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Day 12 Such is the secret of well executed night that at breakfast question ‘will you buy me a new phone ? ‘ could be matter of factly rephrased “will you buy me that 12000 phone today ?’ which allowed me to counter propose ‘ no , that for 8000 only”. See how easy it is, LOL. So again off we went to that store where I was treated with spectacle of salesman dancing around S , extolling virtues of 12000 model and me faking an interest in 4500 model of the same make (Vivo ). All that in vain as I stood my ground at 8000 and was intended to indeed. Then all of the sudden 10000 model become attractive but I had my answer ready although requiring going to the quiet corner where I whispered “ you sleep with me tonight for free and I buy you that 10000 one or sleep for free and give me back 2000 I gave you this morning and we have 12000 one.” That was brilliant as it’s always very hard to part with money so WE settled on the first offer, 10000 and tip free night. Now you know why I called S historical figure – he made that old fool Vinapu joining long line of farangs buying their guy a phone. Such was his charm that I still don’t regret it. Both happy we returned to hotel where phone was arrested till tomorrow morning, we had some steamy moments as celebration of new acquisition and at noonish he went home and I went to continue my walks around old city mindful of fact that at 2 B, the body builder is scheduled to come. Arrived on time indeed. Such a body can’t be wasted as masseur so I suggested we change roles, he will become sandbag like me and I will massage him. I did very good job and tipped him well too. Before we started he modestly show me on his phone internet offer of some dreamt about shoes for just only 650. Yes , he got it too . I’m on shopping spree today it seems but that the secret of good mood. Exhausted after all that opening and closing wallet and massaging such substantial hunk I decided to have a rest in form of visiting Chiang Mai railway station. Took songtaew there for 60 baht as it’s quite far from old city. New and shiny train to Bangkok was ready to depart in few minutes, always enchanting moment for me , railway man at heart my whole life. No hunk is able to distract me from counting carriages of passing train, no matter how manly and muscly he would be. At 6 p.m. on the dot national anthem was played and right after train started rolling toward Bangkok 12.5 hrs. away. Not too many passengers, presumably more will join on the way but 1st class seemed to be filled by farangs. Not exactly cheap as lower berth in 1 st class costs 1600 odd baht it seems romance of rail travel still has hold on many not to mention savings on night at hotel. Perhaps I should try that one day at least one way. Leisurely walk to Classic for last massage there this trip. As mamasan suggested time to fork 1000 for 4 hands massage. From massage point of view it doesn’t make much sense , probably 2 session in row with one guy would make more of it because 4 hands requires not only massage skills but great degree of coordination between boys. You may feel strange if on is massaging your left shoulder while other takes care about right calf. But for fun and that was my intention, 4 hands can’t be beaten as long as very important condition is met : boys must be comfortable with each other. Common mistake is to force one guy on another which may not work due to shyness, friendship, blood relation or guys simply not being fond of each other. Cure for that is simple: chose one guy and let him bother with choosing second one. Chances are he will be good match. You may warn that 2nd guy still needs to be approved by you and if you have specific requirements you need to tell up front. Since it was my 4th time there and no doubt guys are updating themselves about clients I did not make much fuss, chose one and left him with task of getting helper of his choice. Fun intended , fun achieved. Massage was quite ok with one tasked with above the waist and other one with the lower carcass, it was how they chose to work. After a while I started being active and we had good , laughter filled time indeed. 1500 a head tipped, well received. Then S and I jumped on his motorsai heading for his friends restaurant. Too bad I’m leaving as friend was quite handsome boss and if I was longer would investigate option of getting my hands on him. S was visibly eager to retrieve his treasures arrested in my room but to his credit while night was more quiet than previous two he kept his side of bargain to successfully finalize my day 12

Day 13 S was not rushing in the morning , patiently accompanied me to a breakfast and finally last embraces, kiss , pat on the bum and he was gone , phone and other treasures secured in his bag. Nothing emotional and I liked it like that, we both did our part and parted our ways happy. Question how to get to the airport was solved surprisingly easy, as soon as I stepped outside hotel’s gate songtaew stopped delivering some guest and his daughter, asked 50 baht to the airport and soon I was there, well before intended time but day was pleasant so I could wait basking in the sun. S sent me line saying that I forgot to tip him for last night, yeah, right , nice try answered I, remember our agreement from previous morning and answer of sticker with blinking eye came right away so we knew it was just a joke. Flight to BKK was uneventful and visibility was good, we circled city and landed from sea side , attached below is picture of Chao Praya joining the sea taken from approach. My hotel this time was Furama Sathorn close to Chong Nonsi BTS, bit hidden in the side soi and again I abused covid situation of depressed prices by splurging on Executive Suite. 1300 baht with breakfast for 2 , perhaps 1/3 of normal price for such a room. Separate living room with kitchenette , bedroom , balcony and full washroom with shower and tube accessible from both living room and bedroom, in short almost like an appartment. Bell boy face looked somewhat familiar and he also looked at me with some interest, later on after intensive brain work I realized that I saw him working at Moonlight few years ago, fact he confirmed when I discretely asked. Impressive part is we never met but still both managed to remember our faces. After I settled I took motorsai to soi Pluk Chit but no, not to see T at Sabaidee but to meet ChristianPFC after long 2 years absence. We had a lot to catch on so I had some soup in one of stalls and we moved to my room to continue. After catching with what’s new and old and admiring new unusual denominated 30 000 riel commemorative hybrid ( paper with transparent plastic window ) note he brought for me from Cambodia we went to survey massage places at Silom Plaza . Few acceptable guys at Best Massage at ground floor , we also went up to Arena but at that time , past 8 p.m. it was already closed. Then to Hot Male just recently opened. One of guys on the scene was Ah-poo, guy I spot on apps and was exchanging messages last week on Line , one who used ‘boy services” description instead of more crude money boy. We couldn’t align our timing then but now was a chance. I liked his picture and even more original on the scene so I called him over, showed on my smartphone our conversations which he easily recalled, 500 off fee and soon we were marching to the hotel where nobody blinked an eye seeing us. Great Cambodian night crowning day 13.

Day 11 We had breakfast together, then I packed my meagre possessions and taking advantage of my newest friend’s motorsai we went to my new digs – impressively named and even more impressively looking Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts Hotel in small alley 1 block from Chiang Mai gate. In normal times I likely would be to stingy to rent room there but covid times are depressing hotel prices exponentially so even such beauty and luxury become affordable at 1200 , breakfast included. Since after last night there was no doubt that S will be my companion for next 2 I checked him in and he got his own door card as there was no way I let him to sleep at home even if he is married with a child. Specially with such modest tip expectations, right? palatial Phor Liang Meun terracotta Arts Hotel, lobby and a room When we settled in he suggested that we visit electronic shop as he wanted to check some new phone model so we went , remember WE have a vehicle. Phone in question had price tag of 13000 but now was on promotion for 12000. I was even asked if I like it, how thoughtful. But no, at no time suggestion was made I should chip in because as Ecclesiast says it is time for everything , for laughter and cry , for sowing and harvest and so on. Then we parted ways string in knowledge that I will come to Classic for massage with somebody else but take him home afterwards. I continued with my tourist program, visiting temple after temple and when I got too spiritual I decided to bring myself to the level by going to Sanctuary Spa, not far from my hotel, easy to find as it’s facing moat close to SuanPrung gate. Entry is bit forested with ample greenery. It was only one guy on duty, others could be called in but no need since guy was handsome, tall , muscular and bulgy. I always say all we need is 1 bar and 1 guy in it so decided to try my wisdom. Fee was 1000 baht for 1.5 hr session, min tip the same and off we went. Both massage and afters were outstanding , truly were so tip was increased to 1500 and we parted ways both smiling. If I was not engaged with S , there was another candidate. But I like S. and after all that sightseeing I kind of miss him so slowly but surely I walked again to Classic where S din not even bother to present himself as it was known that today is somebody else’s turn. Mamasan reminded me that 5 massages are getting 6th free and since tomorrow is my last day he suggests 4 hands. Today it was B, the body builder. That was pleasure to extend that I asked him to come to my hotel during day tomorrow handing him over hotel’s business card and my Line. S was waiting in the wings but when we were done he confidently emerged and soon after motorsaied me to a dinner. During which suggestion , mind you, just suggestion was made we can go to the mall to do some shopping. Not that I need to buy anything but obviously he did so I just tagged along. We had a good luck as some Adidas shoes were on sale and so were jeans but of course nothing stopped US from buying 2 pairs of shoes , jeans shorts and jacked . WE bought , I paid but I kind of had fun witnessing how I’m manipulated into opening my heart and wallet . Even now recalling it I smile. Truth is all those good were good value for quite a modest price and I thought in view of night past and future, worth the expense. Now we know what low LT tip means, LOL. There was pressing need for a belt for another 1200 but despite shining eyes, my short ‘no’ did the trick and pressure eased down. In the room all goodies were arrested and I told him he will get them on day of my departure as I don’t want him to poke them into eyes of his friends in Classic as long as I’m here. He got the concept. Before you call me old fool etc let me tell you that now my fun started and I would be ungrateful asshole if I did not state that I was greatly rewarded for my troubles all night long, it’s why I smile. Even skillful suggestion I will buy him that phone tomorrow did not spoil my fun. I think this is what happens when guy makes sure you like him. So my day 11 , busy and expensive turned still to be memorable and full filled , fuck the money.

for temple lovers some samples of what Chiang Mai has to offer

From Khaosod English BANGKOK — A naturalistic public park has arrived in Bangkok and it’s not to be missed. Phase two of the Benjakitti Park, opened quietly last December, offered visitors a new and different experience from other public parks – it is modern, minimalist and naturalistic. BANGKOK — A naturalistic public park has arrived in Bangkok and it’s not to be missed. Phase two of the Benjakitti Park, opened quietly last December, offered visitors a new and different experience from other public parks – it is modern, minimalist and naturalistic. BANGKOK — A naturalistic public park has arrived in Bangkok and it’s not to be missed. Phase two of the Benjakitti Park, opened quietly last December, offered visitors a new and different experience from other public parks – it is modern, minimalist and naturalistic. Highlights include a nearly two-kilometer long skywalk crisscrossing a lovely view of wetland peppered with mounds of earth forming tiny islets below. There’s also a separate walking trail at ground level. The paths, both on the upper and lower levels, encourage you to keep walking and explore. They are laid out seemingly at random, making getting lost fun. Converted from a land formerly part of the Tobacco Authority of Thailand with an entrance from Ratchadaphisek Road, one can see some high rise buildings enveloped from all directions. Yet, the feelings are more lost in nature because the naturalistic park requires a five-minutes walk from the entrance of the old phase of Benjakitti Park. his means if you are standing at the center of the new park, which is adequately large at 61 rai excluding the final unfinished phase, you won’t hear any traffic noises despite the fact that you’re just a 15 to 20 minutes’ walk from BTS Asok station and Sukhumvit station of the MRT underground. On the western end of the park, there is a large grass lawn surrounded by a half amphitheater. There are 12 levels of slope made of bare concrete where one could just sit and watch the views of nature, the skyline, and other people relaxing and playing frisbee. Benjakitti Wetland Park is part of the old Benjakitti Park. The entrance is located on Ratchadaphisek Road, next to Queen Sirikit Convention Center. It opens from 5am to 9pm daily. https://www.khaosodenglish.com/life/2022/01/06/a-review-of-bangkoks-new-wetland-park/

this is exactly how I treated whole phone debacle - part of adventure. He was particularly good in creating 'boyfriend ' illusion without pretending it's real thing so got rewarded for his skills I guess. Although generally I believe more in monetary compensation than material gifts he skillfully created situation when I wanted to see him happy for receiving those goods.

If you liked the boy and you did have great time together I don't see any wrong here by buying him a phone my moto in life it's better to be generous and kind then cheap Cahrlie. I am doing only long term with a boy because I like the illusion of "boyfriend" companion besides the fee agreed I don't mind from time to time to buy the boy a gift such a perfume ,shoes , clothes atc. as he wishes it's a part of the adventure with him and if both sides are statisfied and happy I never regret doing that.

From Thai Enquirer Thailand adjusts entry permissions, restarts sandbox entries, halts Test and Go Thailand said it will adjust its entry permissions on Friday in line with global pandemic guidelines. The Test and Go procedure with one-day quarantine is still temporarily scrapped. “We will continue to halt the Test and Go procedure for now,” said Dr Taweesin Visanuyothin, the spokesman of the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration. The deadline for those with approved Thailand Passes for the procedure, was extended from January 10 to 15. “No entry via this procedure will be allowed after January 15,” he said. The CCSA estimated that there are around 10,400 people who were approved for the procedure and still waiting to enter between January 7 and 15. The ban on entries from eight African countries will be lifted on January 11. The registration to enter Thailand via the tourist sandboxes, with seven days quarantine period, in Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga and Surat Thani (Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan and Ko Tao) will be reopened on January 11 after it was halted on December 22. https://www.thaienquirer.com/36302/thailand-adjusts-entry-permissions-restarts-sandbox-entries-halts-text-and-go/

There can be little doubt that Trump is responsible for a great deal of the damage. Yet, I think we should never forget why this con man, fraudster, litigious bigot and TV personality actually managed to get elected in the first place. At the outset his candidacy was regarded as a joke by most Republicans. He treated his fellow candidates worse than cheating schoolchildren. Yet the US electoral system enabled him to become President! And now more than a year after he was kicked out, the faults in the US electoral system - of which so many have now become so obvious - enable him to continue with his lying, cheating and undermining of the very democracy the US is supposed to be built on. Anyone who really examined Trump before the election would have known full well the extent of the damage he could do. His failed business dealings, his close relationship with the in-the-closet homophobic bigot sue-at-all-costs lawyer Roy Cohn and so much more - failure to provide tax returns, obviously manipulated medical "record", views on women and so forth - should have disqualified him as a candidate. But he was the teflon Don. Nothing stuck. Set aside for a moment the antiquated and now ridiculous electoral college system. Trump was elected because a great many Americans felt left behind. It was not just the disastrous failures resulting from the 2008 financial meltdown which saw so many suffer so very badly but the fact that the bankers and financiers who actually caused it with their personal and corporate greed get away, in all but I think one or two cases, scot-free in the years following the scandals. Even before then, though, I believe the average American had seen many of the rich getting mega-rich while that average man or woman had to work harder just to make ends meet. At the same time the poor got poorer and felt helpless. When such a small percentage of the population owns such a huge amount of its wealth, how does that square with 35-40 million Americans relying on what used to be called food stamps. It matters little that it has been Republican policies which have largely created this wealth disparity. Americans were just fed up of government in general. Trump, the "successful" "billionaire" TV star gave too many some hope that life might just get better for them. It didn't, other than for the mega-rich and members of the Trump clan. I trashed the US electoral system earlier. I could as easily trash those of other countries, especially my own, but the topic of this thread is America. Whenever I hear pundits talk about American history, the wisdom of the founding fathers and their Constitution is praised to the heavens. We know that that document caused a great deal of angst before it was adopted. Now much of it is very much outdated and should be radically altered in my view. Two reasons. That Constitution was ratified by only 9 out of 13 states. In 1788 there were no motor vehicles, no planes, no computers, no public transport. A long period of time was required to collate all votes within a state and then another long period for those votes to be safely delivered to the capitol. There is today absolutely no reason on earth why it should take more than two months for an election to be certified. There is no reason why for a national rather than a local election a Federal law regarding election procedures should not be adopted rather than a whole series of separate voting systems and procedures mandated by individual states. There is no reason why the resultant votes cannot be quickly verified within days if there is a dispute. The hanging chad business in Florida that stretched out the election process in 2000 was a total farce in the eyes of the democratic world. A new administration could - and in my view - should be able to take over the government within a week or so at most. In the UK it takes 24 hours. Secondly, that long totally unnecessary drawn-out period between polling day and certification plays right into the hands of crooks and naysayers like Trump. No doubt some will argue that it has never happened before; that Trump is a maverick and it won't happen again. Oh really? I can't talk about the past but I certainly would not bet on the future! There are actually three other related points stemming from the present electoral mess. One is the example shown to the rest of the world. And it's a dreadful example of democracy and how it should work. The Putins, Xis and other dictators must be salivating as they trumpet how much better their system of government is. And let's be frank. Right-wing nationalism is now on the rise in many parts of the world. Secondly, the four year term of office is surely totally out-dated if only because it encourages short-termism. Few of us might choose to live in Putin's Russia, but for the vast majority of his people it appears he is doing a good job of restoring Russia's reputation after the humiliation of the fall of Communism. He has had two decades to do that. Xi has few critics, not because they are likely to be thrown in jail or worse. The fact is - and few in the west ever really acknowledge this - that since the end of the disastrous Cultural Revolution and the collapse of virtually everything, the economy included, the one-party leadership of that country has pulled a basically peasant society into the world's second largest economy in little over 45 years. Forget for a moment how it has done that, the theft of intellectual property, a disastrous human rights record etc. (but when we talk about human rights for Tibetans and Uighurs, it always seems odd to me that Americans conveniently forget to talk about the mass slaughter of the Native American population or the historical treatment of African Americans!). Just stick to the facts. China will be the world's next great power and there is nothing any other country can do other than resort to nukes. The fact that China is not a democratic society is constantly trumpeted in the west, especially in the US. Yet the US was founded on democratic principles. The people of China have never known democracy throughout the entire period of their history. One man (only once, one woman) has ruled China for millennia. The dictators have time to carry out their plans. A system of government that changes every four years - with an ensuing government able to undo what the previous one has effected as with the Iranian nuclear deal, for example - is a far from ideal way of being the world's superpower. Lastly, the Trump years - and some prior to then - have shown that an entrenched two party system of government is basically undemocratic. Oh, I know. The more parties, the more difficult democracy becomes. Just look at Israel and its plethora of small, single issue parties and the mess it gets into in elections. But the whole point of what I am trying to say is to challenge Churchill's view that democracy is the worst form of government other than those which have already been tried. I challenge not the sentiment. I challenge the vital need for democracies constantly to review their procedures for electing governments. What worked in 1788 in the US does not work now. As long as it remains unchanged, the world becomes a more dangerous place. All merely my views and I know these will have upset some readers. Fair enough, but perhaps you can explain how you believe the system should be changed?

Mine will go to my surviving brothers and sisters, now if I'm the last to go then I will have to come up with a plan B but not too sure what that will be yet, might be to nieces and nephews. Different direction in a way, if I was diagnosed with a terminal disease, cancer for instance, I think I would sell off everything and distribute it before the end, that way there would only be minimal things to do after the end. Of course adjustments made along the way as and if things change.

Well, a good deal is going to my partner. No children. I have two nieces, one of whose parents is extremely rich, so no need from me. The other niece's parent is also wealthy, so a fairly token amount to her. As of this time, most of my estate will go to charities, including a scholarship fund for university students who've suffered on account of their sexual orientation or gender identity (i.e. parents kicked them out).

Such a shitheel... And what is extra terrifying is many of these are for positions of authority in future elections, such as Secretaries of State! Yesterday's news coverage... Even turd blossom!

Two frequent question that arise when discussing retirement is how long will my savings last and how much should I be able to withdraw on a regular basis. I've seen many interactive tools aimed at helping answer those questions. I consider this one among the best. https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/retirement/how-long-will-savings-last

The CCSA kept the status of the eight provinces approved for tourism promotion unchanged, meaning they are allowed to serve alcoholic beverages at eateries until 9pm. The provinces are: Bangkok Chon Buri Kanchanaburi Krabi Nonthaburi Pathum Thani Phangnga Phuket

I have to add that I'm very good at asking questions and pointing out what I believe to be problems. I am much less good at coming up with answers. I have sometimes criticised Singapore which is hardly a democracy in the western sense. But I must admit I do not know if there are criteria for becoming a parliamentary candidate. If there are such criteria, I wonder what they are and who rules on them. I also suppose the moment you establish minimum criteria there will be a lot of people who cry foul as this could eliminate some potential candidates who might well go on to become good and conscientious MPs. I suppose, too, if there had been criteria in the US in 2016, Trump would either have met them or ensured his minions found a way of getting him to meet them. I am no fan of Boris Johnson in the UK - although I readily admit that his opposite number in the Labour Party at the last election was singularly ineffective and given the choice, I am sure many voted for Johnson as the lesser of two evils, as it were. I believed his former boss at the Daily Telegraph newspaper who wrote a scathing article before Johnson became leader warning readers that he was totally unqualified to lead his Party and to become Prime Minister. I believe much worse was written, but I cannot remember it now. In theory, SIngapore could be an example of the type of democracy that western countries might look more closely at. The problem is that, like Japan, it is democratic in name only. Both countries are basically benevolent dictatorships and I do not see electors in western democracies giving up the rights and freedoms that would be necessary to make them work. The two core issues which I feel have to be tackled in countries like the USA and to a large extent the UK are firstly the two party system. You just have to see the mess that the US now finds itself in to realise it no longer works. Add to that the enormous power given to the winning party to appoint judges right through the entire justice system which effectively gives that party the right to determine certain key policy issues for possibly decades after the party has lost power. Secondly, as mentioned in my earlier post, governments need more time. 4 years is no longer enough given that the world will soon have an undemocratic China as the supreme power..

Pappa Jack for pizza (only pizza is good, imo) in Copa http://pappajack.com.br/ L'Atelier Mimolette (French) http://www.lateliermimolette.com.br/ Boteco Belmonte A really cool place to hang out and drink Brazilian appetizers https://www.instagram.com/boteco_belmonte/ You won't be disappointed at those 3 places .... If you're lazy, ordering anything from Ubereats...look for brownies from here, they're packaged, but VERY good. I brought 20 back to the U.S. and everyone loved them. https://browniedoluiz.com.br/ I heated in the microwave and a scoop of ice cream on top ☺️

Yes, I am laughing at most of that, but at the same time it makes me feel so sad that so much of the population could support all that insanity. The damage tRump did across the civilised world in those four years was catastrophic.

I was at Clube 117 in Rio and the drag MC was doing the standard stand-up component. I always find it earsplitting in volume and ended up walking through to an exit to access a quieter area. Not surprisingly, it turns out that one of the garotos de programa was walking ahead of me. A tirade of lascivious comments came from the stage. I imagine it happens at most performances but never fails to get a laugh. And I wasn’t following the stud! I really wasn’t!

Yes, I had an ex with with Sinopharm's and wanted the Moderna or Pfizer booster and waiting for 8 hours to get it. Supply gone. Come back next day. We all know how few days working Thais get off from work without loosing a job. While it is easy for us, it is not easy for some. And, this was after hours of talking to him about getting it because the Thai press is talking a lot about side effects. He did eventually get it because he had someone pushing him hard to get it.

Being a creature of the far north I will absolutely be out of my element and I’m going to sweat like a pig. That being said, the delicate art of beach cruising sounds like a lot of fun and something I should learn. I’m staying essentially in Arpoador but it looks like a few blocks to posto 8 and 9. I’ll have a good time regardless. my main goals for the first week is experience the sauna scene, make a few friends, find good food (I’m a chef ). And a few tourist stops of course.

I disagree with most of these "The government is just being stupid/selfish/crazy/mean." ideas. While Omicron seems noticeably less dangerous, how it plays out in hospitalizations and deaths remains somewhat to be seen. If it spreads ten times as fast, but is only as 20% as fatal as Delta, that still means twice the death rate of delta. Current evidence seems to suggest that it isn't going to be that big a problem. But, you cannot travel back in time and enforce measures to slow the spread if it proves to be a greater problem. The only rational decision you can make as a public official is to move towards strict anti-spread measures initially as the data comes in. You can always loosen measures as the data supports it. If the data supports tougher measures, and you didn't do them, well, by then its too late. Certainly, there can be debate as to what those are, but the suggestion that the only reason a government would use them is because they're power mad I think is more about all of our fatigue at Covid than it is a reasonable critique of policy.

Yes, we as old men have vaccines. We are also mostly well off by Thai standards and have better vaccines that many in Thailand. Young children are not vaccinated and regardless of how this effects the tourist system, some thought has to be put into protecting every citizen. Like many, I don't think stopping tourists from coming is the answer. But, I understand the panic. Asian countries have done better than most tourist countries that want to come here. I'm old and I don't give a shit what anyone says about lower risks with new variants. In the last week, I have had 10 people get sick with Covid in Bangkok that I know (not been around them) and 2 were on ventilators as it was serious. I have also been lucky to have a boy with me for 6 months that has been amazing. I don't know if I would have made it alone. I often drive him crazy so I know I would have driven myself insane if I were alone.

Try this one then: gaining political power. Ask yourself who has the most to gain by creating the chaos--and not just in the case of Omicron. It's the same tactic that's been used successfully in politics around the globe. Niccolò Machiavelli wrote the book on it in the 16th century. In Thailand, a key minister who has been out in front in the Covid-19 discussion very much wants to displace the incumbent PM. By taking controversial stands, you garner tons of free publicity that gets your name and photo in the daily headlines. It's a means to an end. And you don't have to look to deeply into today's headlines to see it playing out even more robustly than yesterday. As usual, all the decisions are being made by the elites in Bangkok and Chiang Mai who provide the money that finances the legislative election campaigns. The winners then get to decide who gets the nod for the PM's job. It's all about power. Acquiring it, exercising it and keeping hold of it.

Day 10 Not only I slept well but also had T in my dreams ( dry, relax ) , I must be missing him I guess so time to get serious to find consolator thought I at breakfast. When in Chiang Mai visit to Doi Suthep , temple up the mountain visible from every corner of city, including my window at Viangbua Mansion is a must. Easiest and most economical way to get there is by baht bus. Those going up the mountain have dedicated stop outside the moat , opposite Chang Puak gate, right in front of 7/11. Fare is 60 baht one way , glitch is baht bus will go when full. And now we have covid and resulting dearth of tourists so I decided to speed things up by asking how much it will be to rent whole vehicle for a trip there and back including waiting. 500 baht seemed reasonable so I agreed immediately , bought some drinks at 7/11 and up the hill we went. Even now it was visible that place is popular as parking was quite full. I conquered 300 or so steps leading to the temple quite fast and find the place worth of accolades I heard about that. Air was much fresher there too , specially that it was still early. View of city down the mountain was worth the trip itself. I spent good 2 hours wandering around, then had a 50 baht lunch in one of stalls there, wandered around souvenir stalls and almost bought the shirt but unfortunately they did not have my size so I consoled myself with obligatory t-shirt and fridge magnet and down we went. Rest of day I spent wandering around old city with it zillion of temples , laboriously I went inside every one I passed by. I found my next hotel I will be moving to tomorrow as well as Sanctuary Spa I intend to visit some day as well. Very touristy day but when it started darkening I walked again to Classic House for an intended massage with guy I called ‘ candidate “ yesterday but from now on that historical figure will be called S . Why historical it will be explained in a day or two. Massage and guy itself were much more impressive than last night’s so I investigated about Long Time option, accepted immediately and quite modest tip of 2000 was asked for a privilege. I must say I liked S from minute 1, both smile and build were enamoring and massage very well conducted. As a bonus he had motorsai so we went for dinner and subsequently to hotel in style. In case somebody is curious what I had for a dinner answer is chicken with cashew nuts, very well done. Luxuriating in my Executive Suite we had a chat , beer and it did not take long before heat of the night lead us to the bed where we, or at least me had a very rewarding night crowning day 10 of my trip. few impressions from Doi Suthep below, airport visible on the right of last pics

Great report. It sounds like you're having a wonderful trip. I wish I was there!

I look forward to it and also a nice bar crawl around some of our favourite bars and of course take a lot of 100 baht notes to slip into nice tight underpants ☺️

In defense of Carnaval... Rio's Carnaval is one of those things to experience once in your life. I saw the grand finale ten years ago and I have great memories of the incredible, over-the-top shows. Here is my suggestion for minimizing the chaos but seeing the highlight: Get tickets to see the Winners Parade which is the Saturday after Carnaval technically ends. This year it will be held March 5th (9pm until about 5am) at the usual venue the Sambodromo. The beauty of going this night is that you get to see the number one samba school and the five runners-up (and skip the losers). https://www.riocarnaval.org/samba-parade/champions-parade ● Pay extra for premium seats; it's worth it. ● Maybe buy an extra seat since the width on the bench is narrow. ● Bring thick ear plugs to make the deafening sound system tolerable. ● Get a long afternoon nap in advance of the fantastic night long show. By this weekend there will still be random, entertaining marches (half of which have lots of drag) in the Copacabana area during the day. I had an awesome tail end of Carnaval. And the saunas were a blast as usual. At the same time, like taking the TransSiberian Express, I don't need to do it again, but I'm extremely glad I did it once.

he had a working phone and just took an opportunity to upgrade, lets put it this way , I had fun buying it and witnessing whole spectacle to coerce me to do it, that's all

Flu is increasingly wreaking havoc. Here’s a lead for Sampa vaccination if you are there and have yet to be inoculated, in spite of its apparent current reduced efficacy, though it might not yet be open to adults under age 60 (as of 28 Dec); possibly now added. And flu is likely more particulate/droplet than aerosol, so more caution and hygiene handling surfaces, masks, etc. There may be public injection sites at the Rio beaches. One July in Leme near the Fisherman’s Walk there a nurse approached asking if I wanted vaccination on the spot. There may be a current off-season campaign. https://agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br/saude/noticia/2022-01/sp-faz-vacinacao-contra-covid-19-e-influenza-em-todos-os-postos?amp

Let's don't forget that for us 10k Baht is not small amount but it's not something that would brake our bank account but for average Thai boy it's equal to one month average salary in Thailand it's a substantial amount for him and if you didn't buy him that phone it will probably takes for him many months of savings before he could afford himself buying it.

You would need to call ahead of any visit @young11. It’s the only way to check that they are open. Catalonia has a curfew (and other measures) to combat the rising number of Covid19 cases. The restrictions are in force until at least 20 January. I’m not sure how a sauna would be classed (nightlife or indoor play area?). The nightlife sector is closed, and leisure centres may only open with 50% capacity. Gatherings of only upto 10 people are permitted. Face mask use is mandatory indoors and outdoors (NB fines are heavy).

I just posted about The Last Picture Show. Sad to hear his passing. Such a good movie. Never you mind honey, never you mind.

He directed Saint Jack too, filmed in Singapore in 1979, about hustlers making a living off American GIs having their R&R in Singapore during the Vietnam war. Kind of Patpong-ish, though somewhere in the middle of the film is a gay cruising scene. It's on youtube. Post-Vietnam war, you know the rest: Patpong flourished for decades more, the Singapore scene died. RIP Peter Bogdanovich.

Just got back from Rio.... Had an amazing time....got in on the morning of the 26th...Had time to go to the grocery store and then the gym before the beach... AMAZING Sunday beach day...tons of hot guys, beautiful weather...typical Ipanema during winter Monday-Pointe was just okay..Nice selection of guys...My partner and I had some fun with 2 guys there Tuesday-117...Insane...CIRCUS...got there around 6:45....Wall to wall guys...from the entryway to the hallways, both sitting areas/bars PACKED Huge selection of guys but also a huge selection of regulars....with some foreigners mixed in.... It was almost TOO overwhelming... Had a great time with two guys there Definitely the best night hands down....show was decent, was still packed when we left Wednesday at Pointe...also super packed...nice selection of guys, a ton of guys there...didnt do anything there but flirt... Guys are definitely increasing their prices or trying to based on supply and demand... Booking a few more trips back to Rio before their seasons change

Meio Mundo is still opened, just smaller. Is worth a visit on a Fri or Mon sometimes.....next door types, no muscle guys. https://www.facebook.com/newmeiomundo/

Meo Mundo has been closed for years.... Why would I attempt to go all the way to Niteroi to go to a sauna.... I suggest you do some research to avoid wasting your time Pointe and 117 along with the apps are sufficient for finding guys and having a good time in Rio

Reminds me of going to drag shows at the old Esquilita in NYC. I had a very young BF (19-23) and I was 20 years older and much bigger than my cute androgynous Filipino lover. I was mortified 100 times there as they always seem to find us in the crowd. I kept going as it was his thing but I learned to kind of go and get a drink when the dance was over and the talking started.

The Thing Called Love which he directed had one of my all time favorite actors River Phoenix. RIP

sister, she is well off but still my sister. Spending all so nothing is left is good if one is planning suicide , otherwise not very prudent as we never know how many years we will be bed ridden and looking / paying to others to change our pampers so disposing ones assets too soon is not wise IMHO. Beneficiaries can wait

I did not know indeed, perhaps because I always more focus on what's opened , not what is closed , including my own wallet. Even faded gay scene in Chiang Mai worked for me very well and chances are city will be included in my circuit in future trips. I repeat my mantra for 27th time, all we need is one bar and one suitable boy in it.

I wouldn't say never. I'd go for usually. It's OK to out someone who profits from anti-gay activities and promotes an anti-gay agenda (for example the late Senator Daniel Craig and Senator Lindsay Graham).

This thread makes me think of the Colombian expression "No dar papaya". It means don't put yourself in a situation where you may be taken advantage of, don't show wealth or draw unnecessary attention, a papaya being a rich, delicious fruit that you should not simply give away since then you cannot enjoy it. https://www.spanishdict.com/answers/151217/what-does-no-dar-papaya-mean Often when someone recounts something bad that has happened, you will hear "Dio papaya" in response. It is somewhat victim blaming (fair observation) but the idea is very Colombian -- something precipitated the event, no fue por casualidad. When in Colombia (and Medellin) remember "No dar papaya" and you will be just fine in many situations. P.S. That includes putting your mobile phone on the restaurant or café table while dining. Big mistake in Colombia -- do not do it.

06 Jan '22: "I just back from Dreamboys now. The government ordered the closure of high-risk places indefinitely from tonight. Silom soi 2 and 4 a lot of people have Covid19, Also in Dreamboys around 8-10 people have Covid19." This is from a long time Dreamboys employee. I've known him for 20+ years. He is usually reliable.

I'd focus on what's open , not closed, as opportunities for fun are still aplenty, eye witness here

Rio used to have more cruisy spots (in the same vein of the 70s / 80s / early 90s American gay cruising scene) but it really isn’t the city for that kind of scene anymore. São Paulo rules the roost in that area. In Rio, you now have Sexy Rose in Cinelândia, which is an odd combination XXX video booth / dark room / drag show / gogo show place. It’s next door neighbor is an old school adult theatre, very dark where mostly very bland looking and older patrons and a few low-budget street hustlers are available. I think it’s called Cine Rex, but not sure. There used to be a Seven Cruising Bar in Centro that stayed open until 10 pm, but I’m not sure if it shut down due to the pandemic. Google Maps says it’s open, but I would still check other sources before venturing out there. Rio is a big beach culture. If you are able to learn the delicate art of beach cruising, and you don’t stick out like a swollen sore thumb, then it could take you a long way. Check the areas along Ipanema Beach with the pride flags and go from there. That’s all I have for you. If anyone else has something RECENT and UP TO DATE to contribute, I’m all ears.

That did not work. They have plenty of ways to exercise their power without destroying an entire industry their country's economy depends on. Of course the way things work around here, it would come as no great surprise to me if it turns out you are exactly right. As far as the length of my "I Don't Get It" list and how many items are on it - after all these years living in Thailand, think of the number of stars in our galaxy . . .

I actually see is as simplifying thing, one less for executor to worry about.

Jupiter decided to cash in on Christmas spirit and last night drinks went up from 150-180 to prepandemic 400 but at least show was decent with Hooola hop guy performing. And that rare specimen of smiling Jupiter boy was present so no complains from the me. Audience equals number of boys, roughly 20 so it must be tough. Soi 4 restaurants busy, but world famous, Michelin stars awarded Foodland restaurant at 3 pm completely empty except other forum member and me dining on their fine offerings at half of soi 4 prices. Madrid tavern still sporting padlock. Earlier atop MahaNakhon despite fine, almost unbangkokian visibility also sparse, crowd looking farang and Middle Eastern. On Saturday one would expect at least 10 times more people. But I like that sparse crowds, sure at odds with business owners.

Visited Jupiter at 10:00pm last night, show was about to start, 10-12 customers, 10-11 boys available, ratio wise this is the highest I have seen during my trip so far where customer number exceeds boys count. To top that 4 of them were girls and 1 wealthy customer who had one of those table occupied with lot of boys and whiskey bottle Most of the boys are top or straight acting (so they say), 3 of them were immediately offed by a table with 2 girls and 2 guys. 2 other boys were already booked by wealthy guy, leaving less offering on the table for others Nonetheless not too much loss for me as I already had something arranged for later this evening though wanted to check out how this bar has changed as my experience at Jupiter has been mixed. Anyway, paid 180 Bhat and off to Hotmale to see their model show, only 3 models available tonight, tempted to call "XYZ" (name changed due to privacy) looks very handsome, drinks 400 Bhat for me and for model/ any guy (no difference here). He speaks very little English so conversation was little difficult though that gives an opportunity to convey message with hands He's pure top and therefore things won't work between us but he was happy to offer oral experience with happy ending for 2K bhat (short time), while I love his nipples and very sensitive to touch (money on drinks worth spent), I would rather stick with full service so politely declined. He referred another guy who was cute but since I had an arrangement already so decided to stay with it. Got a text from my arrangement that he's waiting at hotel lobby so paid my bill (800 for drinks and 200 tip for our wonderful model) and called it a night.