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The Confabulation Tendency It is difficult to understand what is going on here. Why would the hospital require him to go home after ten days in quarantine? Why does he say he cannot see me in the hotel, when the hotel tells me a doctor’s letter is fine? Given the propensity of the human mind when stressed to automatically seek out a narrative which fits the ‘know facts’ – to make up a story to meet our need to feel we understand - I need to be very careful. My experience with Bangkok Guy, and the principal that the simplest explanation is most likely the correct one, suggest that what we have here is another example of linguistic/cultural fog. Something is lost-in-translation and I need to chill out and take time for things to become clear. Call this ‘Explanation A, Cultural Fog’. However, that simple direct piece of reasoning is insufficient to calm my mind and halt its search for pattern-fitting narratives. Soaring in flights of fancy, my mind constructs two ‘fact fitting’ narratives. The first of these, ‘Explanation B, It’s A Con!’ I have a sufficient grip on reality to dismiss. Beginning with the thought “Isn’t it odd that each announcement of not being able to meet came just at the last minute?”, in this narrative Bangkok Guy never had covid and never had any intention of meeting for any number of reasons which can be invented to propel the narrative. However, I think he has genuinely contracted covid. The whole thing is sufficiently elaborate and consistent that reality seems a much better bet than make-believe. Also, a complete con simply doesn't gell with my experience of Bangkok Guy, who is honest to a fault (I think?). In ‘Explanation C, The Curse of the Caring Falang’, Bangkok Guy has another Falang; contracting Covid has fouled up his careful management of his Falang; and he is now wildly improvising (for example, he tells me the hotel says he cannot enter, but the hotel tells me they will accept a doctor’s letter). This is a much longer narrative fitting many more ‘facts’. This trip has been in the works for a long time, plenty of time to develop a story for Falang #2 that he will be back in home village over New Year when he will actually be with me. In the initial discussion after he got covid his concern was canceling his flight to Koh Samui, nothing more. Meeting in Bangkok was good. It was only five days later that, in hindsight, his reluctance to go to the hotel ahead of me and the odd frustrated sticker he sent, signaled that something was off-balance (rather than simple frustration as I thought at the time). What has gone off-balance is that Falang #2 discovered he was in hospital and insisted that Bangkok Guy stay with him once he was released. The Curse of the Caring Falang! It is an old truth that the best lies contain a partial truth. However, my experience is that all our lies contain some truth as inventing a complete fantasy is just too difficult. Consciously or unconsciously, we incorporate elements of reality into our falsehoods. The piece of reality in Bangkok Guys’ story is that someone is saying he has to go home after leaving the hospital. The unreality is that the someone is the hospital. That Bangkok Guy may have more than one Falang is not ideal, but neither is it the end of the World. We have no agreement for, nor expectation of, exclusivity. His ideal Falang lives in Thailand and it is clear to both of us that this is not me. I am only in Thailand twice a year on average, two weeks of the four are business, so a maximum two weeks of his dedicated time. An entrepreneurial young man could utilize the other fifty weeks to his advantage. ‘Cultural Fog’ and ‘The Curse of the Caring Falang’ cast Bangkok Guy in very different lights. My experience of Bangkok Guy, and Occam’s Razor, suggest ‘Cultural Fog’ is the true situation here, but where emotions are involved (‘After all this I won’t see him!!!’) it is hard to clear the mind of a well-constructed narrative. I need to chill out and wait for Bangkok Guy’s response to my request for a doctor’s letter. ‘Cultural Fog’ will enable him to provide the letter. ‘It’s a Con!’ he cannot provide the doctor’s letter. ‘The Curse of the Caring Falang’ he will be able to provide the doctor’s letter but will not want to, resulting in improvised excuses.

Things Veer Further Off-Course I decide to spend my last day on Koh Samui dining at the two five star hotels that anchor each end of the beach. After a leisurely morning and strolling the beach I settle into a table next to the gently breaking surf and contentedly watch the World over a couple of glasses of pleasantly grassy sauvignon and a squid ink paella. After strolling the beach to settle lunch I am on my way to an afternoon massage appointment when Bangkok Guy pings me. He says he has talked to the hotel and ‘cannot enter’. I asked him yesterday to bring his vaccination card as the hotel now requires proof of vaccination. I call him and things only get murkier. He implies that he did not get his second shot. What?! However, as he has just recovered from covid this should not matter, and I tell him to get a letter from the hospital saying he is just out of quarantine as recent recovery is equal to a vaccination. There is a conversation in the background and he says no, hospital tell him to go home, cannot go to hotel. His response to my “but this is not the way it works” is “but this is Thailand”. He can see me outside hotel but cannot go into hotel. I feel sick. After all the effort to make this trip happen I will not spend time with Bangkok Guy?! Fortunately the ninety minute massage is very good and gives me time to clear my head and think. I call the hotel, explain the situation and ask what the rules are for someone just released from quarantine. They confirm my understanding: all that is required is a letter from the hospital saying he has had covid, has been in quarantine and has been released. No need for anything further. I send Bangkok Guy a Line message explaining what is required and ask him to get the letter. Then I head to dinner at the opposite end of the long white-sand crescent from lunch, where I enjoy a beautiful sunset over excellent Thai food. Next morning I catch my flight to Bangkok. Bangkok Guy is yet to read my message from the previous day.

Clearing the Cultural Fog My flight touches down early. To my surprise the domestic terminal is a hive of activity, a striking contrast to the international ghost town. A lady from LimoPattaya meets me in a very nice car for a fast trip into town. I notice that only one of the many large advertising billboards by the highway is in use, the others forlornly solicit business with their phone numbers. I am enjoying lunch by the river when Bangkok Guy pings me with a photo of a doctor’s letter, which I take to the concierge for translation to ensure that it has all the information the hotel needs. Bangkok Guy has a habit of sending me documents in Thai as proof of various things, such as the Time Payment Tractor, and I have always trusted that they show what he says they show. This is the first time I have had anything translated. The letter says Bangkok Guy has had covid, is about to end his ten days quarantine but then must return home for a further four days self-isolation. This seems overly cautious to me, but clarifies why Bangkok Guy insists he has to go home after he leaves hospital. His unwillingness to enter the hotel remains a mystery. It seems the caution is justified. I ask Bangkok Guy if he would like to take a day trip to Ayutthaya. “I feel weak lately. Do not want to travel. So sorry.” Although he looks good on Line - he probably makes sure he looks good when I call - I should have been more attuned to his earlier comment ‘not good inside’. My guess is that he contracted the Delta variant which remains more prevalent in Thailand than Omicron. This means that it may take a while for him to be back to full health. The concierge tells me that Bamboo Bar is open and I celebrate my first evening in Bangkok by returning to that old favorite to sip a Sazerac while listening to a very enjoyable jazz vocalist. Bangkok Guy will enjoy this once he is free as he likes jazz vocals, assuming he feels up to going out. I only stay for the first set however as there is an almost full house and I still have a final PCR test to pass. Back with the front desk I discover why Bangkok Guy thinks he can only meet me outside the hotel. Contrary to my earlier conversation I am now told the hotel’s policy is double-vaccination only, no doctor’s letters (!!??!!#@%!) which makes sense of Bangkok Guy’s statement that he can only meet me outside the hotel. It seems the policy depends upon to whom you talk. This misunderstanding is corrected. Bangkok Guy will be welcome. In the slightly fraught period during which the misunderstanding is corrected, I contact four alternative five star hotels to secure a back-up plan. Two are very clear ‘double-vaccination only’, one is open to accepting the doctor’s letter once they have seen it and can verify its contents, and one is equally clear at the opposite end of the spectrum ‘we have no vaccination requirement’.

now you got nice , Agatha Christie like, mystery to solve and we are itching to find out what it will be in the end

A vocal opponent of Covid-19 vaccine mandates, singer Meat Loaf appears to have succumbed to the disease himself (death certificate hasn't been filed yet). As an obese 74 year-old, you'd think he would have chosen a wiser course, since he fit the profile as a prime risk for the illness. I have zero understanding of why entertainers think they're so much more knowledgeable about vaccine safety and efficacy than public health and medical experts. It's difficult to muster any empathy here. Hopefully his words and actions didn't lead to others losing their lives. https://www.tmz.com/2022/01/21/meat-loaf-dead-dies-singer/ "...Our sources say Meat Loaf has been outspoken about COVID, railing with folks in Australia recently about vaccine mandates..." https://www.the-sun.com/entertainment/4509131/meat-loaf-died-catching-covid/ "...just months before his death he declared "if I die, I die - I'm not going to be controlled" when discussing Covid. In an interview with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette published last August, he also labelled face masks a "nuisance".. ." Well, it looks like the only thing to control him was the virus... 🙄

Circumnavigating the Island My original itinerary included a rental car which Bangkok Guy was going to drive, an idea he liked very much. There was no flexibility to either alter the booking nor to get a refund, so on the fourth day I collect a car which I will be returning halfway through the rental period. The things forbidden in the rental contract include smoking, animals and durian. The partial saving grace is that I can drive myself to my day-5 PCR test at Koh Samui hospital, avoiding having a taxi wait for me, the cost of which is equivalent to two days car rental. Driving on Koh Samui is very easy and my little car is the right size for the narrow roads and right-angle bends – literally a right-angle in an otherwise continuous stretch of road. After the PCR test – efficiently organized on the hospital’s tennis court – I have lunch at a very isolated beach restaurant that was recommended to me. Not a place I would have ever found on my own and excellent Thai food. I send a pic to Bangkok Guy who apart from being envious - "So Delicious" – is amused that the mild spice level is at the upper end of my tolerance. He likes confirmation of his ides fixes about Falang. My anti-clockwise circumnavigation of the island is singularly lacking in the picture postcard views which comprise one-hundred-and-ten-percent of Koh Samui according to the internet, guide books and advertisements for accommodation. Between the infinity pools of the hillside villas and the white sand beaches an ugly ring of random ribbon development encircles the entire island, excepting the South West quadrant. Think of the ugly bits of Pattaya (well, just think of Pattaya) stretched into a thin circle. I saw the villa I had originally booked and, now I understand the lay of the land, I am happy to be paying the premium for direct beach access.

There was a time when The Philippines, released from colonialism by its former master the United States, enjoyed one of the most dynamic economies in the world. It was also politically stable and seemingly a thriving democracy. By the mid-1960s, other countries in Asia were mired in their own problems. Japan was recovering from World War 2. South Korea was in a worse mess following the Korean War. Hong Kong was still a sweatshop about to be engulfed by the mainland's Cultural Revolution. Malaysia and Singapore were much too young to have developed their economies. So when the Asian Development Bank was deciding where to locate its headquarters, there was only one real option - Manila. What no one then knew was that within a few years The Philippines would start a long period of disastrous decline, headed by a murdering kleptocrat who had been voted into the Presidency in that same year - 1965. With America soon to become engulfed in its series of wars in IndoChina, Ferdinand Marcos knew his previous colonial masters needed him and the military bases he could provide - big time. They would in no way force him to accept the usual checks and balances. As power increasingly went to his head, he declared martial law in 1972. There then followed a period of plunder of the nation's wealth, extra judicial killings and a massive increase in dire poverty nationwide. Opponents were first silenced and then killed. His dreadful wife Imelda whom he created the Governor of Manila believed, or so she claimed, her job was to give the Filipino people the glamour that none could even think about when they could barely afford to feed their families. By February 1986, the Filipinos had had enough of the murdering thieving Marcoses. They booted them out in a People Power Revolution and installed in his place as President Corazon Aquino, the widow of a senator killed by Marcos. That should have been the end of the Marcoses who deserved to be consigned to oblivion. The family fled into exile in Hawaii where they plotted their return to take power again in their home country. Only Marcos himself was by now too ill and died in 1989. President Aquino allowed the rest of the family to return to The Philippines to face justice for the billions they had stolen and ensure it was returned to the state. This was a decision that many were to come to regret. Marcos' all-powerful wife was hale and hearty and his children had all been earlier installed in positions of power. All used their former cronies to build a wall of silence around their kleptomania. Alleged to have stolen up to US$10 billion, the state has so far only managed to recover little more than $3.5 billion. The body of Marcos was kept embalmed in his home province until a national burial in the Cemetery of Heros was approved by President Duterte in 2016. To escape from the law, Imelda ran for office - and won. Even today at age 83 she out of reach of the arms of the law as a Member of the House of Representatives. She remains cocooned in her fantasy world of beauty, fine art, haute couture dresses, goodness knows how many pairs of shoes - and the rock solid belief that her husband was betrayed and wronged. Why this should still be something many in the media are now talking about again is the fact that another Marcos, another crook, seems set to become the next President of the country in May. Bongbong is the couple's only son. 4 years ago he was pretty much out of favour. Thanks to Trump-like use of social media he has cultivated an almost totally different persona. He has been almost completely disassociated with his father's crimes. Now he is a clean-cut businessman promising Filipinos a great future. Sadly, memories are short and too many believe him. In a recent survey, close to half of all Filipino voters are ready to vote for the former dictator's son. Not surprisingly, the man is a liar. He studied at Oxford University where he claims he was awarded a Bachelor of Arts. In fact he failed in Economics and twice in Politics. He did not receive a degree. He enrolled in the Wharton School of Business and again failed to graduate. Back in The Philippines, his father made him Chairman of the Telecoms company Philcomsat in early1985. Despite rarely visiting the company's offices or doing any work at all, he drew a salary that was allegedly up to $97,000 per month. Since his return, he has played major part in ensuring the family's ill-gotten wealth remains hidden. He has consistently trashed those who accuse his father of his many human rights abuses. But thanks largely to social media, Bongbong the crook stands at the pinnacle of power in a country where the government is infested with corruption and where power remains vested in a small number of hugely wealthy and influential families. Marcos senior frequently claimed that he would make The Philippines the Singapore of East Asia. Lee Kwan Yew loathed Marcos and wrote of him in 2000, "a self-indulgent ageing ruler who allowed his wife and cronies to clean out the country through ingenious monopolies and put the government heavily in debt . . . Only in The Philippines could a leader like Ferdinand Marcos, who pillaged his country for over 20 years, still be considered for a national burial." Once Bongbong sits on the throne, let's be ready for all manner of pardons and the still undiscovered stolen wealth remaining hidden where it will never be discovered. It now seems clear that yet again the Filipinos will elect a ridiculous, yet highly dangerous, figure to lead it. Adapted from https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2021/12/14/what-is-behind-the-resurgence-of-the-marcos-dynasty

I enjoyed him a bit, after all he was in Rocky Horror. But, sad that he ended his life as an anti-vaxxer idiot. What a way to destroy your own legacy.

Given the current restrictions toward international arrivals (especially the ridiculous second pcr test), I'll be among those postponing my next trip (ticketed in early February) for several months. When you consider that Thailand is receiving fully vaccinated and tested tourists before they even land in the country, the additional testing requirements constitute unnecessary anxiety and expense. I'd be spending the first 5-6 days (after the first test) primarily worrying if I'm going to test positive on the second. That's not a formula for a pleasant stay. The hodgepodge of new hoops you have to jump through just to get the pass should be sufficient as long as I observe the same protocols expected of Thai citizens when out in public. The imposition of the second test could find the visitor restricted to a quarantine hotel room--or some other facility--for 10 days. Even if my visa was extended (as described in the article below), I still may be facing additional change fees or a different fare basis depending on conditions at the time. =========================== Phuket Immigration visiting those in Hotel Isolation to extend visas After the story went viral of a man being charged for an overstay because he was locked in Hotel Isolation after testing positive for Covid-19, Phuket is taking action. The Immigration Chief of Phuket is sending staff around to local hotels to make sure that people caught in a 10-day Hotel Isolation do not have their visas expire. If a traveller tests positive for Covid-19 while in Thailand, they are subject to a mandatory isolation period of 10 days, but what if their immigration stamp ends in 5? Authorities tout their new plan as a proactive step to keep people on the right side of the law, by offering this convenience they say builds trust and shows that Phuket is taking care of their tourists. The immigration Chief explained that Phuket is remaining vigilant against the spreading Omicron variant throughout the world. He also conceded that this abundance of caution can create difficult situations and inconveniences for people travelling, especially if they catch the virus while on holiday here. “During the second test on Day 5 or Day 6, many tourists are testing positive. Therefore, they have to be brought under the treatment process according to public health measures, either in ‘Hotel Quarantine’ or ‘High-Risk Contact’ quarantine. But during the quarantine period, the tourist visa period may be nearing its expiration and the tourists are unable to travel to extend the visa by themselves. Therefore, Phuket Immigration is proactive in providing visa extension services, which is convenient for tourists by coordinating with accommodation operators where tourists have been detained for a period of one week.” He said that the new hotel visit initiative from immigration will help tourists staying in over 200 properties on the island make sure that their visas are in good standing. He also observed that it was a good chance for officials to answer any questions and explain Covid-19 safety measures, something authorities were out in force in tourist hotspots doing over the past two nights. https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/phuket-immigration-visiting-those-in-hotel-isolation-to-extend-visas ======================================== The following quote from the above article poses more questions than it answers: "“During the second test on Day 5 or Day 6, many tourists are testing positive." How many is many? 5, 50, 500?

I always carry a reasonably decent decoy phone and decoy $bill/card-fold that are both essentially dispensable and in my outside lightweight full-length pants pockets where I hope a thief would consider the logical place for a pedestrian to store belongings but not, to date, any encounters such as requests or demands to have them removed from my person. I assume, possibly falsely, that a robber would not stick around long enough to inspect the contraband. The felon would quickly see some cash tucked into the cheap wallet thingy. The hope is that would be an acceptable tradeoff for my personal security and life to remain intact. My undergarment is a bathing suit or lightweight shorts with pockets where I fold up and distribute some higher denomination cash and functional credit cards. Usually at least one large enough pocket in the undergarment to conceal my true phone. Essentially I would need to be frisked to reveal these genuine valuables.

So beautifully written @CurtisD. I so much hope that all worked/works out well for you.

" Wellness fuckbox " should be next bright idea one hopes

Read this the night before: Louie, Louie… Published Thursday, January 20, 2022 at 7:21 PM Four hours ago, comedian Pauly Shore tweeted that he'd just come from a hospital in Las Vegas where he visited Louie Anderson to "say my goodbyes." Yesterday, a spokesperson for Anderson announced that Anderson was being treated for Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma which news stories described as "a common and potentially curable version of non-Hodgkin lymphoma." So either Pauly Shore is exaggerating the seriousness of Anderson's condition or we may be about to lose another very funny man. This is no time for us to be losing so many people who can make us laugh.

it may take more time than vacations themselves

From The Thaiger New Test & Go program draws huge criticism The revamped Test & Go entry scheme now requires overseas arrivals to stay at an approved hotel on day 1 and again on day 5 of their stay – and to take a PCR test on each day. They must Netflix and chill in their hotel rooms after each test, until they receive a negative result. However, what has many people scratching their heads is the fact that in between both tests, people are free to wander wherever they like. Test & Go does not require travelers to book the same hotel for days 1 and 5, or even to stay in the same province. Tourists can arrive in Bangkok on day 1 and by day 5, be in Chiang Mai for their second test and mandatory hotel stay. What is also not known is whether the government will consider infections detected on day 5 as imported… The new requirements have tourism operators concerned that tourists will be put off by the additional costs, especially the second PCR test. Ratchaporn Poolsawadee from the Tourism Association of Koh Samui says PCR tests on the island cost 2,200 baht. He wants that price cut to 1,500 baht, as otherwise, it could be a deterrent for people traveling on a budget. Meanwhile, มาริสา สุโกศล หนุนภักดี from the Thai Hotels Association says officials need to design a system for the new testing requirements prior to Test & Go resuming. She suggests that the second test should be dispensed with once the Covid situation improves. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thailand-news-today-new-test-go-program-draws-huge-criticism

I checked with my travel insurance company (UK) before my recent trip and they confirmed they would cover these costs. In their words... (if unexpectedly quarantined or advised to self-isolate whilst outside the UK)... We'll cover emergency medical treatment, extra accommodation and travel costs if you need to stay longer than expected. It didn't matter whether I actually had a positive test or not, the key was if I was mandated to do this by the authorities then I was covered. Best to check the policy details of from each insurance company to be sure.

I hear there will be a promotion, each room comes with one boy of your choice that will quarantine with you lol

this is the "boybox model" (7d) or "boy & go" (1d)

Wanted to update this information for 2022 for how this site operates during the pandemic. As others have pointed out, St Moritz is probably the closest Bogotá has to a Brasillian GP Sauna. Its reputation keeps it relatively busy today. The sauna is located in upper Chapinero on the north side of Calle 65 between Avenida Caracas and Carerra 13. The club upstairs on the second floor. Once inside, the club is made up of two floors. The main floor, off the change and shower area, is where you will find the private massage rooms. The massage boys congregate around the bar on this level and will actively solicite anyone hanging around the area. You can spot the massage boys easily in 2022 – they are obligated to wear a face mask while working – unlike the rest of the clientele. Zero masks seen during my visit, just so you know in advance. There are three private massage rooms in total, so there may be a wait for massage services. On the main level you will also find a video room (generally the Soccer channel (Fútbol) for the latest games and news) plus a small sauna and dark room that can get quite active. The showers next to the bar are often the place to get a preview of new arrivals and the massage attendants. The masajistas are generally looking for additional tips for more services beyond the standard massage. The going rate for 2022 is 65,000COP for a standard massage or 120,000COP for an “erotic” massage. The boy will be looking (and asking) for a tip above this price so do agree on what you want in advance to avoid any surprises. You may recognize them, as many also work at Gigolos House upstairs and Theatron in the Lotus Club on weekends. The second floor contains a maze, and active large spa jacuzzi (“un turco”) and some private rooms and glory holds for fun. The mix tends to run older, but I am told it can be very busy on the weekend. Cost + Hours The entry price of January 2022 is between 20K COP and 25K COP, depending on your age and event. Most days are mandatory nudity – you will be given a face towel to cover up – so if you are modest be prepared. The bar offers condom and lube but it is standard and may not be suitable for you. Strongly recommended to bring your own (you will offend no one doing so). Hours like most Saunas in Bogotá are early 1:00pm – 9:00pm daily. Afterwork (4:30pm - 6:30pm) and weekends can be very busy. Getting there St Moritz Sauna is located at Calle 65 #13 – 30 Piso Dos (Second Floor). Enter at the door and up the stairs to the entrance on the right side. https://www.google.com/maps/place/Sauna+Saint+Moritz/@4.6519897,-74.0636787,21z/data=!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x8e3f9bfd2da6cb29:0x239d635520a33914!2zQm9nb3TDoQ!3b1!8m2!3d4.7109886!4d-74.072092!3m4!1s0x8e3f9a45c2d88c3d:0xfaec468333e22129!8m2!3d4.6520549!4d-74.0635711 Entrance https://www.google.com/maps/@4.6520138,-74.0635894,3a,75y,57.08h,91.93t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sLo81okUKpG9OYjofXHE3Lw!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3DLo81okUKpG9OYjofXHE3Lw%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D73.04625%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i13312!8i6656 WhatsApp +57 319 659 6233 Social Media Instagram https://www.instagram.com/saintmoritz.bog/?hl=es Facebook https://es-la.facebook.com/saintmoritzbaths/ Twitter https://twitter.com/SaintMoritz_Bog Website https://saintmoritzbogota.com/

Prologue During Covid I have been consistently too optimistic about the probability of international travel. I repeatedly book trips only to eventually cancel them. I carry on regardless and book the next trip, but my expectations have slowly diminished, to the point that I was not really expecting to make this trip to Thailand. It was only after the e-tickets arrived that I truly believed that this trip was a Go. I should have been elated, but after the initial euphoric rush I was strangely flat. I organized the mechanics of travel down to the last detail and took steps to eliminate anything within my power that could cause problems. I imposed a self-quarantine for the seven days prior to my PCR test, excusing myself from pre-Christmas events and Christmas dinner itself. I booked a limo service to the airport as Uber have become a little less reliable. But I did not get into the usual personal preparation or have a plan of what to do other than seeing Bangkok Guy. I continued to drink and eat a little too much and not exercise enough. My mood should have been up, but pre-Christmas socializing was leaving me flat. One evening, returning home after a fabulous dinner party, the flat feeling really struck me – what was going on? I know myself well enough that if I take the time to stop and reflect I find the patterns that point to the problem. When I am flat something is weighing on my subconscious, and the trick is to identify what it is so that I can deal with it. I realized I was very concerned. Very concerned that something would prevent the trip. Very concerned that after two years of Line-only contact the chemistry between Bangkok Guy and I will not be the same. Behind the concern is the fact that Bangkok Guy is deeply under my skin. Possibly too deeply. Many things have kept me bouncing along and sane during the disruption of the last two years and my connection with Bangkok Guy is one of them. Forced separation has intensified the importance of the connection. There is no point in letting an anticipated problem which may or may not eventuate weigh you down. You need to do what you can to ensure the outcome you want and then hope for the best, but be mentally prepared for the worst and have an attractive Plan B. So I took charge of my drinking, eating and exercising. I can stroll the beach confident that I look presentable in swim shorts. I went through the Koh Samui guide and found things to see and do. For the days in Bangkok I have a list of restaurants to try and possible overnight trips. The trip is now in shape to be an excellent holiday and a great first encounter with the World after the last two years. And if the chemistry with Bangkok Guy is still good, that will be the icing on the cake. But if I am honest with myself, the icing is of more interest than the cake.

their job is not to control immigration but to have a job.

I don't need to look at Thais. We have now minus 15 Celsius and city bus had open window this morning so upon boarding promptly I closed it only to be chided by the driver that 'We have now open window policy to improve ventilation" , I'm kidding you not !!! Some idiot who probably never took the bus since finishing university ordered it , thinking that freezing to death saves us from Covid. I'm still shocked that driver was so stupid too instead of keeping quiet, after all I took only three stops and he is inside for the whole shift. No, I don't live in some operetta city or country. I'm telling you , whole world is getting stupid over covid.

I never asked. I thought it was better to focus on dealing with the situation-at-hand than getting into a bunch of questions. The poor guy clearly felt badly about it and he plans to get his second shot and then a booster so there will be no further snafus. My guess is that having screwed up his courage to get the first shot he hesitated over the second shot, and while he hesitated contracted covid. My inclination to bop an anti-vaxxer on the nose if I meet one has risen exponentially.

That almost sounds like a Jean Genet's fantasy.

Such a complex solution for a simple issue. Couldnt they just waived the overstay charge instead if u show the hotel isolation order?

Apolo … been there dump that; not appalling, but … ———— Juan Bin Bin … Bin there dump that. Don’t wanna go to there again.

I'm sticking to my Phuket sandbox plans, I feel like a day 5 test in Bangkok is too high a risk for me.

That's true If we are not willing to commit to a boy why should he be exclusively ours ?

Another hilarious decision of the Thai government. I will stay away from Thailand till all this madness is over.

Bad Buddy finished today, I expected it to be more dynamic based on the trailer but still interesting and entertaining and truth to be told , I can look at Ohm Phawat and his acting to no end. Kissing scene at end of episode 5 was great!

Yes, unfortunately it will be a choice between Marco and Pacquiao. Of course my friends living in the Vasayas are voting for Pacquiao. God help them and us who love the Philippines...

Leaving aside his being an antivaxxer, I am one of those who could never understand the appeal of Meat Loaf. To me he was just a silly oaf who could never sing in tune. If he did die of covid and has been preaching the anti-vaccine message, I have no sympathy for him.

And I would do anything for love Oh, I would do anything for love Oh, I would do anything for love But I won't do that No, I won't do that He should've done it....🤔

and he does. My sister lives in different country and when I go to see her nominal price of the ticket is roughly the same now it was 30 years ago. Then is was equivalent of about 1000 bus tickets , not the same price buys only 375 so it relatively 2/3 cheaper

The comparison with airlines is interesting and no doubt accurate. Even 15 years ago I was still buying most of my airline tickets through an agency. I remember they complained about airlines reducing their commissions which had until relatively recently been 9%. By now agency commissions must be close to 0% and the customer should have benefitted as a result.

Although I prefer to regain my wellness in Bangkok, I think this proposal is a worthy idea. Now if authorities can only come to realize that the best way to make it a reality is to make Thailand accessible as it was in 2019. 'Wellness' Sandbox touted The government is set to promote Hua Hin and Cha-am as Thailand's “Wellness Sandbox” to attract health-conscious tourists from around the world. Government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said on Friday that the Centre for Economic Situation Administration (Cesa) approved in principle the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) proposal to promote the "Thailand Wellness Sandbox" for Hua Hin district of Prachuap Khiri Khan and Cha-am district of Phetchaburi. According to the spokesman, Hua Hin and Cha-am will be touted as destinations for wellness tourism targeting tourists from neighbouring countries in Asean as well as from Europe, the Middle East, the United States and Canada. Health-related products and services in both districts will be highlighted, along with the "Thailand Riviera" campaign to attract visitors to coastal destinations in the South, Mr Thanakorn said. Efforts will be made to ensure tourists receive international-standard services, he said. Cesa also instructed TAT to consider expanding wellness promotion to other regions, Mr Thanakorn said. https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/2251671/government-to-plug-wellness-sandbox

that's cheap , I paid 3100 for required pre-departure test at PULSE clinic, still much cheaper that in cost at home ( 4600 )

for sure they did as he was popular and had his followers. It's why so called celebrities should shut up and keep their counsel to themselves

From richardbarrow.com Infection rate of international arrivals tested during their first week in Thailand: 1-20 January: 3.52% (139,633) Test & Go: 3.77% Sandbox: 3.78% Quarantine: 2.16% ===================================== Bangkok Airways to fly twice daily sealed-route Bangkok-Phuket flights from 1 February Bangkok, 21 January, 2022 – Starting from 1 February, 2022, Bangkok Airways will operate two special sealed-route flights per day from Bangkok to Phuket in support of the reintroduction of the Sandbox Extension programme. The two services – one at midday and the other in the early evening – will be operated by an ATR72-600 aircraft. Flight PG5275 will depart from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport at 12.00 Hrs. and arrive at Phuket International Airport at 14.05 Hrs., while Flight PG5279 will depart Suvarnabhumi Airport at 17.10 Hrs. and arrive at Phuket at 19.15 Hrs. The introduction of the two daily Bangkok to Phuket flights coincides with the 1 February, 2022 resumption of the Sandbox Extension programme between Phuket, Phang-Nga, Krabi, and Surat Thani (Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao), whereby Sandbox travellers can travel within these destinations during their first 7 days in Thailand and can stay in 3 different hotels if they so wish. Thailand’s Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) has also approved the resumption of the Exemption from Quarantine (TEST & GO) entry scheme and the reopening of Bang Lamung, Pattaya, Si Racha, Si Chang, and Sattahip – only Na Jomtien and Bang Saray – in Chon Buri, and Ko Chang in Trat as Sandbox destinations – also effective from 1 February, 2022. This means that from 1 February, 2022, fully vaccinated travellers from any country around the world can apply for a TEST & GO Thailand Pass up to 60 days in advance. Existing rules under the scheme remain unchanged, additional requirements have been introduced to ensure stringent COVID-19 precautions. Meanwhile, fully vaccinated travellers from overseas who are planning to travel to Thailand under the Sandbox programme can choose to undergo their first 7 days in either Krabi, Phang-Na, Phuket, Surat Thani (Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao), Chon Buri (Bang Lamung, Pattaya, Si Racha, Si Chang, and Sattahip – only Na Jomtien and Bang Saray), and Trat (Ko Chang). https://www.tatnews.org/2022/01/bangkok-airways-to-fly-twice-daily-sealed-route-bangkok-phuket-flights-from-1-february-2022/

When large, international banks opened their operations in Thailand, and other foreign countries, two things were different than today: most banking was conducted in person and on-line banking was generally non-existent or in its infancy. There was a not dissimilar evolution in the international airline industry. Facilitated by code-sharing and network affiliations, economies of scale changed over time. This allowed carriers to offer seamless flights involving other carriers. Code sharing did for the airlines what ATM networks did for banking.

I'm guessing AXA would be one of the first to meet the requirements https://www.axa.co.th/en/axa-sawasdee-thailand-travel-insurance The wording from the CCSA is so vague though, there's no chance an insurance company would ever say "all contingencies".

According to the Thaiger, "The CCSA also announced that the compulsory insurance policies will need to cover ALL contingencies if you happen to test positive, including your additional accommodation costs". I assume that currently no such insurance policy exists yet? I hate insurance companies. I have an annual travel health insurance that covered all I needed for my last visit to Thailand, but it was impossible to get a confirmation that clearly states the coverage in a way the CCSA asked for. Not having the time to experiment with Thailand Pass rejections I decided to buy the Thai one recommended by the embassy.

Yes, just be extremely careful. I can easily mingle, and never wear anything expensive, anything that could make me a tempting prey. And yet, I was and am very cautious. If you look as an outsider and/or wear anything expensive, do not go alone, or even better just do not go to seedy places. We may be disregarding an important circumstance. When I hang out in Praça da República I was in my mid 20s, very close to the boys' age. As now I am an older gentleman (although unbelievably sexy), I would be extra cautious when exploring these places.

Pass PCR Test, Will Travel I pass the first of four PCR tests, don my N95 mask and away! After allowing for empty seats to separate passengers, both my flights are fairly full, in contrast to the terminals which are ghost towns. No taxiing delays with a que of one for the first flight and two for the second. Passengers all following covid safety protocols. I had been warned that my ears would ache from the N95 mask and this was very true, but the only negative until the leg to Koh Samui. Thai health and immigration were very pleasant and efficient and it took only around 40 minutes from disembarkation to being seated in the departure gate for the five hour wait for the official quarantine connecting flight. The health officials in Koh Samui were also very efficient, so the whole process of checking papers to record who sat where on the plane, getting the PCR test and getting into the hotel’s single-party transport went smoothly. Bangkok Airways, not so much efficient. The flight is supposed to be a quarantine one. However, the plane was not parked at the gate but some distance away. To get there we crowd into a bus, not a hope of distancing. Long drive, then a wait inside the bus until we can board. Among my fellow passengers were a group who were somewhat lax in masking, as though the mask itself was a powerful talisman regardless of how it was worn. I avoided them in the lounge, but no hope of doing so in the bus or on the small plane. Grrrr….. Efficiency resumed at my hotel. They had me pre-register on-line a few days before arrival. On arrival I was taken directly to the room, shown how to get the room service menu from the TV and told to stay in the room until my test results arrived around 8am the next morning. I was not given a key, so if I left the room it would be obvious as I could not get back in, in theory. In practice my hosts had left me access to my private terrace from which I could slip directly into the pool and swim to freedom. Not wanting to abuse their hospitality or be a selfish idiot I content myself on the terrace with sunshine, fresh air, the smell of flowers, excellent Thai food and a Chang beer.

A Very Bumpy Start This trip was booked back in June based solely on vague optimism that ‘things will improve’. The January timing was a matter of habit. When test-and-go was announced I lacked Vinapu’s prescience and instead of going immediately kept to the original schedule. Traveling in the Time of Covid it should come as no surprise that this trip has been the most difficult trip to keep on the rails that I have ever experienced. The airline canceled all flights to Thailand and I had to re-book. I went through the hoops of completing all the ThaiPass paperwork. To be sure of passing the first of four PCR tests I withdrew from Christmas celebrations. Double-guessing the Thai Government’s announcement that it was considering suspending Test-and-Go, I re-booked all the accommodation and internal flights, at some cost. The day I am due to leave I lie in bed, dawn light coming around the edges of the curtains, and Bangkok Guy pings me on Line. He has developed the habit of pinging me in the morning if he wants to talk as he knows I am up early, but this is a little early. “There is a Big Problem”. On the bright side, his English is coming along. He used the indefinite article. When he answers my call he looks serious and without talking faces his phone toward his wrist. There is an intravenous drip attachment. Back to his face and, while he is looking good, I see he is in bed and the pillow has a blue hospital paper cover. He has Covid. It seems to be a moderate case. He looks good, a cough but no problems breathing, and once we talk his smile is as bright as ever. His personality is also unaffected. His main concern is not his health but the cost of cancelations as he will not be out of quarantine in time to join me on Koh Samui. A leading indicator that I have crossed the line from under-the-weather to truly ill is the loss of my vanity. For Bangkok Guy it would be the loss of frugality. With his frugality intact he is on the right side of the health line. However, the third time I tell him he is looking good – a mechanical reassurance to myself as much as to him – he corrects me. “Outside look good, inside not good”. He is sick enough to be feeling it. He is happy that I am still coming and that we will eventually meet in Bangkok. He will get out of the ten-day quarantine the day before I arrive in Bangkok from Koh Samui and I offer to extend our hotel booking so he can go there, be comfortable and have room service. He is not sure. In case Omicron gathered speed, in Bangkok I re-booked into a hotel with a lot of outdoor space by the river which, if necessary, we can use as a resort and use the river to get around rather than the Sky Train or Metro. I have four PCR tests to pass during the trip and failing any of the three in Thailand will land me in hospital for ten days, which I have no intention of letting happen, so crowded spaces are verboten. The hotel is very high end (I got an attractive deal) and I suspect Bangkok Guy is not comfortable with the idea of being there alone. I will play this by ear and possibly leave Koh Samui early (and expensively as it is too late to alter the reservation).

The city, the geography, and the local culture are amazing. If you look in my blog, there are detailed reports about the saunas. I went for Christmas/NY, it was hot as hell and I got sick, and yet had a great time. It is a city that I always keep as a possible destination, and to stay there for a few months once I am retired.

As I see it, the problem is one not uncommon throughout much of Asia. There is an assumption that one man one vote is the solution for democratic rule. That presumably is what the American colonial power assumed when it drew up the Constitution before leaving the The Philippines. Prior to to the US taking over as the colonial power, the country's Constitution had been based on the French model. That Constitution was immediately changed and in 1935, aware that it would eventually have to give the country independence, a new Constitution was adopted based almost exclusively on that of the USA. It has been changed since, but the earlier Constitution established the democratic principles by which the country would initially govern itself. It did put in place the institutions essential to a functioning democracy. And it is true that for a while the judiciary was independent and the first Presidents were acclaimed for their trusteeship of the post, particularly Ramon Magsaysay and Diosdado Macapagal. Then came Marcos, martial law and the descent. It is tempting to call Filipinos politically naive. As @TMax points out, Filipinos are addicted far more to popularity than policies. I cannot believe that the actor Joseph Estrada would have been elected in any other country. Even Duterte at the time of his election would only have had an outside chance - although with right wing nationalism sweeping much of the world, that might not be the case today. If Bongbong Marcos wins, as seems likely, it will largely be because he comes from one of the wealthiest families in the country and the fake history that is proving so successful in sanitising his father and mother's crimes. But I forgot in my earlier post to mention the dark horse. Another popular figure is in the race - Manny Pacquiao. Although he happens to be a member of parliament, he is a boxer who became famous because of his pugilistic exploits around the world. He is virtually worshipped in the country. He is also a noted homophobe. He has continually called homosexuals "worse than animals". He is also a bible thumper. So it would seem to this outsider that the choice is between one of two evils. I suspect Pacquiao will tamper less with the country's government. Marcos is the real danger man because he knows exactly how the country is run and knows exactly where his family's ghosts are hidden. So much for democracy!

I would stay in Republica, it is super gay! Republica has a concentration of gay bars where guys congregate on the street for a huge gay hangout Friday-Sunday. In addition to bars there are 2 video cabins with hustlers and it's not too far from Lagoa (8 minutes by car/ 20 minutes by foot). I usually choose an Airbnb at the Setin Downtown in Republica. It's the tallest building with nice amenities, and as long as you let the hosts know your bringing a guest you should be fine. For a whole month you can get rooms for $500-800 USD. It's so popular I see guys posting pictures of the pool on Instagram because it has a great rooftop pool with a view.