Chiang Mai Peoplescape

Mike

Mike
With my scheduled departure from Thailand, Mike went out of his way to make my transition easier. He took me to Immigration to get my residency certification in order (took care of the expenses too), replaced my old phone (which also came from him) with a brand new Redmi 10 5G + SIM card + load, wireless Bluetooth speakers, 2 pairs of running shoes, t-shirts, etc. Yes, Christmas came early for me from a Santa named MIKE. He paved the way for me to get a Thai international debit card as a replacement to my dying Canadian credit card. On my last night, he invited me out for a few drinks. He even drove me all the way to the train station. How do I say 'thank you' to all of that?

It won't be soon until I find another guy like Mike. Thanks Mike, you'll always be DA MAN!

...the last toast with Mike

Elizabeth

Elizabeth
Elizabeth is my goodbye-girl. She's said goodbye so many times until she comes back again to Chiang Mai. But this time, it seems for real. She's going to Bali (Indonesia) and I'm packing up for my Thailand departure - Covid visa is no longer available. Even when she comes back, I'm unlikely to be here. Given the sense of urgency, we hangout whenever we can - Tuesday nights at My Secret Cafe where I walk her up to Thapae Gate on her way home, yoga at 1 Nimman, coffee at My Moka, Thursday nights at Paapu House, chill moments at my place, or even just hanging out at a park bench. She gifted me a Siamaya Durian chocolate bar and that resulted in a barter deal with Siamaya Chocolate.

Given our increasing closeness, people think there's something going on between us - but really, it's just friendship. She feels like a well-worn glove that fits just perfectly.

Elizabeth and I stopping by MUG for a coldie and some music

Tom & Chunyah

Tom & Chunyah
Tom & Chunyah have remained an integral part of my Chiang Mai peoplescape up until my departure. They were the 'usual suspects' in my Wednesday icebaths. They would be the familiar faces across the coffee table at My Moka after the icebath. I would see them both for yoga at 1 Nimman from time to time. When they hosted a gender party for their 'soon to be born', I was invited to join the gathering. When they expressed interest in the hotel where I was staying, I arranged a meeting between them and the owner. When Tom's folks visited Chiang Mai, I was invited to an intimate dinner with them. Even when I'm out of Thailand, I know the bond will remain.

with Tom & Chunyah at the Wednesday Icebath

Simona

Simona
Simona is back in Chiang Mai from a few months in the islands. She's the only one who calls me to say 'Hi' even after emphatically asking her to only call me during an emergency. Moreover, she would even call me on a Wednesday afternoon after telling her I have to get my sleep Wednesday afternoons. But that's Simona. She can get away with it...and she keeps her standing on my short list. Often, we would chill at my place for coffee, bread or pancake while she's waiting for her son to finish some sports activities close by. I'd often bump into her at 1 Nimman yoga and body combat. Sometimes, we go out for coffee elsewhere for a change in scenery. She's my go-to person for a few things - she's reliable and grounded. It's good to have friends like her.

Simona, just in time for my coconut pancake

Susan and Patrick

Susan and Patrick
Susan and I got into a conversation after a yoga class at 1 Nimman. She thought it would be a good idea if I meet her husband-writer Patrick. They are of my age and I thought it would be good to explore a possible friendship looming on the horizon. We met for Pad Thai at my fav alfresco nook, Ran Joke Pa Lek. It was an engaging conversation mostly about Buddhism, spirituality and life. They'd been together 45 years and they're still vibrant together. I could not discern if their edgy repartee was affectionate banter or a prelude to a quarrel, but they seem to relish on it. I wish I met them earlier.

What's good about people my age is that they have life experience, wisdom and they are grounded. We don't have to explain too much about certain things because we all get it already. And for that matter, I wish I spent my time in Chiang Mai with older (my age) and wiser people who have a firm foundation who have a meaningful story to tell.

In contrast, I've had my share of flaky millenials, deeply disturbed 'conscious' healers, volatile wokes, and young people of questionable mental stability. Looking back, I shake my head thinking, "What the heck was I doing in that petri dish?"

Pad Thai with Susan and Patrick at Ran Joke Pa Lek

Keith

Keith
Keith is a character. He only attended 2 of my yoga classes but we spent time talking and sharing when off the mat. At 69, he's seen them all...the good, the bad and the ugly. And perhaps learned from them all. But unlike some senior folks I know who became jaded with life, Keith, perhaps due to his meditation background, saw the underlying intelligence behind all things, action and events. It's simply life unraveling the way it was meant to...and not a personal afront against him. Keith is good energy, a happy guy, spritely and perhaps magnanimous to a fault. But that's his charm too.

Returning the Buddha
Claim to fame? Keith sourced the origin of a stolen Buddha through some crafty detective work until he finally met the thieves and had the Buddha returned to its rightful temple in Laos. In the process of knowing the history and tradition of Buddha carving, he is probably one of the experts in the field today. He even wrote a book about his Buddha sleuthing adventure. For that 'right action', I'm sure he garnered a lot of merits to skip a few rebirths.

Keith in a yoga class with me

Keith Quotes:

1. Let us be grateful for what is left
   We were talking about the gradual erasure of everything that has come before simply through the passage of time. Since Keith and I are no longer spring chickens, we relish the good things from back in our day that still remains today.
2. Make the fuckín' sandwich
   Used now as a metaphor to 'do the actual work', it was really said by a teacher who received a lot of donation when an article was written about her for making free sandwiches for her poor students. She viewed the donations as a cop-out for using money as a substitute for making the actual work, so she returned all monies and simply said, "make the fuckin' sandwich".
   
   Someone approached me once wanting to have a strong physical heart through yoga because cardiac arrest runs in his family. I suggested a fusion of cardiovascular training (HIIT) together with pranayama and meditation. He wanted only pranayama (breathing) because he didn't want to do the more difficult job of doing the actual workout. I should have told him, "make the fuckin' sandwich".

Movie Night Group

Movie Night Group
Movie Night is an offshoot of the Biohacker group who wanted a more intimate gathering of mems who resonate. It's a monthly viewing at Paolo/Abby's place with their 80" tv screen (almost as big as the wall). It kicked off back in June 4 with Mulan as the pilot movie. Next movie was the Great Lebowski. This movie got critical acclaim so it must have been a great movie - but it didn't make sense to me, so I'll just say, 'I don't get it'. August movie was Captain Fantastic, but the conscious-talk lasted until late and everybody decided to just skip the movie and continue the conversation. It didn't help that I arrived late even though I was at the lobby almost on time. The food sharing was great as well. In short, it was a movie night that was long on food, conversation, sharing and bonding...but no movie - it's like going to an orgy and no one got laid. I'm ok with that as well. Movies I can see in the privacy of my room. But being in the company of amazing people you are comfortable with? Priceless!

Light Consciousness Group

Light Consciousness Group
This group was formed by the same couple, Paolo and Abby, who formed the Movie Night Group. The members are essentially the same people from the Movie Night and some mems of Biohacker community. The Biohacker group used to be exclusive to nootropics, gadgets, equipment and wellness protocols. Now, with the addition of Paolo, Abby and Michael, a new spiritual niche is forming. Talks range outside human perception - mysticism, transcendence, different dimensions, esoteric entities, etc.

I've only attended one meeting and had to leave the group soon after. Why? Paolo even echoed my increasing sentiment about spirituality talks and groups. Paolo is the go-to guy for spiritual knowledge. Not very many people can say that they have read 34 boxes of books devoted to the subject matter. With his wealth of knowledge, he said that everything he has learned, no matter how disparate, however conflicting with other teachings, invariably lead to the same goal. What goal? It comes with many names - self-realization, enlightenment, pure consciousness, divine oneness, etc.

My analogy to all these different teachings would be different names to different bodies of water - rivers, streams, canals, tributaties, etc. No matter where they started, no matter how large a volume of water they carry, no matter how fast the water flows...they all invariably empty into the ocean.

For all intents and purposes, I have already found my river - yoga. I am familiar with it and I'm already invested in it for many years. I'll just keep swimming in this river until it takes me where I need to be taken. I'm already self-contained with all the writings of ascendant masters, gurus and rishis. My river is already unfathomable the way it is. I can remain here and take it deeper instead of spreading myself thinner.

In short, I don't have to swim all the rivers, I don't need to ingest 34 boxes of books devoted to other branches of spirituality, and I don't have to join any spiritual group or belong to any spiritual tribe. I don't need to be elsewhere.

As for Paolo and Abby? Bless them for spreading the good word. May their selfless efforts in expanding awareness catalyze this swelling tide into a shift in consciousness.

• 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
[an error occurred while processing this directive]
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
[an error occurred while processing this directive]
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. Wicked Game: Anger and Pain August 19, 2019
234. Full Moon Ceremony at Heart Space Aug 15, 2019
235. Yin Yoga - Water Element by Martina Barabas Aug 15, 2019
236. Hatha Mix Yoga with Christin Aug 13, 2019
237. Boy Blues Bar Rocks Chiang Mai Aug 5, 2019
238. Back to my Beloved Chiang Mai Aug 1, 2019
239. Kaleidoscope of Chiang Mai's Peoplescape July 27, 2019
240. Secret Sunrise: Nelson Mandela International Day July 17, 2019
241. Farewell Picnic with Alan and Nicola July 15, 2019
242. Secret Sunrise: Water July 3, 2019
243. Hotel Review: Arun Suite June 27, 2019
244. Bruce Lipton: Epigentics to Transcend Genes June 24, 2019
245. Optimizing Life thru Heart Math May 8, 15 and 22, 2019
246. Connective Cacao and Sound Journey June 12, 2019
247. Chiangmai BLUES June 6, 2019
248. Hatha Slow Flow with Neil Jefferson June 3, 2019
249. Meditating with One Million Meditators Movement June 1, 2019
250. Vinyasa Happy Flow Series by Vaida May 31, 2019
251. Muay Thai at the Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium May 30, 2019
252. Yoga Flow Through the 7 Chakras by Sabrina Pilz May 30, 2019
253. The Outsiders (people you need to push out of your sacred circle) May 31, 2019
254. Fascinating Peoplescape of Chiang Mai May 22, 2019
255. World Meditation Day at Heart Space May 21, 2019
256. Abs Yoga by Gigit May 12, 2019
257. Kundalini and Vinyasa Yoga with Nicola Symons May 10, 2019
258. Secret Sunrise Interactive Dance May 9, 2019
259. Tok Sen Massage from Ying May 8, 2019
260. Bruschetta: Nawa Saraan Style Apr 22, 2019
261. Thai Cooking at Pra Nang Thai Cookery School Apr 20, 2019
262. Bonding with the Elephants in Chiang Mai Apr 11, 2019
263. Ziplining in Chiang Mai with Eagle Track Zipline Apr 10, 2019
264. Getting Thai Massage from Chiang Mai's Best (Lar Thanakrit Khamtanong) Mar 21, 2019
265. Being the Soul of Nawa Saraan Hotel Mar 18, 2019
266. Peoplescape of Chiang Mai Jan 24 - Mar 13, 2019
267. Curing Cancer with Yoga? Feb 21, 2019
268. International Training Massage School (ITM): Level 1 Feb 11-15, 2019
269. Sandesch Album Launch by Christoph Joerg Feb 13, 2019
270. Meditation in a Sensory Deprivation Tank at Float Chiang Mai Jan 29, 2019
271. Reiki Share at the Mastermind Brain Spa Jan 26, 2019
272. Resuming Life in Chiang Mai Jan 24, 2019
273. 4 Days in Chiang Mai at Nawa Saraan Hotel Jan 2-6, 2019
274. Mike Chong Aug 8, 2018
275. An Intimate Conversation with my Universe in Chiang Mai Aug 8, 2018
276. Kneaded and Pampered at Zira Spa Aug 4, 2018
277. Savoring a Baht 3,500 Birds Nest Soup at Natural Bird Nest by Burapa Aug 3, 2018
278. Yoga Exploration at The Yoga Tree with Gernot Aug 1, 2018
279. Laughter Yoga with Saffiya Arnous July 31, 2018
280. Yoga with Adam at Hidden House Yoga, Chiang Mai July 29, 2018
281. 2 Weeks in Chiang Mai July 25 - Aug 7, 2018
282. A First Timer in Chiang Mai Apr 9-23, 2016
283. Chiang Mai's Amazing Peoplescape Apr 9-23, 2016
284. Dance Mandala in Chiang Mai at The Yoga Tree Apr 19, 2016
285. Songkran Waterfight Festival in Chiang Mai Apr 13-15, 2016
286. 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!