May 31, 2021

Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai

Location : Nawa Saraan Healing Space, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Another Covid Wave
Another wave of Covid hit the world and Chiang Mai wasn't spared. Bars were closed and live music died. Friends who were supposed to come back to Chiang Mai now that the burning season is over, decided to stay put in the islands. Towards late April, the situation worsened with an imposition of Baht 20k penalty for not wearing a mask. The vacuum was slowly filled in by new exciting friendships that were just around the bend.

Coffeemates, Breadmates and Yogamates in Chiang Mai

"strangers are friends you haven't met yet" -- read at a backpacker hostel

Mike Singapore
Mike prizes his koi fishes at Nawa Saraan. He took care of them as babies. Now, they have grown to 18-inch adults. I feed them daily and have taken to them as my 'pets'. In an attempt to clean the pond and provide a clean environment to these lovely koi, I ended up killing all of them - moved them to a container not big enough with not enough air. Mike said nothing but sent 2 emoticons which says a lot:

The pond was cleaned and equipped with better filters. In place of the 21 dead koi are 25 baby koi (22 as of this writing). I hope they grow up healthy and happy. I also hope it makes Mike happy.

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

Alan & Nicola South Africa
Alan: +❤ HeartMath SA | Ecstatic Dance
Nicola: Nicola Symons Yoga
I missed them while they were away for the burning season. Upon their return, it was back to our Wednesday bread-and-coffee ritual (from the regular Mondays). But that again was cut short by the Covid-scare and other allergy-related issues.

When we get together, we spontaneously flow into our tribal rhythm which takes the conversation wherever, without having to walk on egg shells or thread on thin ice. In these fear-based times when many disturbed people walk amongst us, it's always reassuring to know I am with good people I don't have to walk on a minefield with.

If we don't get to hang out due to uncertainties and threatening Covid lockdowns, there's always Messenger.

resuming Wednesday bread-and-coffee ritual with Alan and Nicola

Alan and Nicola blogs:

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
2020: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2020
Shifting Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai July 2020
The Podcast Series: Alan "Heart Math" Strydom Jul 17, 2020
Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
Fascinating Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai II May 22, 2019
Kundalini and Vinyasa Yoga with Nicola Symons May 10, 2019
Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019

Oy Thailand
What a sweet soul! Sure, she's charming and beautiful, but her sweetness transcends everything. I first met Oy at Ajarn Tom's reiki talk at Rad Rabbit. It helped that we already have Cherry's conscious community as a common tribe. It was a very short hi-hello and I thought it would be the end of it. But I accidentally bumped into her at Jing Jai Market. We shared more pleasantries. This was followed by coffee and bread at Nawa Saraan where we traded more stories. She's done traveling Europe and now works both as an English and Thai teacher at Chiang Mai's prestigious university. We have many things in common - growing up feeling outside-looking-in, walking away from the social template, and pursuing a spiritual path in a sensible way - no spiritual psycho-babble. She has authenticity to her and she grows on you. Her demeanor and spontaneous verbal snippets already say a lot about her grounding.

We met again a few more times and compared notes with our energy development - some unsettling and counter-intuitive (body tremors, body tingling sensations, nightmares). But research maintains it's part of an evolving process. The pasture remains green with Oy.

trading life stories and insight with Oy

Oy blogs:

Continuing Friendships In Chiang Mai Jun 30, 2021
Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021

Phu Khao USA
I am fit and he is older than me, but he puts my fitness to shame. He has the agility, mobility and strength of a ninja. He is inspiring. I've met many fit people but rarely do I see someone who takes fitness at the level and devotion he takes it. Whenever we see each other at the park, we lose ourselves in conversation about fitness and health - while squatting or hanging! We bounce off each other's techniques and share what we know. I've learned a few helpful moves from him.

Phu Khao blogs:

Welcoming the New Year Jan 31, 2022
Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021

coffee and bread with Phu Khao at Nawa Saraan for the first time

Brit United Kingdom
We don't hang out much, and friendly conversation morphs into an uncomfortable debate or argument - not exactly my cup of tea. Something I would best avoid. I like her and enjoy her company, but I don't like walking on egg shells. But since we both move within the limited circle of our community, we bump into each other. Invariably though, we default to coffee and bread at Nawa Saraan (to conserve my limited cash).

In one of our arguments, I had to be more transparent to be understood. And surprisingly, that transparency cleared some of the misconceptions. She somehow loosened-up as though we've just bonded. It felt like we both dived deeper into ourselves and came out the other side, baptized and cleansed. At the end of the coffee talk, we were hugging and giving each other a peck on the cheek (not in any way romantic or sexual) - just 2 acquainted people who perhaps found the beginning of a promising friendship.

What followed was a pizza night with wine, a dip in the pool and home-cooked dinner at her place. I enjoy the moments as they happen and the looming horizon seems fertile. And yes, the arguments seem to have ceased as though they were just rites of passage.

Brit blogs:

Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021
Shifting Peoplescape of Chiang Mai July 31, 2020

Kiwi New Zealand
Self-assured and combative - yes, that's her. We agree on a lot of things, but the one thing we disagree on (which I consider a matter of semantics, petty and a deal-breaker), stick out like a sore thumb - like a fly that landed on your meal. Do you skip the meal altogether?

On one such conversation, I got so fired up, I was telling her the processes currently taking place within me - that my reptilian brain (survival part of the brain) was circling the wagons to do battle against the barbarians at the gate while on the other hand, my prefrontal cortex (the rational part of the brain that factors-in long-term consequences) was explaining that she is a wonderful person if I step back and look at the bigger picture, that the combative situation was simply my buttons being triggered. At one point, we came to a one-minute stare-down - each looking intensely at the other without saying one word. She was smiling the entire time (not really in a friendly way, but more like saying, "I got you wrapped up"). My knee-jerk reaction was really to just bolt-out, but my rational sense was saying I was just going through a good exercise. In the end, we hugged tight for a long time, as if to say, "it was good getting to know you better".

I have to give credit to her - she's very good with her words and knows exactly what to throw at you. As a therapist, that's what she has been doing for decades. I somehow feel that she defaulted into therapist mode and treated that episode as another "counseling".

In hindsight, I suspect that that was her way to breach a dividing wall so that we can take the friendship at a deeper level - a sort of bonding ritual. I've had 2 such episodes in the past - acquaintances who "induced friendship" by riling you up and shaking you down.

This would be similar to what I heard about the Irish. If 2 Irish guys are hitting it off as good friends, they have to fight to fortify the bonds of a looming friendship.

Malee Thailand
I met Malee and Pang at Sapparos for the vegan weekly meetups.

Malee is irreverent and transparent - you don't need a fine print nor read between the lines. But she does it without being confrontational - she means no harm and simply speaks her mind. She doesn't ruffle feathers and people positively take her for her transparency. I like that.

Of course, I had to invite both of them for coffee and bread. We talked about travel, love life, career and what's on the looming horizon. They both look beyond their culture and upbringing, and see the bigger stage 'out there'.

Malee blogs:

Pizza Nite with Nut, Simona and Malee Sep 23, 2021
Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021

Pang Thailand
I met Pang at Sapparos for the vegan weekly meetups together with Malee. During the group conversation, Pang was mostly listening and laughing together with the rest of us, but if something was said that didn't sit well with her, she asserts her point. But she does it without being confrontational. She remains pleasant and smiling, and the conversation continues humming smoothly without any agitation. In short, she makes her point when she needs to, without rubbing anyone the wrong way. I like that. I'd like to learn that! Everyone has an opinion, but to "keep the peace", most would rather keep it to themselves - I can't do that. Oftentimes, I am argumentative when opinions differ, leading to unpleasantness and outright un-friending. Pang shows how it's done without rocking the boat.

good food, artisan coffee and fun moments with Malee and Pang

Yolande Australia
Hart Coded
Yolande somehow stands out in a crowd. Intelligent, charming, sophisticated, pro-active and yes, a presence. We met through a friend and kept bumping into each other. She was my coffee guest twice and I was her guest twice as well. We do share many things in common at a substantive intellectual and spiritual depth. Blues at Paapu House, brunch at Fern Forest Cafe, procuring 'hua-kati' (fresh coconut cream) at the local market, or pool-side dinner, the horizon looms broad and colorful with Yolande.

at Fern Forest Cafe where Yolande lavished me with the house specialty

Joanne Philippines
@inhaledeeplyexhalefully
Joanne is perhaps one who is most comfortable with me. She would unexpectedly pop-up and join me for my Blues night, dance with me or invite me to a hike. She might just give me a hug or even a peck on the cheek, and there's nothing romantic or sexual about it - it's just Joanne expressing a friendly affection.

She teaches yoga and I see her put effort in leveling-up her practice, and more importantly, adopting the lessons to enhance her day-to-day life. In short, her yoga extends beyond the mat. Like Tom, I can feel her progression and refinement with her continuing classes.

on a hike with Joanne to Wat Pha Lat and meeting David at the temple

James United Kingdom
JammyJamesss
I hardly saw James this season - maybe once or twice. His youthful energy is always appreciated. He's the only grown-up I can be at play with like a kid - because he's a kid too trapped in a grown-up body.

James blogs:

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

Sarah Thailand
Vegan Society
I already liked Sarah before I even met her. On one of the discussion threads where a common friend, Aman was there, she remarked, "Why even bother hanging out with Aman when you can hang out here with me?" Of course, it was just in jest, but still, I loved the humor and irreverence. She'd be the typical one who'll remark, "The emperor has no clothes!" Definitely a coffee-and-bread gathering material! Sarah is fun, authentic, will say it like it is, and won't take shit. I like all of that!

fun times with Handstand James and Sarah

Tom USA
Tom Maher
Tom and I don't really hang out much, but it's always quality time when we do. With Yoga in the Park and One Nimman Yoga closed for Covid, I miss his Ashtanga/Vinyasa yoga classes. I would say Tom is the 'most improved' yoga teacher I've met to date. I was there during his first yoga class just a few months ago, and compared to how he teaches now, he has gone leaps and bounds. I've seen this in teachers who know the boundaries, but don't restrict themselves to it. They respect tradition, but they are also open to organic growth as they intuitively deepen their practice.

It's uncanny that I talked (nothing written) to Tom about this travel adventurer who explored unbeaten paths in search of fabled lands (e.g. Shambala, giant Buddha stone carvings, etc.). Next thing, it popped-up on his feed! I begin to suspect there is technology out there that remains unknown to the mainstream.

anything under the sun is fair game to talk about, with Tom

Tom blogs:

2022: A Year in Review Dec 31, 2022
Chiang Mai Peoplescape Oct 10, 2022
Yoga Nidra with Chunyah and Tom Aug 18, 2022
Chiang Mai Peoplescape Jul 31, 2022
Tom Maher's Muay Thai Fight Apr 8, 2022
Pizza Nite with Tom, Chunyah and Goi Aug 20, 2021
Morphing Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 31, 2021

Christine Germany
Christine was gone for a good 3 months due to the burning season and Covid scare. But in fairness, life on the islands wasn't that bad either - sea, sun, nature and perhaps a tribe. It was already late May when she came back. I missed her despite having many acquaintances and strong connections here in Chiang Mai. Christine would have to be one of a rare few I'd have a disarmed comfort level with. Yes, it was nice to have her back. We picked-up where our friendship left off as though it was just yesterday.

Christine claimed my seafood pizza and mango dessert was FAB. But so was her salad!

Christine blogs:

Chiang Mai Peoplescape Aug 31, 2021
Yin-Yoga & Hypnosis with Christine Thiel Jul 20, 2021
Pizza Brunch with the Yogis July 1, 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
2020: A Year In Review Dec 31, 2020
Shifting Peoplescape Of Chiang Mai July 2020
Friends, Coffeemates And Breadmates Dec 31, 2019

Ending Thoughts
It wasn't all bed of roses with my peoplescape. I've met a deeply disturbed individual, but I was quick to leave that scene. More importantly, I'm grateful for these wonderful souls within my orbit. Some will leave, some will stay a little longer, or I might not get my visa extension and be forced to leave Thailand - more reason to celebrate the magical moments while they last.

Again, I have to take stock of my blessings - staying in a boutique hotel where the owner won't take my money, a garden environment to welcome my friends, a bakery/cafe to do my alchemy, and the privilege of calling Chiang Mai home. For a guy with no money, I am rich with all my blessings. For a guy estranged from his family, I have a tribe. For a guy with no home, I live in a boutique hotel where the owner won't take what limited money I can offer. no permanent home, no property and not too young,

--- Gigit (TheLoneRider)
YOGA by Gigit | Learn English | Travel like a Nomad | Donation Bank

Not the Usual Day-to-Day Life

(May 31, 2021) After 2 years staying at Nawa Saraan in Chiang Mai, I have developed my daily routine. But every once in a while, something out of the usual happens.....more »»

Next Peoplescape story:

Continuing Friendships in Chiang Mai

(Jun 30, 2021) New faces, familiar faces, continuing friendships, building bridges, setting up boundaries, promising beginnings, dead ends, my shifting peoplescape in Chiang Mai. A continuing (monthly?) narrative of who and what matters...more »»

Chiang Mai INFORMATION

Chiang Mai Map

Chiang Mai, Thailand

IMPORTANT PLACES

Bus Station

Train Station

Chiang Mai International Airport

Nong Buak Hard Park - free yoga classes daily

HOTEL

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

RESTAURANT

La Pizza Chiang Mai - Italian pizza, pasta, wine, dessert, coffee

Natural Bird Nest by Burapa - authentic bird's nest soup

WELLNESS

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

MOTORBIKE RENTAL

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)

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

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
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
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.

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 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.

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.

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

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!

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