Immigration There was already talk that with the easing up of global Covid restrictions, the Covid tourist visa extension in Thailand has come to an end. I found this out when I went for my extension. They said they'll give me the last extension, and I have to leave the country. This doesn't come as a surprise - I've already seen this coming, and have already prepared my mind for the coming changes. Things however, took a bizarre twist when Mike intervened.
Nawa Saraan Hotel, my beloved home for the last 3 years. Amusing that I still have my Buddha-bun in this pic.
Money With my latest 'big' project in place, I thought money would be coming in. But no. Still khai soi money at best. Money from my Saturday yoga class puts food on my table. I wonder how this unfolds. Worse case, I'll end up in my next destination with no cash and no online money. Oh well, the universe has always provided (granting that I continue to perform due-diligence).
Guardian Deities The attack by the 'woke' community 5 months ago still leaves simmering anger if I don't catch myself early enough. I have since veered away from woke people and moved out of their 'castle in the air' - which in looking back was really a petri dish.
In researching about the travails of the Tibetan sage Milarepa, there was an episode he was roughed-up by hunters while he was meditating in his cave. For this atrocity, his guardian deities took retribution - it was harsh and swift. Justice was served.
While Í've always felt my connection to the bigger forces at play to look after my well-being, I never asked them for anything self-serving - except now. So far, they have given me everything I asked for (except a Lamborghini Diablo...seriously). Now, I asked that those perpetrators be held accountable. I too, want justice - in any way, shape and form.
It helps that I passed the burden to them. Let them take care of that business. I no longer want to be saddled by that - it's too taxing, even with awareness. People who do wrong things should be held accountable for their malicious and irresponsible actions.
I speculate that people nursing a trauma history, those who carry a mental imbalance or emotional disturbance, develop a deep-seated animosity to anyone who got his shit all figured out - especially if he's not 'humble' about it, like making bold remarks like, "I am the perfect embodiment of my practice". Well, that's me. I've made that remark a few times and offer no apology for doing so. I don't flaunt anything when I say it - I simply state a fact which of course, has my bias. I think it's pretentious for people to default into self-deprecating modesty by downplaying something utterly obvious. Example? Models paid handsomely to have their faces grace a magazine cover - and say that they are 'not beautiful' in an interview. Or people who parade their high-zoot cars and when asked about their wealth, say they 'poor'.
I've met some people who simply admit their life of privilege as a matter of fact - no braggadocio, no false modesty, no pretension. I found it refreshing and authentic.
Peoplescape With the void created when I walked away from the previous tribe, new energies have come to fill it up - Jason, Kevin and Chiang Mai's biohackers, and Simona's fitness crew, Bill / Pam(who used to be my neighbors from across the street), Zane and Mary(whom I met at My Secret Cafe). I sense the sharp contrast - these new people don't invoke spirituality in every sentence - but they have a strong sense of right and wrong. Let us just say that they are spiritual in their pragmatic ways which I find more real and unpretentious.
Although not as often as before, I invite these new energies for coffee either at my place or at My Moka Coffee. Pizza Nite is another occasion to bring good energies together. I hosted an all-male pizza nite(Jason, Kevin and Calum) and another one with Simona, Mary and Kris. Pizza Nite is pure fun.
coffee and bread at Nawa Saraan Hotel with Mary, Zane, Amphika and Jason
Mike Mike to the Rescue But in a surprising twist of fate, Mike intervened to give me another 2 months' extension (yes, he pulled a rabbit out of a hat). I thought it would be a relief for him if I leave since I would no longer pose a Covid-threat to his family and staff (as I refuse to be vaccinated). But he clarified that he wanted me vaccinated because he didn't want me to die - I was taken aback and quite honestly, moved.
At any rate, with my gratitude, I told him I would not opt for another extension when this visa expires. I'll let the wind take me where it wants to take me.
The Wise Man I seem to be playing this role of a wise man lately - make that an old wise man. An acquaintance asked to meet me for coffee, "I want your perspective on something". He explained his moral conundrum. He sounded lost and confused, but after hearing him out, his situation was text-book case to me. I explained my assessment to which he found logic. Increasingly, I see situations with clarity - almost black and white, while they only see varying shades of gray and uncertainty. Another new acquaintance messaged me saying, "I'm keen to see whether you could help me achieve some of my goals here in Chiang Mai. Do you have time to meet for a coffee? I think you have strong manifestation abilities and a fair degree of life wisdom." Some wanted my company for comfort during troubled times, but in subtle ways (but I get it just the same).
Ironically, I find myself in situations where I was not able to see my own situation with the same clarity until it explodes in my face. On another hand, as I make myself available to friends, I had no one to take refuge to when I was attacked. I had to endure everything. Not that I needed it, but having someone to default to would have meant the world during those turbulent times. Mike was there, but I didn't want to burden him unless my life depended on it. Oh well, that's life.
Scary Smart e-Books Kevin (of Biohackers), posted the Scary Smart site where e-books could be downloaded. Without missing a beat, I searched for my long-sought-after book, Krishnamacharya: His Life And Teachings, and downloaded it. I devoured every page of it and continue to summarize every chapter plus developing an embedded Google Map of his essential destinations.
Bflix(dot)ru A lovely lady I met at My Secret Cafe shared me the site, bflix.ru, where I could stream high definition first-rate movies for free! A few pop-ups had to be hurdled but it's a small price of admission. Just awesome!
Not only did I source the classic The Godfather, but I sourced The Godfather Saga - a compilation of Godfather I & II, in chronological sequence, including deleted scenes. It was over 7 hours long!
I also binge-watched the entire Queen's Gambit tv series. Like The Godfather, I thought this film was perfect. I couldn't find any flaw.
Moreover, I watched some old episodes I haven't seen of Sons of Anarchy. I am still wondering why Charlie Hunnam(who magnificently played Jax Teller) seems to have disappeared after this series. I thought he would be the next James Dean and be the heir apparent as the incarnated box-office rebel hero.
I am just in heaven with this treasure trove.
Ending Thoughts My 2-month extension changes many things. Perhaps there is an underlying reason for this, as things seem to shape up. At any rate, with my frequent participation in yoga and body combat at one nimman, meeting new people who seem to be more grounded, the horizon seems to be looming up to a broader span.
(Mar 3, 2022) This documentary took a snippet from the ongoing bloody Civil War and Lincoln's resolve to abolish slavery permanently by passing into law, the 13th Amendment to the constitution. Lincoln was depicted as a man of moral fortitude, a man of resolve, a clever strategist, a husband and a father.....more »»
(Mar 5, 2022) My neighbor cares for her plants - she waters them regularly, and now they are tall and flowering. BUT, the plants chose to reach over to my side of the fence to bloom their flowers. The seeds will fall and germinate on my side of the fence. Their genetic immortality is assured, but perhaps in a more nurturing environment...more »»
(Mar 31, 2022) With my decision not to extend anymore in Thailand, March is all about tying up loose ends. There is a heightened sense of urgency and intentional walk-away from promising things whose fruition lies beyond my timeline. Still, life offers a continuing stream of opportunities with people and events - from those who are likewise on departure mode...more »»
(Mar 31, 2022) As my departure came closer, more people seemed to crowd into my peoplescape, mostly from the breathwork biohacker community, one nimman yoga community, crypto community. Some of them mature, carrying with them knowledge, life experience and insight - wonderful people I wish I met sooner.....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
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
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
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).
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
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!