Best Year Ever
I've had many episodes in previous years where life was abundant. But this year, 2020, despite the pandemic and global mayhem, I wouldn't be too far off the mark to qualify this to by my BEST YEAR EVER.

1. love life - I'd been alone too long traveling solo all these years, and being with someone again was a big blessing. Some were fleeting episodes that went nowhere while others were well-intentioned conscious relationships that were great while they lasted. Of course, no guarantees - you always take a chance. It doesn't always work out, but if it's a good fit, it's a homerun feeling.
   
   The nice thing about having a love life is that small mundane things get amplified. An innocent 'no' becomes rejection. A simple 'yes' becomes a euphoric triumph. The peaks get steeper and the valleys get deeper. "Driving Miss Daisy" becomes a white-knuckle roller coaster ride. It's a thrill. But the ride ends at some point, and you get off. Price of admission? Sometimes, your sanity. Rarely, but it still happens, you find a good fit and the wild ride morphs into something magical where both of you come out enriched and evolved. Still, the ride ends and life resumes. If there is anything that can be learned, it's impermanence. It's actually a good thing. Makes you treasure the moments while they last.
2. money - I didn't have a lot of money, but what I had was enough for my metaphorical 'khao soi' need and beer (for Blues music) money. It already meant a lot to me not to think of money when in previous years, I could arrive at a country with only $19 and have to wing my survival. There was even a point I made a tidy sum and gave it away - but it wasn't accepted.
3. shelter - often, I would stay on a bunk bed in a dorm room - putting up with snorers, people to talk on the phone at 2am, or people having a loud conversation in the wee hours. Here in Chiang Mai, Mike gave me one of the rooms at his boutique hotel, Nawa Saraan. However way I tried to pay him, he wouldn't take my money. Not only shelter, I had the use of a fully functioning bakery, the garden and the yoga space. This was just unreal!
4. no specific task - before Covid when I was officially the 'soul of Nawa Saraan', I had responsibilities to ensure the well-being of the hotel guests. Now, with the hotel being closed due to the pandemic, I had no specific task to do. Mike could have given me tasks, but no, he didn't. Of course, I took it upon myself to ensure the well-being of the hotel - watering the plants, feeding the fish, doing minor repairs, etc. I could wake up in the morning asking myself, "What excites me today?".
5. yoga - with no real work, I had all the time to deepen my yoga practice without becoming a monk. Yes, it was yoga every day - either attending yoga classes at the park or teaching classes here at Nawa Saraan Healing Space, or even doing both. On top of that, I still had time to devote to reading, research, biohacking and blogging about new epiphanies. I weave everything together into a seamless singularity and push the limits of body and mind. Together with James (a competition break-dancer and yoga teacher), who attends my Abs class and Prana Vayu class, we push the boundaries until we wipe out - it's good to have someone strong you can push limits with. I sometimes reach a threshold where I no longer feel fatigued - the energy just keeps gushing through. I can even say I am at the peak of my practice - physically and mentally, I am strong. I am resilient from disease, I live harmoniously with my surrounding, and I hardly age anymore. These are my benchmarks for an evolving practice. What's next? As taboo as it may sound, I'm working on activating siddhis. For a curious explorer of life and reality, this (for now), is holy grail.
6. friends - with a cafe by the hotel and a full bakery at my disposal, I invited select friends to come celebrate life and friendship over bread and coffee. I usually have different friends come over almost daily after my morning yoga. Freshly brewed coffee and fresh-baked bread without the cafe price.

Challenges
At this point, I don't think I still have any survival challenges. I'm thriving. What I would consider challenges would be 'next level' - hacking my biology. Developing siddhis and transcending the visible limits of reality. I know, it's lofty. But I have no doubt that these realms exist. Let's just say I'm skimming the surface. Maybe one day, I get to dive deep into it - and come back to tell the tale.

Highlights
Hmmm...seriously, the entire 2020 was a highlight. Having a love life was a highlight. Coasting through 2020 with no struggle, no stress, no need for money, no need for lodging, and simply basking in abundance is a definite highlight.

1. Wim Hof method - reading up on the Wim Hof breathing changed my pranayama practice. I feel stronger and indefatigable. My students also intimated that they were not feeling tired anymore, despite the tough sequences we were doing.
2. ice bath - this is part and parcel of the Wim Hof method but it was hard to find an ice bath in a tropical country. But I stumbled upon a group who do this. Given my yoga practice, I lasted 12 minutes in the ice bath when newbies are only expected to last 30 seconds.
3. online yoga class - a fellow member of the UP Mountaineers messaged me from the Philippines asking if I can do an online yoga class for his staff who were still Covid-quarantined. More importantly, the yoga has to address physical and mental fitness. A one-session trial extended to a 13-week program. My program addressed mental fortification as much as physical fitness.
4. Mothership tribe - it was Gabriella's birthday bash. She invited select friends to spend overnight on a mountain resort (Mothership). We barely knew anyone, but when we left Mothership to resume our lives back in Chiang Mai, we were already a tribe.

Lows
As a general rule, whatever lows there were, were deterministically meant to take place - a part of the karmic process that needed to happen. I may not even know the purpose - I don't really have to. Having made that clear, I can only think of one low - my altruistic effort to help was misconstrued as a vain attempt to glorify my ego. Hurtful words were hurled. I didn't deserve that. At the very least, a polite 'thank you' would have sufficed. Well, I can only be glad I'm not in that person's shoes - not exactly a place I'd call ideal. At the end of the day, I'm walking away with my health, my well-being and my peace of mind.

Lesson learned:

1. good intentions can backfire even with no wrong action. Continue doing the right deed, just expect the unexpected.
2. desperate people are like drowning people - they'll grab-on to whoever they can, risking drowning to both. Love these people from a distance, but keep them at arm's length.

1. 2022: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2022
2. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
3. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
4. April Chronicles 2022 Apr 30, 2022
5. February Chronicles 2022 Feb 28, 2022
6. 2021: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2021
7. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
8. Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
9. On the Brink of Hunger, the ENABLERS Come to Light Jun 21, 2021
10. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
11. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
12. 2020: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2020
13. Shifting Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai July 2020
14. 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
15. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24-Mar24, 2019
16. Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
17. Overnight in Pai with Mike Jan 1, 2019
18. 2018: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2018
19. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Dec 12, 2018 - Jan 1, 2019
20. Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
21. Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
22. Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
23. Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016

1. 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
2. 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
3. Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
4. The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
5. Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019

1. Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
2. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
3. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
4. Guess Who's Coming to Bread Day? Mar 1, 2021
5. 2020: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2020
6. Shifting Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai July 2020
7. The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
8. Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
9. Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
10. Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
11. Fascinating Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai II May 22, 2019
12. Kundalini and Vinyasa Yoga with Nicola Symons May 10, 2019
13. Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
14. Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019

1. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
2. Yin-Yoga & Hypnosis with Christine Thiel Jul 20, 2021
3. Pizza Brunch with the Yogis July 1, 2021
4. Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
5. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
6. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
7. Guess Who's Coming to Bread Day? Mar 1, 2021
8. 2020: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2020
9. Shifting Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai July 2020
10. Friends, Coffeemates And Breadmates Dec 31, 2019

1. Pizza Nite with James and Nat July 19, 2021
2. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
3. 2020: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2020

Traveling
Myawaddy MM | Hpa-an MM | Mawlamyine MM | Mae Sot TH| Umphang TH | Sukhothai TH | Phitsanulok TH | Udon Thani TH | Vientiane LAO | Nong Khai TH | Chiang Khan TH | Loei TH | Chiang Mai TH

With the onslaught of the burning season in Chiang Mai, I packed up and headed south in late January, not really knowing where to go. I left with the assumption that I wouldn't come back any more - that life would take me somewhere else. I had a little cash left from work at Nawa Saraan, which took the edge off traveling.

Myanmar: I thought about doing the Goenka-Vipassana meditation course in Yangon, but visa snags made it impossible. I just drifted to places I haven't been to before. Myanmar was a bit of a struggle - only designated hotels for foreigners are available. They are usually too pricey. It's also a dusty place - very third world, much like the rural countryside of my country, the Philippines. Everything there is just a blur now except my Pa-Auk-Vipassana stay at Mawlamyine.

Thailand: From Myanmar, I headed back to Thailand and stayed a bit in Maesot. It was eventful. I taught marketing English to hotel staff, made friends with the owner of Sleep Nest Hostel where I taught yoga to its guests, and almost had a teaching stint at a prestigious all-Chinese school. I headed east and stayed a few nights in Sukhothai, Phitsanulok and did a longer stay in Udon Thani where abundance rained again.

Laos: With my Thai visa expiration, I crossed into Laos and stayed a few days in Vientiane. I'd been there before and it never resonated. I used my time to dabble in an online job, writing software review for a Poland-based company. With no training provided and a tight deadline to meet, it was a pressure cooker - I bailed.

Thailand: Timing was perfect that when I crossed back into Thailand, the Covid lockdown happened - thank God! It would have been a nightmare to get stuck in Vientiane. I defaulted into Nong Khai where I became friends with the owners (Julian, Pao and Benny) of Mut Mee Guest House. I stayed there the entire 3 months I was stranded in Nong Khai. Desperately wanting to get back to Chiang Mai (no bus service), I inched my way, town by town, towards Chiang Mai, discovering the wonders of these quaint sleepy charming towns. I finally reached Chiang Mai and Mike was there to offer me continued stay at his lovely Nawa Saraan Hotel, which by that time was already closed due to the pandemic. In short, I had the whole hotel complex as my home. Again, thank you Mike! My stay during this time marked the best time ever in my life!

Covid Pandemic
The pandemic has caused so much havoc - the first time ever that a pandemic has put everything to a screeching halt on the planet. Schools were shut-down, people were quarantined, businesses were closed, international borders were sealed-off and flights were canceled. Home became a prison cell.

My view is controversial (because I talk about conspiracy) and even insensitive (because others lost loved ones), but I doubt if there is really a pandemic. Why? Because mainstream media (Fox, CNN, Washington Post, NY Times, etc.), social media (Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, etc.) and mainstream institutions (WHO, CDC, etc.) launched a concerted effort to sell a narrative - that there is a pandemic and that everyone should be vaccinated. Deaths are wrongly (and deliberately) labeled a Covid-death. It's too aggressively done to a point where social media posts by individuals were pulled-down if it contradicted the proposed agenda - even something as widely accepted as getting Vitamin D from the sun to boost the immune system. There is massive censorship happening. People still think there is free speech, but it's only free speech if you echo the popular narrative.

I've seen this before. There is a massive public brainwash if the powers-that-be want to sell something to the public. They've done this in invading Panama, Iraq, Sudan, Vietnam, etc. They are extremely clever at doing this - the compliant public stood no chance to exercise critical thinking.

Moreover, reputable molecular biologist and immunologist, (Dolores Cahill, Phd, etc.) and many other well-respected health specialists have risked lives and careers exposing the cover-up and statistics purporting that there is a pandemic. The resulting deaths are roughly the same as the annual predictable deaths from the common flu. Global death statistics say fatality is 1% (same as the common flu) - this is not a pandemic.

I don't know how all this pans out, but as of this writing, there is a race on which vaccine is out - China, India, the US and other countries are all cashing-in on this. With the hyped propaganda, you don't even have to twist the public's arm - they'll beg for the vaccine. Not sure about you, but I will NOT take that vaccine. I don't know what they put in it, and I certainly don't trust them.

Covid 19 Blogs

Tourist Visa
Since the Covid lockdown, staying in Thailand has become unpredictable and precarious. There wasn't any set immigration policy in place to allow travelers to plan ahead. It was always at the last minute when something official comes out of Immigration. It was nerve-wracking to be in the dark, not knowing if you have to leave the country or not. What if there was no extension and all international borders remain closed? Would I now have to return back to my country and face quarantine? Luckily, the Thai Immigration remained benevolent by giving 2-month extensions for a reasonable B1900 and even free for the first extensions. In these Covid times, the best place for me is Chiang Mai. I am lucky to be 'stranded' here. I don't mind growing roots here and calling this beautiful place, a permanent home.

Teaching Job
This came out-of-the-blue when I was in Mae Sot. I met a former principal who took exception to my English and the way I regard teaching. She set me up to be an English teacher in a prestigious Chinese school. Snags made it not viable. But the teaching specter followed me in Udon Thani and other places. It got me excited but despite pursuing it, nothing came of it. C'est la vie.

Long Hair
I had a clean-shaven head for the last 20 years because I couldn't come to terms with my grays. But the paradigm changed. My last shave was Dec 31, 2019. Now, my hair is a full one-year-old. I like it. I like my shaggy gray. I'll grow it some more. Maybe take on a hippie look 🙂.

Happiness
Everybody wants to be happy, but very few are. Am I? Despite 2020 being the best year ever for me, I don't really know if I am happy - it still remains abstract. Is happiness simply the absence of suffering? Or the presence of joy? Alain Boton, philosopher and provocateur, dissects the thinking of the greatest philosophers on how happiness can be attained. At the end of it, I still don't know what it takes to be happy.

In Pursuit of Happiness

What does it take to be happy?

Nietzsche

Schopenhauer

Montaigne

Seneca

Epicurus

Socrates

Renegade Thinkers
Stranded in Nong Khai over the pandemic, instead of being consumed by the madness around me (madness on the news, madness on social media, madness with people around me), I decided to focus on something productive - listen to podcasts about magnificent lives and see what I could learn from them. It became a fascinating journey and discovery with many lessons I could glean from. Some lessons I've already woven-into my daily yoga practice, most notably, the Wim Hof breathing method.

Renegade-Brilliant Minds

Wim Hof

Edward
Witten

Srinivasa
Ramanujan

Bruce
Lipton

Joe
Dispenza

Mantak
Chia

Deepak
Chopra

Dorian
Yates

Bashar

David Icke

On the Horizon
Usually, at the end of the year, there are looming prospects for the new year. But with all the uncertainties out there, any plan is merely wishful thinking. International borders are still locked for the casual tourist (me), no telling how long Thai Immigration will keep extending the visa exemption (mine ends Dec 30), with the burning season already starting in Chiang Mai, I will have to leave soon, but where?, with my passport expiring in 2021, will I have to leave for the Philippines? The immediate future is too unpredictable it pays to just wing the moment by making sound decisions.

• 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

• 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.

1. North Gate Jazz Coop - at Chang Phueg Gate, great Tuesday jam session, Blues on Sundays at 11pm by the Chiang Mai Blues band
2. Boy Blues Bar - at the Night Bazaar. Mondays at 9:30pm is open mic
3. My Secret Cafe - near Wat Phra Singh. Tuesdays at 7:30pm for the changing front-act and 9:00pm for the Panic Band
4. Taphae East - 88 Thapae Rd. (just north of Night Bazaar). Fridays at 9:30pm by Chiang Mai Blues Band

• 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)
  
  
Transportation
• 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
  
  
Tours
• B2000 full day elephant sanctuary
• B750 Chiang Rai one-day tour
• B1500 mountain biking scenic ride

1. Chiang Mai trains for Bangkok - 2 day trains, 3 night trains, daily schedule
2. Train 14 to Bangkok - departs 5pm daily, arrives BKK 6:15am, 1st class and 2nd class sleeping accomodation, Special Express
3. Chiang Mai trains to other destinations -

1. Check Train Schedule & Fares
2. 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.

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)

1. take the MRT train to Bang Sue Station. Take the #1 Exit to the north provincial trains
2. 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.
3. 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

1. From Loei town center, take a tuk-tuk ride to the bus station, B30. There is only one bus station.
2. 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.
3. 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)
4. Final bus stop is at the Red Bus Arcade, Chiang Mai, 9 hour-trip, arriving 6am (from 9pm Loei departure).
5. 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).

1. Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019 - Oct 10, 2022
2. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
3. Siamaya Chocolates Oct 2, 2022
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4. September Snapshots Sep 30, 2022
5. Carrot Cake Sep 12, 2022
6. Making Coconut Bread Sep 3, 2022
7. August Snapshots Aug 31, 2022
8. Yoga Nidra with Chunyah and Tom Aug 18, 2022
9. Coconut Pancake Aug 11, 2022
10. July Snapshots Jul 31, 2022
11. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
12. Jason, Max and Elizabeth Pizza Nite Jul 28, 2022
13. Yakiniku Dinner with Max and Jason Jul 25, 2022
14. Icebath at Nawa Saraan Jul 6 - Oct 5, 2022
15. June Snapshots Jun 30, 2022
16. Tom, Chunyah and Simona Pizza Nite Jun 23, 2022
17. Yoga Class Pizza Nite Jun 15, 2022
18. Pranayama with Nicha Jun 14, 2022
19. May Snapshots May 31, 2022
20. Lover's Quarrel May 26, 2022
21. Getting Lost on a Hike May 25, 2022
22. Biohacker Meetup at 'Living with The Spirit' May 22, 2022
23. Music and Magic at Paapu House May 5, 2022
24. Breathwork + Icebath @ Alt_Chiangmai II Apr 20, 2022
25. April Chronicles 2022 Apr 30, 2022
26. Tombstone Epitaph Apr 29, 2022
27. Kayaking along the Ping River with the BioHackers Apr 24, 2022
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28. Pizza Nite with Jerry, Paolo and Abby Apr 9, 2022
29. Tom Maher's Muay Thai Fight Apr 8, 2022
30. Breathwork + Icebath @ Alt_Chiangmai Apr 6, 2022
31. Yoga with Leo Apr 5, 2022
32. March Chronicles 2022 Mar 31, 2022
33. Street Photo Mar 31, 2022
34. Peoplescape Mar 31, 2022
35. Chiang Mai's Recovering Music Scene Mar 31, 2022
36. Street Photo Mar 31, 2022
37. Yoga and Fitness Mar 26, 2022
38. Friday Bitcoin Meetups Mar 18, 2022
39. Pizza Nite with Aida and Sophie Mar 14, 2022
40. Pizza Nite with Kevin, Jamie and Kris Mar 10, 2022
41. In Search of Genetic Immortality Mar 5, 2022
42. February Chronicles 2022 Feb 28, 2022
43. Palm-Feeding Wild Birds Feb 26, 2022
44. Cuckoo Feb 16, 2022
45. Tell John Feb 16, 2022
46. Pizza Nite with Kris, Simona and Mary Feb 15, 2022
47. Pizza Nite with the Chiang Mai Boyz Feb 6, 2022
48. Welcoming the New Year Jan 31, 2022
49. January Snapshots Jan 31, 2022
50. ABS Fitness Challenge Jan 16 - Apr 16, 2022
51. Pumpkin Tahini Recipe Jan 3, 2022
52. 2021: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2021
53. Pizza Nite with Simona and Lisa Dec 28, 2021
54. Tahini Salad Dressing Dec 27, 2021
55. Baba Ganoush Recipe Dec 23, 2021
56. 7 Universal Laws Dec 20, 2021
57. Sacred Circuitry Dec 18, 2021
58. Cave-Living in a Boutique Hotel in Chiang Mai Dec 14, 2021
59. Tummo Yoga + Wim Hof Breathing + Full-Body Muscle Contraction Dec 13, 2021
60. Monk Chat Dec 10, 2021
61. Making Tahini and Hummus Dec 8, 2021
62. Watering the Plants Hands-Free Dec 2, 2021
63. Vietnamese Phin Coffee Filter Dec 2, 2021
64. Tummo Yoga Dec 1, 2021
65. The Bliss of Inner Fire: Book Summary/Review Dec 1, 2021
66. The Bliss of Inner Fire: Heart Practice of the Six Yogas of Naropa Dec 1, 2021
67. 'Must Experience' Cafés of Chiang Mai Nov 30, 2021
68. British Hobnob Cookies Nov 22, 2021
69. New York Cheese Cake Nov 22, 2021
70. Dham's Poetry Nov 14, 2021
71. Pizza Nite with Simona and Nat Nov 11, 2021
72. Stepping Forward / Reaching Out Oct 31, 2021
73. Cancel Culture Attack Oct 31, 2021
74. Mantra Primer Oct 29, 2021
75. Spinal Mobility Oct 7, 2021
76. Swedish Cinnamon Rolls [Kanelbullar] Oct 4, 2021
77. Just Bring 2 Chinese Oct 3, 2021
78. Sep Snapshots Sep 31, 2021
79. One-Leg Yoga Asana Sequences Sep 30, 2021
80. Pizza Nite with Nut, Monika and Yuki Sep 27, 2021
81. 23-Minute Ice Bath Sep 27, 2021
82. Pizza Nite with Nut, Simona and Malee Sep 23, 2021
83. Yoga Nidra (yogic sleep) Sep 23, 2021
84. Making Cornbread Sep 15, 2021
85. Kombucha: 2nd Batch Sep 11, 2021
86. Making German Stollen Bread Sep 9, 2021
87. Pizza Nite with Jackson, Goi and Paapu Sep 6, 2021
88. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
89. Making Homemade Kombucha Aug 30, 2021
90. Wrong Question to Ask This Crowd Aug 29, 2021
91. Pizza Nite with Tom, Chunyah and Goi Aug 20, 2021
92. Pizza Nite with Moms and Kids Aug 15, 2021
93. Bahya Kumbhaka (breath-hold on the exhale) Aug 14, 2021
94. Everybody's Only Friend Aug 13, 2021
95. Vanillekipferl (German Vanilla Crescent Cookies) Aug 11, 2021
96. Fighting Infection through Yoga Aug 3, 2021
97. Too Close for Friendship Aug 2, 2021
98. Manifesting: Epicurus' Pursuit Jul 31, 2021
99. Homemade Rum Raisin Ice Cream Jul 30, 2021
100. Ice Bath at Nawa Saraan Healing Space Jul 25, 2021
101. Pizza Nite + Slack Line + Hammock Jul 23, 2021
102. Yin-Yoga & Hypnosis with Christine Thiel Jul 20, 2021
103. Pizza Nite with James and Nat Jul 19, 2021
104. Antara Kumbhaka on Nadi Shodan Pranayama: Yogic Breath-Hold on the Inhale Jul 17, 2021
105. Moving and Cashing-Out Bitcoin Jun 2 - Jul 11, 2021
106. 'The Bow' Yoga Jul 7, 2021
107. Yoga Classes with Calum Mar 27 - Jul 4, 2021
108. Hike to Wat Pa Thammachat Waterfall Jul 2, 2021
109. Pizza Brunch with the Yogis July 1, 2021
110. Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
111. On the Brink of Hunger, the ENABLERS Come to Light Jun 21, 2021
112. Hatha Vinyasa Yoga with Katharine Day Jun 17, 2021
113. Pranayama Basics II Jun 16, 2021
114. 36-Hour Love Life Jun 11, 2021
115. Pranayama Basics I Jun 9, 2021
116. Biohackers Meetup in Chiang Mai Jun 6, 2021
117. Learning How to Breathe Jun 2, 2021
118. Not the Usual Day-to-Day Life May 31, 2021
119. Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
120. Breathwork & Ice Bath with Jason Ryer of Zen Strength May 23, 2021
121. It's Raining Bell Peppers May 7, 2021
122. Yoga Classes with Nana Apr 20, 2021
123. You Want to be Wonder Woman? Apr 8, 2021
124. Kunjal Kriya / Vamana Dhauti (induced vomiting) Apr 1, 2021
125. Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai Jan-Mar 2021
126. Varisara Dhauti (cleansing of the entire digestive tract) Mar 26, 2021
127. Spiritual Backpacker Interview by Napasorn 'Cherry' Suvarnapradip Mar 23, 2021
128. Private One-on-One Yoga Classes with Doriana Feb 17 - Mar 14, 2021
129. Transformational Life Events Mar 13, 2021
130. Guess Who's Coming to Bread Day? Mar 1, 2021
131. Mula Shodhana (anal cleansing) Feb 27, 2021
132. Are You My Queen? Feb 25, 2021
133. Breaking the 5-Minute Breath-hold Barrier Feb 25, 2021
134. Kirtan with Chiang Mai's Khun Thai Seekers Feb 7, 2021
135. Breaking the 4-minute Breath-hold Feb 7, 2021
136. Pranayama Primer Feb 2, 2021
137. Heartbreak in every Song Jan 24, 2021
138. The Silent Killer is Baaack! Jan 12, 2021
139. Learning the Thai Language Jan 9, 2021
140. 2020: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2020
141. Reversing/Slowing Down the Aging Process Dec 30, 2020
142. Hike to Huay Keaw Waterfall Dec 20, 2020
143. Yoga Mat Dec 19, 2020
144. Hiking to Wat Pha Lat along the Monk's Trail Dec 19, 2020
145. Am I Psycho? Dec 9, 2020
146. Muffin Man Dec 8, 2020
147. Polyamory Dec 4, 2020
148. The Wim Hof Ice Bath Dec 3, 2020
149. RSVP Nov 25, 2020
150. High Intensity Interval Yoga (Yoga + HIIT) Nov 14, 2020
151. Cleansing the Nadis (Energy Pathway) Nov 13, 2020
152. Yoga for a 360-degree Core Nov 6, 2020
153. Edward Witten: 'the smartest living physicist' Nov 4, 2020
154. Srinivasa Ramanujan: Mathematician of the Divine Oct 27, 2020
155. Bashar as Channeled by Darryl Anka Oct 26, 2020
156. Vinyasa Krama and Ashtanga Yoga with Aida Yoga Oct 18, 2020
157. Deepak Chopra: author, lecturer, healer Oct 12, 2020
158. Facebook Friends Oct 1, 2020
159. Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug-Sep 2020 Sep 30, 2020
160. Siddhis (yogic super powers) Sep 30, 2020
161. Learning the Import/Export Trade Sep 4, 2020
162. Music and Magic at Justin's Birthday Bash Sep 3, 2020
163. Biggest Stone in his Shoe Sep 1, 2020
164. Abandoned Aug 25, 2020
165. Intelligent Romantic Break-up Aug 25, 2020
166. Dad-Zoned Aug 18, 2020
167. Public Display of Affection Aug 9, 2020
168. Gabriella's Birthday Bash at Mothership Resort Aug 8-9, 2020
169. Shifting Peoplescape of Chiang Mai July 31, 2020
170. Yoga Class for Strength and Muscle Jul 30, 2020
171. Yoga Class for Optimum Digestion July 29, 2020
172. Yoga Class for Healthy Eyes Jul 27, 2020
173. Hippie Night at Nawa Saraan Healing Space July 24, 2020
174. The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
175. Prana Vayu Adhitthana Yoga Class July 11-12, 2020
176. Coming Back to Chiang Mai Jun 29, 2020
177. Goodbye Chiang Mai Jan 23, 2020
178. Prasnopanishad: Understanding Prana Jan 17, 2020
179. Hiking the Monk's Trail Jan 15, 2020
180. Chaturanga Jan 10, 2020
181. You Spooned Me Jan 3, 2020
182. 2019: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2019
183. Friends, Coffeemates and Breadmates (Dec 2019) Dec 31, 2019
184. Visiting Mae Sot Dec 27-30, 2019
185. Let's Make it About You - an Epiphany Dec 17, 2019
186. Shut-Up! Dec 7, 2019
187. Roasted Red Bell Pepper Puree Dec 3, 2019
188. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Nov 2019) Nov 30, 2019
189. Bhujangini Mudra Nov 25, 2019
190. Mathangini Mudra Nov 24, 2019
191. Kaka Mudra Nov 23, 2019
192. Pasini Mudra Nov 20, 2019
193. Aswini Mudra Nov 18, 2019
194. Sambhavi Mudra Nov 16, 2019
195. Manduka Mudra Nov 15, 2019
196. Tataka Mudra Nov 14, 2019
197. Sakti Calana Mudra Nov 10, 2019
198. Vajroli Mudra Nov 9, 2019
199. Coffeemates and Breadmates (Oct 2019) Oct to Nov 5, 2019
200. Yoni Mudra Nov 1, 2019
201. Viparita Karani Mudra Oct 31, 2019
202. Khecari Mudra Oct 30, 2019
203. Mahadeva Mudra Oct 28, 2019
204. Sacred Cacao - Chakra Dance Journey Oct 26, 2019
205. Partner Healing with Natascha Oct 24, 2019
206. Maha Bandha Mudra Oct 24, 2019
207. Point-Of-Failure Birthday Workout Oct 22, 2019
208. Mula Bandha Mudra Oct 21, 2019
209. Hugfest at Thapae Gate, Chiang Mai Oct 19, 2019
210. Anushasan Mudra Oct 18, 2019
211. Ling Mudra Oct 17, 2019
212. Jalandhara Bandha Mudra Oct 15, 2019
213. Learning Thai with Cee Oct 13, 2019
214. Uddiyana Bandha Mudra Oct 10, 2019
215. Nabho Mudra Oct 9, 2019
216. Maha Mudra Oct 7, 2019
217. 20 Essential Mudras by T. Krishnamacharya Oct. 6, 2019
218. Mindfulness Gong Bath by Vee (Veerayuth Pongsiri) Oct 3, 2019
219. Cuddle Party by Abundant Love CM Oct 1, 2019
220. Vayu Mudra Oct 1, 2019
221. Visa-Run to Tachileik, Myanmar Sep 28, 2019
222. Sankalpa Mudra Sep 27, 2019
223. Surya Pradarshini Mudra Sep 26, 2019
224. Eye-Gazing at Heart Space Sep 20, 2019
225. Prana Vayu (Pranic Wind) Sep 20, 2019
226. 2-Week Yoga Challenge by Agnese Erba Sep 17, 2019
227. The Mudra Project Sep 13, 2019
228. Sunday Vinyasa Flow with Marina Forster Sep 8, 2019
229. Shamanic Breathwork by Rachel Constantino Sep 4, 2019
230. The Conscious Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Aug 31, 2019
231. Of Winos and Yogis Aug 26, 2019
232. The 9 Jhanas of Buddha Aug 22, 2019
233. Full Moon Ceremony at Heart Space Aug 15, 2019
234. Yin Yoga - Water Element by Martina Barabas Aug 15, 2019
235. Hatha Mix Yoga with Christin Aug 13, 2019
236. Boy Blues Bar Rocks Chiang Mai Aug 5, 2019
237. Back to my Beloved Chiang Mai Aug 1, 2019
238. Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
239. Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
240. Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
241. Secret Sunrise: Water July 3, 2019
242. Hotel Review: Arun Suite June 27, 2019
243. Bruce Lipton: Epigentics to Transcend Genes June 24, 2019
244. Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
245. Connective Cacao and Sound Journey June 12, 2019
246. Chiangmai BLUES June 6, 2019
247. Hatha Slow Flow with Neil Jefferson June 3, 2019
248. Meditating with One Million Meditators Movement June 1, 2019
249. Vinyasa Happy Flow Series by Vaida May 31, 2019
250. Muay Thai at the Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium May 30, 2019
251. Yoga Flow Through the 7 Chakras by Sabrina Pilz May 30, 2019
252. The Outsiders (people you need to push out of your sacred circle) May 31, 2019
253. Fascinating Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 22, 2019
254. World Meditation Day at Heart Space May 21, 2019
255. Abs Yoga by Gigit May 12, 2019
256. Kundalini and Vinyasa Yoga with Nicola Symons May 10, 2019
257. Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
258. Tok Sen Massage from Ying May 8, 2019
259. Bruschetta: Nawa Saraan Style Apr 22, 2019
260. Thai Cooking at Pra Nang Thai Cookery School Apr 20, 2019
261. Bonding with the Elephants in Chiang Mai Apr 11, 2019
262. Ziplining in Chiang Mai with Eagle Track Zipline Apr 10, 2019
263. Getting Thai Massage from Chiang Mai's Best (Lar Thanakrit Khamtanong) Mar 21, 2019
264. Being the Soul of Nawa Saraan Hotel Mar 18, 2019
265. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019
266. Curing Cancer with Yoga? Feb 21, 2019
267. International Training Massage School (ITM): Level 1 Feb 11-15, 2019
268. Sandesch Album Launch by Christoph Joerg Feb 13, 2019
269. Meditation in a Sensory Deprivation Tank at Float Chiang Mai Jan 29, 2019
270. Reiki Share at the Mastermind Brain Spa Jan 26, 2019
271. Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
272. 4 Days in Chiang Mai at Nawa Saraan Hotel Jan 2-6, 2019
273. Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
274. An Intimate Conversation with my Universe in Chiang Mai Aug 8, 2018
275. Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
276. Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
277. Yoga Exploration at The Yoga Tree with Gernot Aug 1, 2018
278. Laughter Yoga with Saffiya Arnous July 31, 2018
279. Yoga with Adam at Hidden House Yoga, Chiang Mai July 29, 2018
280. 2 Weeks in Chiang Mai July 25 - Aug 7, 2018
281. A First Timer in Chiang Mai Apr 9-23, 2016
282. Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016
283. Dance Mandala in Chiang Mai at The Yoga Tree Apr 19, 2016
284. Songkran Waterfight Festival in Chiang Mai Apr 13-15, 2016
285. Border Crossing from Siem Reap (Cambodia) to Bangkok (Thailand) to Chiang Mai April 9-10, 2016

This process is BEFORE Covid 19. Not sure what it is now.

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.

1. 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
2. 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!
3. NOTE: after 2 successful attempts, I was already questioned the 3rd time.

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.

1. 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
2. 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
3. when your number is called, your picture will be taken. Then go back to your seat. They will call you again.
4. when they call you again, they'll give you your passport with your extended visa. That's it!
5. when there are no lines, the whole process can take only 10 minutes

Book Train Tickets in Thailand Online by Train36.com

1. 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.)
2. 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
3. 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.
4. 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!