to pay an extra 15 baht at the ticket window. So, that's how it works!! I had wondered how they would manage that extra fee with a 25-ride pass card.

From the Udomsuk BTS stop, we took a taxi for the 60 baht ride to the SuanLuang Rama 9 Gardens. This a just one of the King Rama 9 gardens. I can see that during December the flowers will be in bloom and it will be very beautiful indeed. The park is very very large. We started out walking, but it was very hot today (the hottest day yet) and the black asphalt pathway was very hot on the feet. After we had walked for some distance, we waited for the tram to pick us up for a tour of the park, but it did not come. The driver was having lunch! We decided to leave and get a taxi for our next stop. When I go back to the Suanluang Rama 9 Gardens, I will start out on the tram!!!

It was another 60 baht taxi ride to get to our next stop, the Paradise Mall. This mall is in Bang Na. Khun Nok had not been before, and I had never been there, so we did not know what to expect. It was a nice mall, and we had ice cream sundaes at Swenson's, but did not buy anything there. This mall has a Home Pro as its big box store. The rest are small shops and boutiques. I did not recognize very many names of the shops, but they had a very nice area for beauty products. There was a huge fresh market area in the basement level. This area was very busy, as it was approaching lunch time.
How do I describe Paradise Mall... maybe it is somewhat like the new Gateway Ekkamai..? Not like MBK. Not like Platinum. Not very crowded at all.

We walked around the mall, having a look, and then took a 200 baht taxi ride from there to The Promenade/Fashion Island. Now THIS was a NICE mall. It is not a Paragon. It has a Home Pro, Big C, and Robinsons as big box stores. The rest are smaller shops with some familiar names. I looked at clothing for a little girl who will turn 1 year old when I get home from BKK this trip. I did not buy anything though.

We had a nice lunch in the international food court at Fashion Island, then walked around a bit more, and then went next door (a hallway connects the two malls) to Promenade to see the fountains. Not like the fountains at Bellagio.... but still nice. A bit like the fountains at the mall in Pattaya that is connected to Marriott... but bigger. How do I describe Fashion Island and Promenade? A bit like the new mall in Pattaya (it has a big Central store). Again, it is not like MBK or Platinum or Paragon. I really enjoyed having a look though.

We caught a van coming into the city (20 baht each???) that dropped us off at Victory Monument. I got on the BTS to Nana to relax and do laundry so I have clothes to wear!!

It has been a really nice day. But now I'm resting. I may go down to Monsoon to have some dinner in a while, after my washing is done and hung to dry. Nice to have my comfy sofa to relax on!!!

The group from yesterday stayed at Ban Bueng last night, and then drove into Pattaya today for a pool tournament, and to stay for a couple of days. I will see them again on Tuesday.

have fun... heading to bkk on Tuesday

you want to shop, come to shanghai... amazing at all price levels...

we found marriott sukhumvit to be very convenient and had no trouble using the tuk tuks

Good Morning from Texas:

We are leaving on that SIN 777 in a short while ~~ to Moscow, SIN and BKK. We are staying at the MSP, and hope the tuk-tuks are readily available. I do NOT walk very far ~~ but if all else fails, there are always taxis!!!!! Looking forward to all the festivities in BKK before leaving for HK, CM and back to BKK for Loy Kratong. What an exciting trip we have planned. The most exciting, however, will be reconnecting with all our friends, and meeting new ones.

Safe travels everyone ~~ wherever you are!

Sandra

Missed you at the Sports Academy!

Rayong, depending on weather and scheduling, I may get there tonight. Khun Nok and I will head to the river for today's royal barge practice, and then head down to Asiatique. We'll probably be done by 8ish. If I'm thirsty for a cold one, I'll head to S.A. Have not been there for a while.

Carol, having a health night, and spa package tonight. I got beat bad at the SA. Only won 1 game of 5. Glad I was not playing for money. Did much better the night before.

Rayong, I did stop by tonight for one cold beer and to chat with Tree and the others.

Another busy day today. I had the morning to myself so got to have a later breakfast and then relax until Nok came to get me at 2:00. We took a taxi to Supatra restaurant, where we had a table for a late lunch (it took nearly an hour to get there in the traffic). This is really a terrific place to view the barges. They have inside dining and outside dining on the terrace. We had a table on the terrace. It had rained an hour or so before the practice, so tables were all placed under a roof to keep us dry... but it did not rain again. The practice lasted almost 30 minutes. Nok said she counted 52 barges. Most were of the more plain variety, but the oarsmen had matching uniforms of various colors, one color per barge. I really enjoyed seeing this practice, even though I did not see the most fancy of barges. There were a few dragon boats in the parade today. I assume there will be a lot more for the dress rehearsal and the 'real' thing.

We planned to take an express boat to Asiatique, but found out that the boats would not be up and running until 6:30, due to the practice shutting down river traffic!! It was only 4:30 at the time, so we hopped in a taxi. The ride took a long time, in traffic. It took a while to find a taxi that would take us there!! We asked several!

I have to say that I was impressed with Asiatique. Most of the stalls are now occupied with vendors. The array of restaurants is amazing! Some look quite fancy. There is a large 'beer garden' at the riverside, which looked inviting. I will definitely go back to Asiatique and spend more time. I did not buy anything, and we did not eat there since we had eaten at Supatra. You can find all kinds of food options here. The shops contain a lot of the usual stuff, but if you look, there some unusual items as well... musical t-shirts that you have to see to believe. They have pictures on the front that react (move, light up) to the sound of music. I had never seen this before!

After Asiatique, Nok was stopping at Saladaeng and I headed back to Nana about 8pm. The shuttle boat ride to the pier was pleasant. The ride is almost as long as to the Marriott (anantara) as the Asiatique location is almost, but not quite, across from the Marriott. We passed Chatrium and the Ramada riverside. The riverside hotels all look lovely, lit up at night. I just wish they were not so inconvenient for getting to and from Sukhumvit!!

I went to Sports Academy for one cold Tiger beer before heading to my soi 8 apartment.

Time to relax, have a snack, and hit the sack.

It was another lovely day in Bangkok. Tomorrow will be a lot quieter! Probably a good idea... I need to have time to myself.

Hi Simpson510: I am simply floored by your comfort and knowledge of Bangkok. When I hear you say at the GTG that you would be on your 29th trip soon, I was stunned. Now even more so, to learn how comfortable you are, and what energy you have.

It's hard for me to decipher all the short hand you old BKK hands use when describing places, and addresses, but it sure is fun to pick up on your enthusiasm.

Hope the trip continues to be wonderful!

We will be in BKK starting on Nov. 3 thru 11th. We want to visit Asiatique- when will the river traffic resume their normal schedule- so that we don't have to wait until 6:30 to get the boat to Asiatique.

Hi taconic. I had to laugh yesterday when I had to tell my Thai friend Nok how to use the BTS (sky train)!! I told her that I am HER tour guide in Bangkok (her home)... hahaha She is very anxious to show me many places. Her English is so-so and I often say I don't understand... but we still have a great time together. Today she has work. She is a teacher, and her students will return to class on November 5th so she has to prepare. I will be on my own in Bangkok (I'm FINE with that!!) so I can decide where I want to go, and jump on the BTS or take a taxi. So easy! Bangkok is easy, very easy!

Bill, the only reason the boat was delayed was due to the practice for the barge parade. The sign at Asiatique says that their shuttles go from Taksin (Sathorn Pier) starting at 4pm... but I would not go there before 5:30-6:00. Pook is right that it is better at dusk and into the evening. It can get a bit hot wandering around those narrow hallways of the market. I like the open air spaces for sitting, people watching, or the beer garden, enjoying a cold one. The busiest days (avoid if you can) are Friday/Saturday/Sunday, according to the man at the boat dock at Asiatique. Shop owners open up at their own convenience, so even at 7:30 we were seeing shops just opening up, and Asiatique itself had been OPEN since 5pm.

The rest of the group returns from Pattaya today, and if I'm not mistaken, some other fodorites are arriving here today, at various hours and from various places. Looking forward to meeting up at some point. There is a GTG on Nov 1, but I think there might be some shopping before that. We'll see...

Carol

Unless they changed recently, the boats to Asiatique don't start until 5pm, and most of the shops aren't open until then. Also, since the boats only go from Sathorn Pier to Asiatique, which is all downriver from where the barges are, the shuttles are probably not affected by the shutdown.

5:00 for a start up time makes more sense, but I'm sure the sign at Asiatique said 4:00... maybe restaurant workers are arriving by that time??

The sign also said that boats would come and go every 10 minutes, and I know we waited at least 15, so they are not as prompt as they claim. The shuttle we took from Asiatique to Sathorn had arrived FULL to the brim, so it would have taken a bit of time to load at Sathorn, and then time to unload at Asiatique. Load factors have something to do with the timing as well. Seems a lot of folks were arriving around 7pm for dinner and shopping.

Besides the Asiatique shuttle, I noted that the Marriott (Anantara) had its own shuttle, as did the Shangri-La. I'm assuming the other river hotels will also provide free transport to the night bazaar.

BillT... Joe Louis and Calypso Cabaret are now located here at Asiatique. I saw the signs for their shows!

Carol: Glad that you're still having a ball.

Yesterday I bought a ticket to BK, on Singapore Air, for the beginning of next year. I wanted to wait longer before booking, but found a great 165 square meter, one-bedroom apartment (apartment 91 square meters, private terrace 76 square meters and for $75.00 a night. So, I jumped on it, as the availability chart was filling up.

I contacted the owner and was approved and have already paid for it. Then this morning, the owner of another apartment, that I had enquired about, e-mailed me and I've been approved for that one. So, I've paid for it,too. It's near Asoke BTS. The other one is over in Silom with a view of Lumpini Park.

I checked my e-mail a few minutes ago and E.S. had contacted me back with an answer to a question that I had asked some days ago. I had asked to see a copy of their rental contract as at first I thought I'd stay there for 30 days as they offered me a good monthly deal. I just wasn't thrilled with being expected to put down two months in advance and sign a contract.

I just e-mailed them to let them know that it's too late now, for a month stay, as I've already booked accommodations for most of my stay. But, I told them to book me in there for my last 7 days and have requested my usual 80 square meter studio, which is the same size as the 2-bedroom that I'm renting near Asoke.

So, I'm all set. I just have to see how things go in the months to come. I'll buy some travel insurance this weekend, just in case. Life is just not as predictable as it used to be.

Keep having fun!

Happy Travels!

Wow, sounds like you got some great offers on apartments, Guenmai. I would probably look most seriously at the one near Asoke, as that is a really good location. Both BTS and MRT run through Asok/Sukhumvit intersection. So what day in January are you arriving in BKK? I'm here until the 7th, leaving that night at almost midnight.

It's raining right now. I heard the thunder while in MBK and decided to scurry back to my apartment. Glad I did. It came down pretty hard right after I got back here. It won't last long though.

I've been to On Nut to Tesco Lotus, where I got some cute clothes for a little girl who will be one year old right after I get back home. I also got her a really cute pair of shoes at MBK. Besides Tesco and MBK, I also made stops at Terminal 21 and Gateway Ekkamai... no purchases at either one. I'm looking for a SPECIFIC item right now, and I'm not finding it. I hate when that happens!!

We may go take in the new James Bond movie at one of the gold class theaters tonight, or later on this afternoon. Right now everyone is kind of staying put until the rain quits or slows down.

Carol

Carol,
We can finally say we are back in Bangkok too! Watching that same storm which looks like it has subsided for now. Firmly ensconced in the ROS and getting unpacked and ready to get out into the Bangkok scene. We will see you on the 1st if not sooner.

Aloha!

Glad you made it HT. Say hi to Linda for me. Brad and I and a couple of friends are planning to go see the new James Bond movie tonight, at one of the gold class theaters (probably at Paragon mall).

I'll definitely see you on the 1st, for cocktails at the Marriott Mayfair. Do you know what time? I'm thinking by about 3pm?

Tomorrow morning I'm going shopping with a couple of my Thai friends. I think the evening will be spent around Sukhumvit with a lot of people watching as it is Halloween, and that is a big deal here in Bangkok. Lots of costumes, I'm sure.

Enjoy Bangkok!! If you can, head down the river to the Asiatique Night Bazaar. I think you would enjoy it. I don't know if the ROS has a free shuttle to take you there or not. Some riverside hotels now have shuttles there. If not, take your free shuttle to Saphan Taksin (Sathorn Pier) and catch the free Asiatique shuttle from there. The place opens at 5, but it 'gets going' closer to 7. The Calypso Cabaret is there, as well as loads of restaurants and a beer garden and shops and shops and shops.

Rain, rain, rain! Bob , Peter, Carol etc bringing us a bit of "Sandy" from the US! Before you guys came we had sunshine!

I didn't come from anywhere near the east coast, so you can't say I brought a bit of Sandy. Bob and Karen on the other hand are from there. THEY did it!! lol

Bob is the rainman in more ways than one.....

Looking at the tomorrows forecast and looks like more of the same.....luckily it doesn't rain in the bar

Carol the cocktail gtg starts at 4.....see you there!

Aloha!

yes, 4PM, but not marriott mayfair, but marriott sukhumvit park on soi 24.

Anantara upgraded us again...yea..

delicious dinner at harmonique again tonight..

"simpsonc510 on Oct 30, 12 at 1:48am
Wow, sounds like you got some great offers on apartments, Guenmai. I would probably look most seriously at the one near Asoke, as that is a really good location. Both BTS and MRT run through Asok/Sukhumvit intersection."

Both apartments are a really good location as the 165 square meter one is 100 meters from Saladaeng BTS. One reason I chose to stay in that area is that I can easily get to Cotton House, to have my clothes made, from there. I hate having to go all the way across town, from Prom Phong BTS to Oriental Place Shopping Center, and dragging very heavy bags of fabric. I buy my fabric here in L.A., in the garment district, and then take it to the ladies at Cotton House to make my clothes.

At least being right at the Saladaeng BTS station, I can jump on the sky train and then go to Saphan Taksin and then catch the boat up river and get off at Tha SiPraya (sp?) which puts me a block away from Oriental Place. It will also be easier to get back and forth to my fittings, by staying at Saladaeng BTS.

Then by the time I have transferred over the the Asoke apartment, I'll be finished with the clothing thing, and that part of town, and can focus on doing things in Sukhumvit for the last two weeks, before heading to Singapore and spending some time there.

I'm looking at apartments there, but they are far and few and very expensive. I might just check back into the YMCA International House at 1 Orchard Road. I love the place and have stayed there since the 1990s and have watched it really transform itself from an ugly ducking into a swan. Of course I'd prefer to stay at the former Raffles Plaza Hotel, but I don't want to dish out that kind of dough right now. Why can't I ever remember the changed name of the former Raffles Plaza? And I've stayed there twice, I think, since the name change some years ago.

Happy Travels!

Ah, it just hit me that the Raffles Plaza Hotel is the Fairmont Hotel. I don't know why I can't ever remember the name change. Sometimes, I call it the Fullerton, which is another hotel. I've stayed at the Fullerton, the Fairmont, and the Raffles Plaza. They're all starting to sound the same. LOL!

Happy Travels!

I wish we had an edit button as I typed above, "Tha SiPraya" and meant to type, Tha Oriental" as Tha Si Praya is the one that I get off at to go to the mall next to the RO Sheraton, not to Cotton House. Now, let me get out of bed, get dressed, and drive to work (although I'm recently retired). LOL!

Happy Travels!

Guenmai: Retired???? Really??? Good for you!!
Still curious to know if you'll be in BKK before I leave on 7th.

Peter, Bob, see you all tomorrow at 4. I think Brad will also be there. Marriott Sukhumvit Park, soi 24! Got it.

Today I'm shopping with Thai friends, and then I think we will see the new James Bond movie (did not make it there last night).

Tonight is Halloween. It'll be a fun time, I'm sure. Lots of colorful costumes... good people watching!

The 7th of what? Are you talking January? If so, I won't have arrived until about a week later and I don't leave until around the second week in February.

Happy Travels!

Carol: As for retired. Yes, retired and in my mid fifties. I had just beyond had it and walked away from it all. But, I still work, but elsewhere. I'm busier than ever with my revolving door work schedule. But, I'm so "work" stress free now.

Happy Travels!

Carol, Bob, Karen, and all the others, if "tomorrow" is November 1 there, then have a drink for me. It's my birthday! (All Saints Day, LOL!)

We looked up the YMCA at 1 Orchard Rd but it says its in Singapore. The Marritt looks nice. Reasonable rate. Thanks!!

Happy birthday, Nov 1, taconic. Yes, it is "tomorrow" for us. We are now 9:45am Halloween day, and it's rainy here. Hoping it clears up before I head out for shopping, a movie, and then HALLOWEEN excitement.

Guenmai, I leave Bangkok on January 7. Sorry we will not cross paths here!!

Onetwothree... I saw your thread. You are travelling to Thailand during a lovely time of the year. I will be here also, Dec 18-Jan 7. My family spends Christmas/New Year holidays here very year, from Illinois!

Wow. You will be there a little longer than us. Our friends sent us about 10 links over an email. I'm not too impressed by the links as of right now, as some pages are 'not found.' Took a look at your hotel, the websites seem like the fonts are much smaller or in a different type than US websites. It seems that will take some getting used to. What is your favorite thing about Bangkok? What draws you there? There were two previous times we planned on going, but those plans fell apart. This time, we have to do it, no chickening out. Going to the library to get some Fodors books (to read and take a break from the computer). We depart Bangkok on New Years Eve, in order to get home and recover from any jet lag before returning to work.

"onetwothreefourfive on Oct 30, 12 at 7:10pm
We looked up the YMCA at 1 Orchard Rd but it says its in Singapore. The Marritt looks nice. Reasonable rate. Thanks!!"

Yes, it's in Singapore, where I'm headed after Bangkok. I fly on Singapore Air.

Happy Travels!

Guess who I saw today.... Maeng!! I was at Nana BTS station, going towards Chitlom to go shopping at Platinum Fashion Mall. Maeng was also at the station. She was just leaving the area, on her way to work at Suk 11. Her cooking school seems to be doing well. After teaching classes, she then runs the Suk 11 restaurant in the evening, until it closes. I was very happy to see her and to see with my own eyes that she is OK. I did not ask her about the events of the recent past. That's for another time, another conversation.

Well, I took two Thai 'girlfriends' (from Sports Academy)shopping at Platinum Fashion Mall today (we only shopped the smaller building, with all the purses and shoes) and did not go into the bigger mall... so no Coco Banana today. Can you imagine buying 4 'party dresses' for 1000 baht!!?? Yes! Cute ones. Not farang sizes so not for me. Pretty tee tops for less than 100 baht each if you buy 3 of them! Bags, shoes, skirts, tops, dresses... it was really a very fun afternoon.

I'm going to let the guys go bowling and then take in their movie and I'll catch up with them later on this evening. Right now I'm relaxing. I'm going to just stay put in my apt for a while, with my computer and the news on TV.

I'll need energy for tonight!! (no, I'm not in costume)

Halloween in Bangkok (on soi 4) is an experience!! We had a great time. Some of the guys in our group were in costume. The people watching is amazing! It always is, but last night was even MORE so. I had dinner at Monsoon before catching up with everyone. Lots of laughs, a few cold beers, even a couple of shots of tequila... I'm up this morning and feeling fine. I have to pack today because I'm heading home tomorrow morning.

This afternoon is the GTG on soi 24 with the rhk's, the Ht's and the Mcbeanie's. I'm not sure who else will be there. I'm looking forward to seeing everybody and catching up on all the latest travel news and stories.

The evening will start at the Beer Vault for quiz night, followed by the Pickled Liver quiz night. There will maybe be a few more cold beers and I'll bet there's Thai food and snacks involved also!

Last minute shopping this morning? Probably. I don't think my two suitcases are full yet.

I checked in on line this morning, with United, for the flights tomorrow. I'm on the waiting list for upgrades.... fingers crossed!!! But doubting my success.....

Carol

Safe trip home.

Happy Travels!

The GTG at Marriott Executive Apartments on soi 24 was nice. Lots of travel talk along with laughs and the usual. This is a nice apartment hotel building, but would not work for me due to the location. Too inconvenient to 'lower' Sukhumvit where I spend my time! Still, a lovely choice. The macbeanies are very happy with it, and that is what counts.

Quiz night at the Beer Vault ended in a #1 winning score! Yeah!!! Quiz at the Pickled Liver ended in a LAST place... that was a TOUGH quiz. Still a fun time. Saw Dr Jack one last time before heading back home.

It's 4:30AM in Bangkok and I am packed and ready to head to the airport in about 15 minutes. Still hoping for those upgrades, but we'll see. It looks pretty good for BKK-NRT so I should enjoy the SLEEP for at least 4-5 hours. Not looking so good for the long haul. I'll report in from NRT.

Carol

Hello from Tokyo. Getting up at 4:00am is NOT my idea of fun, but we do what we have to do to get to/from Bangkok!!

Upgrade cleared from BKK to Tokyo, but not looking good for the long haul. I have a good book to read, so it will be OK. I also have a slew of free drink chits (which I will share with others in the back of the bus with me!!!).

Work work work to do at home before leaving again in a few days for Tulsa OK and then Europe on Thanksgiving day!

So our friends from Germany posted on facebook they had to pay 1400 baht to check in BKK today. (they were there for a week) I'm reading all I can in fodors and fb to see how to manage our trip. Thank you for posting your trip. It is fun to read.

Carol: So, by now, who knows where you might be, I guess in flight somewhere. As for getting up at 4AM, well I wouldn't be a happy camper on that one either. A lot of times I don't even get to bed until 4AM, being the night owl that I am. My idea of an early-morning wake up is 10AM or later. LOL!

Happy Travels!

Onetwothree... I don't understand what you are saying about your German friends. Did they have to pay to enter the country? That seems a bit strange.

Guenmai, I'm now home. I got into Chicago about 3:45 and was home-sweet-home by about 8:40. I managed to stay awake for the drive! BTW, when we leave Bangkok in January, we are leaving via Frankfurt (Thai A380 first class) and that flight leaves at almost midnight! I like THAT time much better than getting up at 4am.

Ugh - 4 am is no good but glad you have arrived home intact once again...

we went over the asiatique for dinner tonight... the place is quite something... we had a res at baan khanitha and the food was good. slightly disorganized because they only opened 9 days ago.

tons of nice looking restaurants and lots of shops... K said it was hot off the main drag, where P & I sat and waited.

a very nice addition to bkk. tons of young thais wandering around and tourists as well.

They wrote on facebook that they had to pay to check in when leaving BKK airport.

There's an extra charge for Germans to check-in on low cost airlines at BKK.

Is there a Baan Khanitha @Asiatique now? I liked Asiatique too. I don't know if it's on my Must go everytime I am in BKK but it is nice to do a night.

Onetwothree... that must mean that they either over-stayed their tourist visa and had to pay a per-day overstay fine before exiting, or their departure tax was not included in their plane tickets. You used to have to go to a separate window and pay departure tax at the airport. I cannot recall exactly how much it was... but that's what it sounds like to me. My tickets have included that tax since a number of years ago. I was concerned about my 'free' frequent flier tickets having that tax included. I was never asked to pay before I could leave the country, so it must have been included in the fees one has to pay for a 'free' ticket (NOTHING is ever FREE...)

Carol:Glad you made it home safely. Happy Travels!

yes a brand new BK at asiatique---just on the right when you get off the boat... quite large and well signed.

but also many other interesting looking places--all cuisines.

Aha. THey are from Germany. I'll send an email and ask what the situation was.

Wow... slept nine hours! Had to get up and decide which clock was right...!! We went back to standard time last night/this morning. I'm busy changing the microwave and coffee maker clocks as well as some wall clocks that are not 'automatic' adjustments.

got my fingers and toes crossed...

our JW room is just two away from last year's room

Carol: So, I've been looking at places for my last 7 nights in BKK, and am thinking of booking the Legacy Suites. I've read many pages of reviews and most are quite positive.

They Legacy Suites just contacted me. The place looks nice and it's in Sukhumvit, soi 39, I think it is. The special price is right and it's right between Asoke and Prom Phong BTS. At first I thought that I would just leave those last 7 days open and book something while already in BKK, but now maybe I should pre-book to get a place at a great rate. I can always cancel it, if I have to as I won't be prepaying it.

Happy Travels!

Correction: "The" not "They". We really need an edit button.

Happy Travels!

Legacy looks nice. It is managed by the same group that manages 'my' Adelphi Suites. If Legacy were just a tad bit closer to soi 11, soi 15, soi 8, etc. I might give it a try.

On their website they have listed The Eugenia. I guess that it's in their group,too. Remember, I did a report on the Eugenia years ago. That was the place with the dead animals,however stuffed.

Happy Travels!

I remember that!!!! Guenmai, I'm so glad you are heading back to Bangkok. I know it has been a while for you. I'm just sorry we won't be there at the same time.... ah, well....

Let's hope I get there. It's not a done deal until I'm on the plane ready to take off. LOL! I was last in BKK in Nov 2009. But, I was in Paris during the years that I wasn't in BKK. It's closer and easier to get to Paris. And since for the last few years I could only be away for a week, it was easier to vacation in Paris although my mind was in BKK.

Happy Travels!