Yearend Reviews
Dec 31, 2019
2019: A Year in Review
Countries: Thailand, Vietnam and Myanmar
Backgrounder: Asking my Universe
Late in 2018, after struggling the entire year for lodging, money and the solitude, I finally asked my benevolent universe for 3 things:
- home - since I had been traveling for 8 years already, I was too tired from packing, moving, unpacking and packing-up again. I wanted to settle down but there was no place for me to do that - I had been homeless all those years. Where do I go?
- money - for most of my 8 years, I never had enough money but at least, I had about 1 month to 2 months lead time before money would run out. But 2018 was a horribly tight leash on money. Often, I would land in a country with only $100 and I would have to wing my survival for the remaining days of my visa. At one time in Bangkok, I was down to my last B80 with no prospect of money on the horizon. F%$#k, that was 2 meals away from starving in a foreign country that speaks a different language, worships a different God, with a culture and tradition alien to me! That's how bad it went. Sure, my poverty was by choice, but it was also taxing my sanity. I couldn't get my mind to stop racing to ensure my survival. I was living, breathing, dreaming and waking up to just surviving another day.
- partner - I love my independence - doing what I want to do, being what I want to be and going where I want to go. But after traveling alone too long, I was getting lonely. I wanted to wake up in the morning with someone I like to be with. But as a drifter, a partner was hard to come by...especially when you struggle with the cheapest meal on a side street. Instead of asking for specific qualities, I simply asked my universe to find me the right girl.
Mike
When I reconnected with an old friend, Mike, in Chiang Mai in Jan 2019, he asked me if I wanted to be the 'soul' of his 4-room boutique hotel, Nawa Saraan. Without asking what the job really entailed or if I would get money for it, I just said yes. From then on, life took an amazing turn for abundance, ease and reprieve. The 3 things I asked from my universe, simply manifested:
- home - as soul of Nawa Saraan, I defaulted to staying at a modest room within the hotel. It had the basics I needed - a bed, bathroom, table and cabinet. My needs are meager. Nawa Saraan became home in a plush garden hotel setting. I didn't have to keep packing and unpacking anymore. I had a home! Not only that, there was a team of staff who looked after the upkeep of the hotel - Housekeeping, Maintenance, Laundry, etc. I didn't really have to do any housework (something I'm not good at anyway). I didn't have to pay for rent or utilities either. Not only did I have a home, I also had the hotel grounds to invite friends over for coffee and bread. Nawa Saraan became my slice of paradise on God's green earth.
- money - Me and Mike never talked about money. I never asked for any either. But every once in awhile, he gives me some. I don't even bother to count. I just say, "thank you". With money in my pocket, I didn't have to worry where the next meal comes from. I could even go to restaurants where 'farangs' (white foreigners) eat, but I don't. I immensely enjoy street food at B30-50/meal - why pay more? But I do have money to pay for pricey meals when invited to a group gathering in farang eating places. I even had money to buy 2 bicycles - for me and a friend! I felt so relieved not to worry about money anymore or where the next meal comes from.
- partner
The NewYorker
I found her and she found me - let's call her "The New Yorker". Together, we were seamless. I saw my role as an enabler for her, empowering her and supporting her with whatever she wanted to do (not financial). Most women I'd been with can't handle that (and take my support as entitlement). But she gets it. That's why we get along well.
Even though I just did the 'boyfriend' duties (nothing extraordinary), I was surprised at what she wrote me after she left, "You have been the best 'boyfriend' I ever had. (I want you to) realize how good you've made me feel emotionally, physically, spiritually, and whatever other levels there are. In a way, you have restored my faith in humanity." Whoa! I didn't see that coming.
Because I didn't really do anything special (I didn't donate my other kidney to her), maybe I got those praises for the things I did not do. I did not control her, didn't deceive her, didn't take her money, didn't use her. And this probably says a lot about relationships nowadays.
We were together for 2 months until she had to leave for greener career pasture. Sure, I got what I prayed for, but I didn't think it would be so short-lived. Anyway, I was grateful. We both decided we would break up because long distance is not viable, but we agreed to continue being a part of each other's lives.
Towards yearend, she came back to Chiang Mai for the yuletide season. I got a break from hotel duties and traveled a bit with her. We were together for two weeks until she had to leave again. 2019 started right for me. With The New Yorker around, 2019 ended equally as great.The New Yorker blogs:
- 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
- 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
- Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
- The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
- Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
Traveling
2019 was definitely not a year of traveling for me. The only reason I left Thailand was for my visa run. I went to Tachileik, Myanmar twice, but only for visa run. I also went to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City for the same purpose. I did however, enjoy the 2 nights I stayed in Chiang Rai. Somehow, travel does not seem as exciting as it used to be. I'm simply happy to be settled here in beautiful Chiang Mai.
On the expiration of my visa run, instead of leaving the country, I simply paid for the B1900 30-day extension. But Thai Immigration has been shaking down hard on people who have stayed too long or visited too frequently. Statistically, my days are numbered. I was lucky to survive 2019 intact. 2020 will be challenging given this immigration Zeitgeist.
Soul of Nawa Saraan
My main task was to ensure the well-being of the hotel guests - something natural for me to begin with. And I make that clear to the guests as well. I tell them that my job is to ensure they keep that smile on their faces. I still see myself as a traveler and I treat them like travelers - they feel that. Unsolicited hotel reviews say it all, often citing "the hotel manager" in good light.
- Thailand 10/10 - The manager was courteous and friendly and also bakes delicious bread!
- Spain 10/10 - The receptionist's treatment is positive (I also front for reception as I'm the sole staff)
- Canada 10/10 - Great staff, really enjoyed our stay! Staff had great tips and getting checked in and out was a breeze (yep, I'm the staff)
- France 10/10 - The hotel manager is super friendly, always very attentive to customers.
- Thailand 10/10 - The service is super good.
- China 10/10 - The staff is distinguishably friendly and nice.
- China 9.6/10 - The manager is a Filipino and very enthusiastic. It is interesting to chat with him for a long time in his spare time.
- Germany 7.9/10 - The hotel manager was very helpful.
As acting manager, I also enjoyed perks. All 3rd-party tours were complimentary to me for guest recommendation. I tried a few: elephant tour, zip-lining, cooking class, and a Muay Thai fight. They are all expensive and fun, but there's only so much I could take.
Blues Music Scene
Blues music is rare in Asia. But in Chiang Mai, it's fair game. There are a few bars playing Blues on certain days of the week. Almost nightly, I would nurse my beer at any of Chiang Mai's bars for my Blues fix - Boy Blues Bar, Thapae East, My Bar, Lost Hut, CU Corner, Mohawk Bar, etc. One of my favorite past times is exploring the bar scene. Many obscure hole-in-the-wall bars with unique atmosphere and community.
Conscious Community
Chiang Mai is a haven for the conscious community - people who are aware of their existential circumstance and pursue a life of purpose and spirituality. Granted, they are mostly hippies. Many such events are catered to them by teachers with different modalities. I've done secret sunrise, cacao ceremony, full moon ritual, cuddling party, eye gazing and a hugfest.
Thai Massage
I was lucky to have a barter-deal with the International Thai Massage School. Web review and blog advertisement in exchange for a Level-One Thai massage certification course. Too bad I didn't get the chance to use it. I still have the manual and Youtube video. Once I get a model to practice on, I should be back on track.
I think the best way to experience Thai massage therapy in Chiang Mai is to get it from any of the numerous Thai massage rock stars. You need to sign-up ahead of time since they are fully booked weeks in advance. You pay more, but they'll play you like a violin. I had one such treatment from Lar Thanakrit Khamtanong - massage teachers go to him for treatment.
Peoplescape
Because I wasn't traveling anymore, and since I have a gathering space at the hotel, I just immersed myself in Chiang Mai's peoplescape, inviting interesting people I meet for coffee and bread. Some have become regulars. I'd have them over for breakfast, lunch or dinners. I was liking it too much, it was beginning to be a fix. I had to hold back a few times to get my bearings right. By nature, I'm a very giving guy. Most appreciate it, but there were some oddballs who got through my filter and took it as entitlement. You get all kinds. On rare occasions, I get invited too - that rare reciprocity is greatly cherished.
Chiang Mai Peoplescape blogs
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
- Tom Maher's Muay Thai Fight Apr 8, 2022
- Peoplescape Mar 31, 2022
- February Chronicles 2022 Feb 28, 2022
- Welcoming the New Year Jan 31, 2022
- 2021: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2021
- Stepping Forward / Reaching Out Oct 31, 2021
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
- Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
- Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
- Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
- Guess Who's Coming to Bread Day? Mar 1, 2021
- Are You My Queen? Feb 25, 2021
- 2020: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2020
- 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020 Sep 30, 2020
- Shifting Peoplescape of Chiang Mai July 31, 2020
- The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
- Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
- Coffeemates and Breadmates (Nov 2019) Nov 30, 2019
- Coffeemates and Breadmates (Oct 2019) Oct to Nov 5, 2019
- The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
- Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
- The Outsiders (people you need to push out of your sacred circle) May 31, 2019
- Fascinating Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 22, 2019
- Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019
- Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016
Chiang Mai Woes
2019 has been hard for Chiang Mai. The burning season has been the worst ever. It was judged the most polluted place on the planet during the height of the burning. Many hotel bookings were canceled. Although the burning only lasted for 2 months, many travelers were left with the lingering impression that Chiang Mai is always polluted. They probably won't come back. If that's not bad enough, the Euro has fallen in value, making Chiang Mai a more expensive place for the European currency. Many other places outside Thailand have opened up adding more destinations for tourists. Vietnam is particularly aggressive with its tourism initiative. In fact, Danang is being touted as the new digital nomad capital of Southeast Asia. Chiang Mai has to compete with those places as well. Overall, hotel occupancy has been on record low. It hurts Nawa Saraan and of course, it hurts me as well.
Yoga
Because the hotel business was slow for the most part of the year, I had time on my hands to deepen my yoga practice. I read, practised and wrote about hand mudras (Hasta Mudra). In parallel, I also delved into T. Krishnamacharya's 20 essential mudras and prana vayu. I integrate mudra, bandha, pranayama and kumbhaka into my practice. Every morning upon waking up, I would do 20 minutes of breathing exercise followed by another 20 minutes of Vipassana. Since I hardly do any asanas anymore in my practice, I frequent Yoga in the Park - Chiang Mai for my dose of asanas. I could feel my body, spirit and mind getting stronger and integrated. Now, I can understand why someone who needs to immerse in spirituality needs to abandon life as a householder and be a monk. I am lucky to span these 2 worlds.
Since my yoga is already a bio-mind hack, what's my validation that my practice is still sound and healthy? Simple. I use my body as a benchmark. Am I strong or weak? Am I sickly or vibrant? Am I unlucky or lucky? Everything from every angle points to the positive. I could sometimes feel the strength of a raging locomotive. I hardly ever get sick, not on any kind of medication, and I feel a bounce on my stride. I always find myself in the right place, at the right time meeting people I need to meet. Additionally, I'm hardly getting old. Forever young? Maybe! That's why I am supremely confident my brand of yoga is sound and powerful.
Hacking my Biology
I need dental work. 8 years of traveling means 8 years with no dental insurance to pick-up the tab. While I enjoy having some money now, it's not enough to cover dental work. One crown is allready B15,000. Need I say more? I am left with one alternative - an ambitious one. What if I hack my biology? I had been hacking my body and my mind already, so what's the big deal? With all my deepening yogic practice, and the seeming benefit I get from it, why not level up and transcend the limits of my biology? And that's what I had been doing for the last few months. I had been doing everything I could imagine with all the mudra, bandha, pranayama and kumbhaka that I could muster, controlling the vayus, and generating heat in my Jhatara Agni with one single-minded focus - defy the limits of biology. The yogis of Tibet and India have done it. In theory, I already know how to do it. In reality, I am already doing what it takes to make it happen. Perhaps one day, it will just click and everything will fall into place. If that actually happens, the ramification is profound. Almost frightening. If I can hack my biology, then I can hack reality. If reality is indeed a simulation, then it can be hacked.
Movies
Because I was able to work out a barter deal with SXF Cinema at Maya Mall for free movies in exchange for a review, I have been a cinemaphile with roughly 40 movie reviews to my credit. Whenever it's a slow evening, I could always default to Maya Mall for a movie. Thank you, Fui!
Ending Thoughts
2019 is a Thank-U-Mike year for me. Through his kindness and friendship, I enjoyed this whole-year abundance. When shit hits the fan, Mike seems to always be there to save the day for me...even if he's in Chiang Mai and I'm somewhere else in Asia. Corollarily, I also see that by being here, I'll be around if shit hits the fan for him too. Quantum entanglement? I don't see it any other way.
Mike blogs:
- 2022: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2022
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
- April Chronicles 2022 Apr 30, 2022
- February Chronicles 2022 Feb 28, 2022
- 2021: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2021
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
- Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
- On the Brink of Hunger, the ENABLERS Come to Light Jun 21, 2021
- Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
- Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
- 2020: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2020
- Shifting Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai July 2020
- 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
- Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24-Mar24, 2019
- Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
- Overnight in Pai with Mike Jan 1, 2019
- 2018: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2018
- Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Dec 12, 2018 - Jan 1, 2019
- Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
- Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
- Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
- Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016
I cannot say I'm optimistic about 2020 about my stay in Chiang Mai. Immigration is a looming dark cloud hovering over my head. I can be refused entry on my next visa run. Furthermore, the burning season is just around the corner - Feb to Mar. I don't think I want to be here when the air gets too polluted. It doesn't make sense for me to do all that cleansing practice, only to be breathing-in bad air. Additionally, I feel the increasing need to go to a Vipassana course again. Maybe do a 20 or even a 30-day course. Things are up in the air. But whatever 2020 holds for me, I will forever remember 2019 as a year of abundance and ease. I am profoundly grateful for that.
--- Gigit (TheLoneRider)
YOGA by Gigit
|
Learn English
|
Travel like a Nomad
|
Donation Bank
Year-End Review Blogs:
- 2024: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2024
- 2023: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2023
- 2022: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2022
- 2021: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2021
- 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
- 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
- 2018: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2018
- 2017: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2017
- 2016: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2016
- 2015: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2015
- 2014: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2014
- 2013: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2013
- 2012: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2012
- 2010: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2010
- 2008: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2008
- 2003: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2003
Next story:
Goodbye Chiang Mai
(Jan 23, 2020) I thought Chiang Mai would be a perpetual honeymoon - a roof over my head, change in my pocket, food in my tummy, time for my yoga practice, and a peoplescape to immerse my life into. But many signs on the wall give a compelling narrative. Time to pack -up and see what lies ahead.....more »»
Covid 19 and the Conspiracies
(Mar - Apr, 2020) The word 'conspiracy theory' has been rendered taboo by mainstream media. But what if established facts form a picture that make up the prophetic scenario of the New World Order that the elite had been purveying the last so many decades? The Covid 19 pandemic, no matter how absurdly sounding, seems to fit into that grand design...more »»
Chiang Mai INFORMATION
Chiang Mai Map
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Bus Station
Train Station
Chiang Mai International Airport
Nong Buak Hard Park - free yoga classes daily
Arun Dara Villa - 7 exclusive rooms, 1 swimming pool for every room, grand opening
Nawa Sheeva Hotel - big rooms, high ceiling, salt-water pool, restaurant, cafe
Nawa Saraan Hotel - low density (4 spacious rooms), stone garden setting, Koi fish pond, Old City location
Arun Suite - 3 bedrooms in a 3-storie guesthouse within Old City, ideal for families
La Pizza Chiang Mai - Italian pizza, pasta, wine, dessert, coffee
Natural Bird Nest by Burapa - authentic bird's nest soup
ITM - International Training Massage School - Chiang Mai's most prestigious massage school
Float Chiang Mai - sensory deprivation float pod
Zira Spa - upscale authentic Thai massage and spa treatment
Tawan Bike - motorcycle rental | +66 91 635 2863 | Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Chiang Mai FYI / Tips
- crop-burning season in Chiang Mai is between late Feb to early April. But laws change everytime. This year, 2019, there is a 61-day ban on burning so the farmers started burning early. When my plane was approaching Chiang Mai on Jan 24, 2019, there was already a thick blanket of smog covering the entire city (and beyond). But within the city itself, you won't feel it (but that doesn't mean the air is healthy). To monitor air conditions in real time, refer to site: Chiang Mai Air Pollution: Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI)
- hot season begins March and lasts until June
- wet season begins July and lasts until September
- best time to visit Chiang Mai is mid-September to mid-February - after the monsoon and before the burning
- you have to try Khao Soi, this is north Thailand's culinary staple
- the tourist area where most of the hotels, restaurants, ticket offices, tour operators are, is located in the Old City
- to exchange your dollars to Thai Baht, the Super Rich Money Exchange give the best rates. There are many branches scattered around Chiang Mai
- get a red cab (songthao) outside the train station for Baht 50 (instead of paying B100 if inside the train station) to Old City - if you haggle nicely enough...I did!
- shared red taxi (songthao) - B30 standard fare plying all over Old City
- for only B50/day, best to rent a bike to go around the Old City - it's a 2.5km2 with lots to discover
- FREE daily yoga classes from 9:00am to 10:15am at Nong Buak Hard Park (southwest corner of Old City). Resident and passing-through teachers take turns conducting yoga classes.
Blues/Jazz Bars in Chiang Mai
- North Gate Jazz Coop - at Chang Phueg Gate, great Tuesday jam session, Blues on Sundays at 11pm by the Chiang Mai Blues band
- Boy Blues Bar - at the Night Bazaar. Mondays at 9:30pm is open mic
- My Secret Cafe - near Wat Phra Singh. Tuesdays at 7:30pm for the changing front-act and 9:00pm for the Panic Band
- Taphae East - 88 Thapae Rd. (just north of Night Bazaar). Fridays at 9:30pm by Chiang Mai Blues Band
Chiang Mai Cost Index
- B60 Chiang beer
- B250 1 hour drop-in yoga session
- B200 one hour Thai body massage at WAYA Massage (highly recommended)
- B50 noodle soup with meat
- B50 coffee
- B40 pad thai
- B30/kilo wash-only laundry
- B50/kilo wash+iron laundry
- B100-150 dorm bed/night
- B250 fan room/night
- B30 internet cafe/hour
- B170-190 Movies Sat-Sun and public holidays
- B130-150 Movies weekdays
- B100 Movies Wednesdays (movie discount day)
- B750 1/2 day Thai cooking lessons
- B900-1000 1 full day Thai cooking lessons
- B400 Muay Thai boxing ticket
- B2500 starting room rate at the luxury hotel, Nawa Sheeva (highly recommended)
- B450 bus, Chiang Mai to Bangkok
- B160-180 bus, Chiang Mai to Pai
- B1250 bus, Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
- B1650 slow boat, Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang
- B210 bus, Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, 3-4 hours
- B360 Green VIP bus, Chiang Mai to Mae Sai (Thai border town for visa run to Tachileik, Myanmar)
- B50 bicycle rental, 24 hours
- B200 motorbike rental, 24 hours
- B273 #51 sleeping train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- B638 #7 a/c train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
- B50 red taxi fare from point to point
- B100 red taxi fare from train terminal to city
- B2000 full day elephant sanctuary
- B750 Chiang Rai one-day tour
- B1500 mountain biking scenic ride
Chiang Mai Trains by Train36.com
- Chiang Mai trains for Bangkok - 2 day trains, 3 night trains, daily schedule
- Train 14 to Bangkok - departs 5pm daily, arrives BKK 6:15am, 1st class and 2nd class sleeping accomodation, Special Express
- Chiang Mai trains to other destinations -
Chiang Mai to Bangkok Trains
source: railway.co.th- Check Train Schedule & Fares
- Book Online - direct booking with State Railway of Thailand. Best to register first. If going to BKK from CNX, click "Northern Line".
note -- big difference between booking direct with the State Railway and booking with an online 3rd party agent. 12GO was charging B1330 for the same trip that only cost me B941 with the State Railway.
note -- Oct 2022, I took the #10 Train from CNX to BKK, upper berth, 2nd class, a/c, sleeper, B941. The train was clean, fast, comfortable and modern. If you have heavy luggage that will cost more money in flight checkin, I would suggest this train. Otherwise, the flight now is so much cheaper it doesn't even make sense to take the bus or train.
Bangkok to Chiang Mai by Train from Bang Sue Train Station
For more train info: Bangkok to Chiang Mai trains - departing from Hua Lamphong - MRT (Bangkok)
(I'm using Bang Sue as a starting point because I was closer to it, but you may be closer to the Hua Lamphong station)
- take the MRT train to Bang Sue Station. Take the #1 Exit to the north provincial trains
- Proceed to Counter 2. You will see an information booth, a train schedule chart and the ticket counter. Choose the train and pay at the ticket counter.
- daily train schedule:
- 8:48am - #7 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 7:30pm, not sleeper, B638
- 2:06pm - #109 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 4:05am, sleeper
- 6:31pm - #9 Premium Train, arrive Chiang Mai 7:15am, sleeper, B938 upper deck, B1038 lower deck
- 7:56pm - #13 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 8:40am, sleeper, B768 upper deck, B838 lower deck
- 10:22pm - #51 Train, arrive Chiang Mai 12:10pm, sleeper, 3rd class B270 (non sleeper), 2nd class B438, B728 upper deck, B798 lower deck
Loei to Chiang Mai by Bus
- From Loei town center, take a tuk-tuk ride to the bus station, B30. There is only one bus station.
- As of June 28, 2020 (still on Covid schedule), there are only 3 night trips: 8:30pm, 9:30pm and 12 midnight. 9 hours, B470.
- The bus makes the following stops at the following times from a 9pm Loei departure: Phu Ruea (9:50pm), Phitsanulok (12:40am), Uttradit (2:20am), Lampang (4:35am)
- Final bus stop is at the Red Bus Arcade, Chiang Mai, 9 hour-trip, arriving 6am (from 9pm Loei departure).
- Take a red songthaew to Old City, B50. They'll try to charge you B100, but they'll take B50 (just assure the driver you won't tell the other passengers).
Chiangmai Blogs by TheLoneRider
- Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019 - Oct 10, 2022
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
- Siamaya Chocolates Oct 2, 2022 [an error occurred while processing this directive]
- September Snapshots Sep 30, 2022
- Carrot Cake Sep 12, 2022
- Making Coconut Bread Sep 3, 2022
- August Snapshots Aug 31, 2022
- Yoga Nidra with Chunyah and Tom Aug 18, 2022
- Coconut Pancake Aug 11, 2022
- July Snapshots Jul 31, 2022
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
- Jason, Max and Elizabeth Pizza Nite Jul 28, 2022
- Yakiniku Dinner with Max and Jason Jul 25, 2022
- Icebath at Nawa Saraan Jul 6 - Oct 5, 2022
- June Snapshots Jun 30, 2022
- Tom, Chunyah and Simona Pizza Nite Jun 23, 2022
- Yoga Class Pizza Nite Jun 15, 2022
- Pranayama with Nicha Jun 14, 2022
- May Snapshots May 31, 2022
- Lover's Quarrel May 26, 2022
- Getting Lost on a Hike May 25, 2022
- Biohacker Meetup at 'Living with The Spirit' May 22, 2022
- Music and Magic at Paapu House May 5, 2022
- Breathwork + Icebath @ Alt_Chiangmai II Apr 20, 2022
- April Chronicles 2022 Apr 30, 2022
- Tombstone Epitaph Apr 29, 2022
- Kayaking along the Ping River with the BioHackers Apr 24, 2022 [an error occurred while processing this directive]
- Pizza Nite with Jerry, Paolo and Abby Apr 9, 2022
- Tom Maher's Muay Thai Fight Apr 8, 2022
- Breathwork + Icebath @ Alt_Chiangmai Apr 6, 2022
- Yoga with Leo Apr 5, 2022
- March Chronicles 2022 Mar 31, 2022
- Street Photo Mar 31, 2022
- Peoplescape Mar 31, 2022
- Chiang Mai's Recovering Music Scene Mar 31, 2022
- Street Photo Mar 31, 2022
- Yoga and Fitness Mar 26, 2022
- Friday Bitcoin Meetups Mar 18, 2022
- Pizza Nite with Aida and Sophie Mar 14, 2022
- Pizza Nite with Kevin, Jamie and Kris Mar 10, 2022
- In Search of Genetic Immortality Mar 5, 2022
- February Chronicles 2022 Feb 28, 2022
- Palm-Feeding Wild Birds Feb 26, 2022
- Cuckoo Feb 16, 2022
- Tell John Feb 16, 2022
- Pizza Nite with Kris, Simona and Mary Feb 15, 2022
- Pizza Nite with the Chiang Mai Boyz Feb 6, 2022
- Welcoming the New Year Jan 31, 2022
- January Snapshots Jan 31, 2022
- ABS Fitness Challenge Jan 16 - Apr 16, 2022
- Pumpkin Tahini Recipe Jan 3, 2022
- 2021: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2021
- Pizza Nite with Simona and Lisa Dec 28, 2021
- Tahini Salad Dressing Dec 27, 2021
- Baba Ganoush Recipe Dec 23, 2021
- 7 Universal Laws Dec 20, 2021
- Sacred Circuitry Dec 18, 2021
- Cave-Living in a Boutique Hotel in Chiang Mai Dec 14, 2021
- Tummo Yoga + Wim Hof Breathing + Full-Body Muscle Contraction Dec 13, 2021
- Monk Chat Dec 10, 2021
- Making Tahini and Hummus Dec 8, 2021
- Watering the Plants Hands-Free Dec 2, 2021
- Vietnamese Phin Coffee Filter Dec 2, 2021
- Tummo Yoga Dec 1, 2021
- The Bliss of Inner Fire: Book Summary/Review Dec 1, 2021
- The Bliss of Inner Fire: Heart Practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa Dec 1, 2021
- 'Must Experience' Cafés of Chiang Mai Nov 30, 2021
- British Hobnob Cookies Nov 22, 2021
- New York Cheese Cake Nov 22, 2021
- Dham's Poetry Nov 14, 2021
- Pizza Nite with Simona and Nat Nov 11, 2021
- Stepping Forward / Reaching Out Oct 31, 2021
- Cancel Culture Attack Oct 31, 2021
- Mantra Primer Oct 29, 2021
- Spinal Mobility Oct 7, 2021
- Swedish Cinnamon Rolls [Kanelbullar] Oct 4, 2021
- Just Bring 2 Chinese Oct 3, 2021
- Sep Snapshots Sep 31, 2021
- One-Leg Yoga Asana Sequences Sep 30, 2021
- Pizza Nite with Nut, Monika and Yuki Sep 27, 2021
- 23-Minute Ice Bath Sep 27, 2021
- Pizza Nite with Nut, Simona and Malee Sep 23, 2021
- Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) Sep 23, 2021
- Making Cornbread Sep 15, 2021
- Kombucha: 2nd Batch Sep 11, 2021
- Making German Stollen Bread Sep 9, 2021
- Pizza Nite with Jackson, Goi and Paapu Sep 6, 2021
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
- Making Homemade Kombucha Aug 30, 2021
- Wrong Question to Ask This Crowd Aug 29, 2021
- Pizza Nite with Tom, Chunyah and Goi Aug 20, 2021
- Pizza Nite with Moms and Kids Aug 15, 2021
- Bahya Kumbhaka (breath-hold on the exhale) Aug 14, 2021
- Everybody's Only Friend Aug 13, 2021
- Vanillekipferl (German Vanilla Crescent Cookies) Aug 11, 2021
- Fighting Infection through Yoga Aug 3, 2021
- Too Close for Friendship Aug 2, 2021
- Manifesting: Epicurus' Pursuit Jul 31, 2021
- Homemade Rum Raisin Ice Cream Jul 30, 2021
- Ice Bath at Nawa Saraan Healing Space Jul 25, 2021
- Pizza Nite + Slack Line + Hammock Jul 23, 2021
- Yin-Yoga & Hypnosis with Christine Thiel Jul 20, 2021
- Pizza Nite with James and Nat Jul 19, 2021
- Antara Kumbhaka on Nadi Shodan Pranayama: Yogic Breath-Hold on the Inhale Jul 17, 2021
- Moving and Cashing-Out Bitcoin Jun 2 - Jul 11, 2021
- 'The Bow' Yoga Jul 7, 2021
- Yoga Classes with Calum Mar 27 - Jul 4, 2021
- Hike to Wat Pa Thammachat Waterfall Jul 2, 2021
- Pizza Brunch with the Yogis July 1, 2021
- Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
- On the Brink of Hunger, the ENABLERS Come to Light Jun 21, 2021
- Hatha Vinyasa Yoga with Katharine Day Jun 17, 2021
- Pranayama Basics II Jun 16, 2021
- 36-Hour Love Life Jun 11, 2021
- Pranayama Basics I Jun 9, 2021
- Biohackers Meetup in Chiang Mai Jun 6, 2021
- Learning How to Breathe Jun 2, 2021
- Not the Usual Day-to-Day Life May 31, 2021
- Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
- Breathwork & Ice Bath with Jason Ryer of Zen Strength May 23, 2021
- It's Raining Bell Peppers May 7, 2021
- Yoga Classes with Nana Apr 20, 2021
- You Want to be Wonder Woman? Apr 8, 2021
- Kunjal Kriya / Vamana Dhauti (induced vomiting) Apr 1, 2021
- Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
- Varisara Dhauti (cleansing of the entire digestive tract) Mar 26, 2021
- Spiritual Backpacker Interview by Napasorn 'Cherry' Suvarnapradip Mar 23, 2021
- Private One-on-One Yoga Classes with Doriana Feb 17 - Mar 14, 2021
- Transformational Life Events Mar 13, 2021
- Guess Who's Coming to Bread Day? Mar 1, 2021
- Mula Shodhana (anal cleansing) Feb 27, 2021
- Are You My Queen? Feb 25, 2021
- Breaking the 5-Minute Breath-hold Barrier Feb 25, 2021
- Kirtan with Chiang Mai's Khun Thai Seekers Feb 7, 2021
- Breaking the 4-minute Breath-hold Feb 7, 2021
- Pranayama Primer Feb 2, 2021
- Heartbreak in every Song Jan 24, 2021
- The Silent Killer is Baaack! Jan 12, 2021
- Learning the Thai Language Jan 9, 2021
- 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
- Reversing/Slowing Down the Aging Process Dec 30, 2020
- Hike to Huay Keaw Waterfall Dec 20, 2020
- Yoga Mat Dec 19, 2020
- Hiking to Wat Pha Lat along the Monk's Trail Dec 19, 2020
- Am I Psycho? Dec 9, 2020
- Muffin Man Dec 8, 2020
- Polyamory Dec 4, 2020
- The Wim Hof Ice Bath Dec 3, 2020
- RSVP Nov 25, 2020
- High Intensity Interval Yoga (Yoga + HIIT) Nov 14, 2020
- Cleansing the Nadis (Energy Pathway) Nov 13, 2020
- Yoga for a 360-degree Core Nov 6, 2020
- Edward Witten: 'the smartest living physicist' Nov 4, 2020
- Srinivasa Ramanujan: Mathematician of the Divine Oct 27, 2020
- Bashar as Channeled by Darryl Anka Oct 26, 2020
- Vinyasa Krama and Ashtanga Yoga with Aida Yoga Oct 18, 2020
- Deepak Chopra: author, lecturer, healer Oct 12, 2020
- Facebook Friends Oct 1, 2020
- Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020 Sep 30, 2020
- Siddhis (yogic super powers) Sep 30, 2020
- Learning the Import/Export Trade Sep 4, 2020
- Music and Magic at Justin's Birthday Bash Sep 3, 2020
- Biggest Stone in his Shoe Sep 1, 2020
- Abandoned Aug 25, 2020
- Intelligent Romantic Break-up Aug 25, 2020
- Dad-Zoned Aug 18, 2020
- Public Display of Affection Aug 9, 2020
- Gabriella's Birthday Bash at Mothership Resort Aug 8-9, 2020
- Shifting Peoplescape of Chiang Mai July 31, 2020
- Yoga Class for Strength and Muscle Jul 30, 2020
- Yoga Class for Optimum Digestion July 29, 2020
- Yoga Class for Healthy Eyes Jul 27, 2020
- Hippie Night at Nawa Saraan Healing Space July 24, 2020
- The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
- Prana Vayu Adhitthana Yoga Class July 11-12, 2020
- Coming Back to Chiang Mai Jun 29, 2020
- Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 23, 2020
- Prasnopanishad: Understanding Prana Jan 17, 2020
- Hiking the Monk's Trail Jan 15, 2020
- Chaturanga Jan 10, 2020
- You Spooned Me Jan 3, 2020
- 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
- Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
- Visiting Mae Sot Dec 27-30, 2019
- Let's Make it About You - an Epiphany Dec 17, 2019
- Shut-Up! Dec 7, 2019
- Roasted Red Bell Pepper Puree Dec 3, 2019
- Coffeemates and Breadmates (Nov 2019) Nov 30, 2019
- Bhujangini Mudra Nov 25, 2019
- Mathangini Mudra Nov 24, 2019
- Kaka Mudra Nov 23, 2019
- Pasini Mudra Nov 20, 2019
- Aswini Mudra Nov 18, 2019
- Sambhavi Mudra Nov 16, 2019
- Manduka Mudra Nov 15, 2019
- Tataka Mudra Nov 14, 2019
- Sakti Calana Mudra Nov 10, 2019
- Vajroli Mudra Nov 9, 2019
- Coffeemates and Breadmates (Oct 2019) Oct to Nov 5, 2019
- Yoni Mudra Nov 1, 2019
- Viparita Karani Mudra Oct 31, 2019
- Khecari Mudra Oct 30, 2019
- Mahadeva Mudra Oct 28, 2019
- Sacred Cacao - Chakra Dance Journey Oct 26, 2019
- Partner Healing with Natascha Oct 24, 2019
- Maha Bandha Mudra Oct 24, 2019
- Point-Of-Failure Birthday Workout Oct 22, 2019
- Mula Bandha Mudra Oct 21, 2019
- Hugfest at Thapae Gate, Chiang Mai Oct 19, 2019
- Anushasan Mudra Oct 18, 2019
- Ling Mudra Oct 17, 2019
- Jalandhara Bandha Mudra Oct 15, 2019
- Learning Thai with Cee Oct 13, 2019
- Uddiyana Bandha Mudra Oct 10, 2019
- Nabho Mudra Oct 9, 2019
- Maha Mudra Oct 7, 2019
- 20 Essential Mudras by T. Krishnamacharya Oct. 6, 2019
- Mindfulness Gong Bath by Vee (Veerayuth Pongsiri) Oct 3, 2019
- Cuddle Party by Abundant Love CM Oct 1, 2019
- Vayu Mudra Oct 1, 2019
- Visa-Run to Tachileik, Myanmar Sep 28, 2019
- Sankalpa Mudra Sep 27, 2019
- Surya Pradarshini Mudra Sep 26, 2019
- Eye-Gazing at Heart Space Sep 20, 2019
- Prana Vayu (Pranic Wind) Sep 20, 2019
- 2-Week Yoga Challenge by Agnese Erba Sep 17, 2019
- The Mudra Project Sep 13, 2019
- Sunday Vinyasa Flow with Marina Forster Sep 8, 2019
- Shamanic Breathwork by Rachel Constantino Sep 4, 2019
- The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
- Of Winos and Yogis Aug 26, 2019
- The 9 Jhanas of Buddha Aug 22, 2019
- Wicked Game: Anger and Pain August 19, 2019
- Full Moon Ceremony at Heart Space Aug 15, 2019
- Yin Yoga - Water Element by Martina Barabas Aug 15, 2019
- Hatha Mix Yoga with Christin Aug 13, 2019
- Boy Blues Bar Rocks Chiang Mai Aug 5, 2019
- Back to my Beloved Chiang Mai Aug 1, 2019
- Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
- Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
- Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
- Secret Sunrise: Water July 3, 2019
- Hotel Review: Arun Suite June 27, 2019
- Bruce Lipton: Epigentics to Transcend Genes June 24, 2019
- Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
- Connective Cacao and Sound Journey June 12, 2019
- Chiangmai BLUES June 6, 2019
- Hatha Slow Flow with Neil Jefferson June 3, 2019
- Meditating with One Million Meditators Movement June 1, 2019
- Vinyasa Happy Flow Series by Vaida May 31, 2019
- Muay Thai at the Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium May 30, 2019
- Yoga Flow Through the 7 Chakras by Sabrina Pilz May 30, 2019
- The Outsiders (people you need to push out of your sacred circle) May 31, 2019
- Fascinating Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 22, 2019
- World Meditation Day at Heart Space May 21, 2019
- Abs Yoga by Gigit May 12, 2019
- Kundalini and Vinyasa Yoga with Nicola Symons May 10, 2019
- Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
- Tok Sen Massage from Ying May 8, 2019
- Bruschetta: Nawa Saraan Style Apr 22, 2019
- Thai Cooking at Pra Nang Thai Cookery School Apr 20, 2019
- Bonding with the Elephants in Chiang Mai Apr 11, 2019
- Ziplining in Chiang Mai with Eagle Track Zipline Apr 10, 2019
- Getting Thai Massage from Chiang Mai's Best (Lar Thanakrit Khamtanong) Mar 21, 2019
- Being the Soul of Nawa Saraan Hotel Mar 18, 2019
- Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019
- Curing Cancer with Yoga? Feb 21, 2019
- International Training Massage School (ITM): Level 1 Feb 11-15, 2019
- Sandesch Album Launch by Christoph Joerg Feb 13, 2019
- Meditation in a Sensory Deprivation Tank at Float Chiang Mai Jan 29, 2019
- Reiki Share at the Mastermind Brain Spa Jan 26, 2019
- Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
- 4 Days in Chiang Mai at Nawa Saraan Hotel Jan 2-6, 2019
- Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
- An Intimate Conversation with my Universe in Chiang Mai Aug 8, 2018
- Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
- Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
- Yoga Exploration at The Yoga Tree with Gernot Aug 1, 2018
- Laughter Yoga with Saffiya Arnous July 31, 2018
- Yoga with Adam at Hidden House Yoga, Chiang Mai July 29, 2018
- 2 Weeks in Chiang Mai July 25 - Aug 7, 2018
- A First Timer in Chiang Mai Apr 9-23, 2016
- Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016
- Dance Mandala in Chiang Mai at The Yoga Tree Apr 19, 2016
- Songkran Waterfight Festival in Chiang Mai Apr 13-15, 2016
- Border Crossing from Siem Reap (Cambodia) to Bangkok (Thailand) to Chiang Mai April 9-10, 2016
Travel Tips for Thailand
How to Get a 60-Day Thai Tourist Visa and then Extend by another 30 Days
This process is BEFORE Covid 19. Not sure what it is now.
- Bring the following to the Thai embassy:
a) proof of money (bank statement will suffice)
b) flight booking to Thailand
c) onward flight back to your country from Thailand
d) filled-in tourist visa form
e) 2 passport pictures
f) hotel booking in Thailand (they didn't ask me for this but better be safe)
g) passport with at least 6 months validity - After handing over all the documents, they will ask you to come pick your passport with the visa the following day from 4 to 5pm. That's it!
- NOTE: after 2 successful attempts, I was already questioned the 3rd time.
60-Day Thai Tourist Visa
NOTE: There is no need to go back to your country to get the Thai tourist visa. Any major city with a Thai Embassy will do. Apparently there is also no need to have an invitation from a Thai establishment to justify the visa.
- bring the following to the Immigration Office:
a) passport (make sure your Tourist Visa hasn't expired yet)
b) Baht 1900
c) photocopy of your passport + visa duration date stamp + TM6 card (white immigration card) and sign all the copies
d) completed TM7 visa extension form (available at the Immigration Office)
e) one 4cmx6cm passport picture - submit the above to the Front Desk. They will give you a stub with your number on it. Take a seat and wait for your number to be called
- when your number is called, your picture will be taken. Then go back to your seat. They will call you again.
- when they call you again, they'll give you your passport with your extended visa. That's it!
- when there are no lines, the whole process can take only 10 minutes
30-Day Extension
NOTE: When your 60-day visa is close to expiry and you want to extend your stay. No need to leave Thailand.
Book Train Tickets in Thailand
Book Train Tickets in Thailand Online by Train36.com
General Travel Tips
- arrive early - in case there is a snag (visa snag, documentation snag, transport ticket snag, etc.), you will have ample time to troubleshoot the problem if you arrive early (to the airport, to the bus terminal, etc.)
- put detailed itinerary on the Calendar apps of your smart-phone according to timelines - this is where you do all your thinking and planning. Once written down, you don't have to think anymore while you are on the journey...you just follow the steps. This frees your mind for something else that might happen while you are already en route
- avoiding scams - as a general rule, I ignore the touts or anyone I don't know who call out to me. The calling comes in many forms - "Hi! Where are you from?", "Excuse me! Excuse me!", "Where are you going?". I don't look them in the eye and I remain non-verbal with them. If you reply to them, you just gave them an 'in' to hound you. In order not to look rude, I smile and wave the 'not interested' hand to them, without looking at them.
- power bank - hand-carry your power bank. Do not check it in. You can be called in when you are already inside the plane to go all the way to the loading dock so you can personally remove the power bank...and chances are, you'll have to surrender it to them. And you might delay the plane departure!
Currency Converter
»» back to Lucid Thought
»» back to Traveling
»» back to Homepage
ARCHIVE 2024:
JAN |
FEB |
MAR |
APR |
MAY |
JUN |
JUL |
AUG |
SEP |
OCT |
NOV |
DEC
1970 |
1973 |
1975 |
1976 |
1979 |
1981 |
1996 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
2014 |
2015 |
2016 |
2017 |
2018 |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
ALL BLOGS